Winters in Los Angeles do not look like harsh snowstorms or freezing rain, but they still bring their own kind of cold. Early mornings can feel sharp, and once the sun goes down, the chill can settle in fast. Since most people use heating less often throughout the year, it is easy to overlook the system until it is truly needed.
Getting ahead of the cold is much easier than waiting for a mid-December repair, as heating and AC issues can arise quickly when systems go unused. Just as people adjust their winter wardrobe, homes need tweaking too. A little preparation can make a big difference when colder days set in. Season Control Heating and Air Conditioning has assisted Los Angeles homeowners with heating and cooling repair and maintenance for over 20 years, so we understand how swiftly winter problems can surface when equipment sits idle.
Check Your Thermostat Settings
Before January’s cold sets in, test your thermostat. Some systems retain their summer settings, which can cause heating issues. We always take a few minutes to:
- Change the system setting from “cool” to “heat” and ensure the screen responds
- Increase the temperature a couple of degrees and listen for the heater to start
- Check or swap out the thermostat batteries if there is any screen flicker or delay
Homes with older thermostats may be unpredictable; if they respond slowly or if settings reset on their own, it might be time for an upgrade, especially with today’s smart options. The primary goal is to confirm your heater turns on when requested, providing comfort on cold nights.
Clear Vents and Replace Air Filters
When warm air cannot circulate freely through your home, your heater must work harder, causing extra strain and noise while reducing comfort. One simple step is to check every room to ensure furniture or rugs do not block the vents.
Filters collect dust, lint, and particles before air moves through the system. When filters become clogged, the system struggles to push air freely, leading to stuffy rooms and inadequate warmth. At Season Control, our maintenance visits include replacing standard filters and reviewing the rest of the HVAC system to keep Los Angeles homes comfortable and efficient.
We usually recommend:
- Replacing your filter every couple of months, or more frequently in case of construction or high foot traffic
- Choosing clean, well-fitting filters that match your system’s requirements
- Avoiding reusable filters unless they meet your indoor air quality goals
Do not underestimate how much easier your system works when airflow is unobstructed. Clean filters help everything move more smoothly without using extra energy.
Listen for Odd Noises or Smells When You Turn on the Heat
The initial runs of the heater in winter can be revealing. If you hear loud banging, popping, or grinding, something may be worn or loose from past use. A slightly dusty smell for a few minutes is normal after months of inactivity. However, a persistent strong burning odor or a musty smell is not normal. Repeated or worsening sounds are a warning sign and indicate that professional help should be sought early, rather than waiting for a complete system failure on a cold night.
Schedule a Professional Inspection
Los Angeles homes vary greatly. Some feature outdated ductwork that has never been updated, while others experience uneven heating from room to room. A professional can detect these patterns and inspect areas that are not easily visible. Getting an inspection before winter is in full swing gives you added peace of mind. We focus on safe operation, secure connections, and clean components, ensuring that small issues do not develop into big problems.
A well-maintained system copes more effectively with sudden temperature drops, providing immediate heat when levels fall overnight. Scheduling a visit ahead of time is best before issues arise. Our annual membership plans include two maintenance visits per year, priority appointments, and discounts on HVAC repairs for Los Angeles homeowners who want reliable heating care in place before the chill sets in.
Keep Outdoor Units and Areas Around the Heater Clean
A common oversight is neglecting to clear space around outdoor units like AC condensers or heat pumps, which often collect leaves, dirt, and trash around their base. Indoor areas where furnaces reside, such as closets or utility rooms, can also accumulate dust, which might drift into the system or build up near pilot lights, posing safety risks.
Here are a few things we check:
- Trim plants and rake debris near outdoor systems
- Wipe away dust or cobwebs around intake vents, registers, or closets housing the heater
- Remove any boxes or storage items crowding indoor equipment
Clearing space helps the equipment work without strain and makes future inspections or service visits much easier.
Why a Little Preparation Goes a Long Way
Preparing for an LA winter does not mean bracing for a snowstorm; it means staying ahead of unexpected cool nights and damp air. When your system runs efficiently, your days feel smoother and your nights are warmer. Every small step, from replacing a filter to monitoring for odd noises, can prevent larger problems and lengthy repair waits. Addressing issues early, or ideally preventing them, keeps your comfort steady no matter how the weather changes.
The goal is not just to have heat but to have the assurance that your system will work reliably when needed. A little effort now means a great deal of comfort later.
Even with mild winters, heating system problems can emerge quickly if the setup is neglected. If your heater seems off or efficient performance declines, it might be time to check for minor issues before they grow. We advocate for routine maintenance, as nothing is more important than your comfort. If you need help with quick, reliable heating and AC repair, we are here to get things back on track. Call Season Control Heating and Air Conditioning today to schedule your appointment.
