Winter in Reno and Sparks can bring freezing nights, icy mornings, and heavy snowstorms. Before temperatures drop, make sure to follow the Ultimate Winter HVAC Checklist for Reno to ensure your home’s HVAC system is ready.
Don’t wait until your furnace fails on a cold January night. Prepare early, stay safe, and enjoy comfort all season long.
Here’s your ultimate HVAC winter checklist made just for Reno and Sparks homeowners.
✅ 1. Replace Your Air Filter
Start with the easiest task—your air filter. A dirty filter blocks airflow and reduces efficiency.
Replace it every 1–3 months, especially in winter when you use your furnace daily.
This simple step keeps your system running smoother and your air cleaner.
✅ 2. Check Your Thermostat Settings
Make sure your thermostat works properly before cold weather arrives.
Set it to “heat” mode and test it by raising the temperature.
If your furnace doesn’t turn on, it may need a professional inspection.
Also, consider upgrading to a programmable or smart thermostat.
These let you schedule heat by time of day and save energy in the process.
Continue reading our Ultimate Winter HVAC Checklist for Reno Homeowners below to ensure your system is running at its peak!
✅ 3. Schedule a Furnace Tune-Up
Furnace tune-ups are essential before every winter in Reno or Sparks.
Our region’s wide temperature swings put extra strain on heating systems.
A tune-up includes inspecting burners, cleaning components, testing safety switches, and checking for carbon monoxide leaks.
This ensures your system works safely and efficiently all season long.
✅ 4. Check for Strange Noises or Smells
Listen for rattling, banging, or whistling sounds when your furnace runs.
Unusual noises often signal worn parts or airflow problems.
If you smell something burning or sour, shut the system off and call a professional.
Early repairs prevent small problems from becoming expensive breakdowns.
✅ 5. Clear Around the Furnace
Don’t store boxes, paint cans, or laundry near your furnace.
These create a fire hazard and can block airflow.
Give your furnace at least 3 feet of clear space on all sides.
✅ 6. Seal Air Leaks Around Windows and Doors
Even a high-efficiency furnace can’t keep up if heat escapes through gaps.
Seal around windows and doors using weatherstripping or caulk.
Insulated curtains and door sweeps can also make a big difference in energy savings.
✅ 7. Open and Clean All Vents
Walk through your home and check all supply and return vents.
Make sure they’re open and not blocked by furniture or rugs.
Use a vacuum or duster to remove built-up dirt or pet hair.
Unobstructed vents keep air moving freely and reduce system strain.
✅ 8. Test Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Furnaces can emit carbon monoxide if something malfunctions.
That’s why every Reno or Sparks home with a gas furnace should have working CO detectors.
Test them monthly and replace the batteries every six months.
This small step can save lives.
✅ 9. Consider a Humidifier
Reno winters are dry. This can cause static shocks, cracked skin, and dry sinuses.
Adding a whole-home humidifier helps maintain indoor comfort.
It also protects wood floors and furniture from cracking or warping.
✅ 10. Insulate Ductwork in Unconditioned Spaces
Do you have ductwork in an attic, crawl space, or garage?
Insulating those ducts prevents heat loss and improves efficiency.
If ducts are leaky or uninsulated, warm air escapes before reaching your living space.
✅ 11. Know When to Call for Help
If your system runs non-stop, turns on and off quickly, or doesn’t heat evenly, don’t wait.
Call a local HVAC company in Reno or Sparks to inspect the issue.
Quick repairs can prevent full system failure and reduce costs.
Why Choose Paramount Heating and Air Conditioning?
Reno and Sparks families trust Paramount because we’re different from the big-name competitors.
- ✅ We’re locally owned and operated. Unlike many large HVAC companies in the area, we don’t send your money out of state to fund private equity groups.
- ✅ We’re a small, family-run business. Our team lives right here in Reno and cares about our community.
- ✅ Trusted by thousands. Paramount is the go-to choice for homeowners who want honest service and dependable results.
- ✅ Fast response, fair prices. We don’t upsell or overpromise—we solve the problem with care.
- ✅ We specialize in furnace repair and winter tune-ups. No job is too big or small for our skilled team.
Whether it’s a broken furnace or you just need a yearly tune-up, we’re ready to help.
Learn more about Paramount Heating and Air Conditioning and why many home and business owners trust our team of technicians to take care of their HVAC needs by clicking the button below!
Extra Tip for the Ultimate Winter HVAC Checklist: Book Early and Stay Ahead
Reno and Sparks HVAC companies get booked solid in late fall and early winter.
Don’t wait until the first cold snap. Book your furnace maintenance or repair now to avoid delays.
Also, consider signing up for a maintenance plan. These plans include yearly tune-ups and discounts on repairs.
It’s a great way to stay ahead and keep your HVAC system in peak shape year-round.
Need Emergency Service?
Furnace quit on the coldest night of the year? Don’t worry—we offer emergency heating repair across Reno and Sparks.
We’re fast, friendly, and show up when it matters most.
Stay Warm with Paramount
Winter doesn’t wait, and neither should you. A reliable, efficient heating system keeps your family safe and cozy.
By following this winter HVAC checklist, you can avoid costly surprises and enjoy comfort all season long.
Call Paramount Heating and Air Conditioning at (775) 309-4222 or click the button below to schedule your tune-up today.
