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Winter Prep Guide: Protecting Your HVAC System
When the first cold snap hits Calgary, HVAC companies get slammed — and you don’t want to be one of the hundreds calling with “no heat.”
The good news? Most winter breakdowns can be prevented with a few quick pre-season checks and a little attention before the deep freeze sets in.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to protect your furnace, ductwork, and thermostat from early failure, improve airflow, and make sure your system is ready to handle -30°C without a problem.
Spend 20 minutes now — save a week of waiting later.
Why Winter Prep Matters (Especially in Calgary)
-30°C outside. Snow drifting into your driveway. And suddenly… silence. Your furnace just tapped out.
That's not when you want to think about maintenance. Winter prep is all about catching small issues before they turn into major breakdowns—because when the cold hits, every HVAC company in Calgary is booked solid.
Here's your plain-English homeowner guide to winter-proofing your HVAC.
Change Your Filter (Yes, Already)
The #1 cause of furnace strain in winter is a clogged filter.
1
Swap it before the cold hits
Use MERV 8–12 for balance.
2
Mark the install date
Write it right on the frame.
3
Check monthly in problem areas
In wildfire or dusty areas, check monthly.

Pro tip: A dirty filter can literally shut down your furnace when safety switches trip.
Check the Thermostat & Clear Intake & Exhaust Pipes
Thermostat Maintenance
  • Replace batteries (most people forget until January).
  • Test both heat and fan modes.
  • If you've got a smart thermostat, update schedules for winter comfort.
Bonus: Lower the "sleep" setting slightly—humid Calgary winters feel warmer at lower temps with proper RH.
Intake & Exhaust Pipes
High-efficiency furnaces (90%+) vent through plastic pipes.
  • Make sure they're clear of leaves, dirt, and spider webs now.
  • In winter, keep them free of snow and ice.
  • Blocked vents = no heat, no exceptions.
Calgary-specific: Snow drifts + chinooks can bury pipes overnight. Keep a shovel handy.
Inspect the Outdoor AC/Heat Pump
If you've got central AC or a heat pump:
01
Clean the outdoor coil
Hose down the outdoor coil to clear dirt.
02
Cover properly
Cover the top (not sides) of AC units to keep snow out.
03
Shut off breaker
Shut off breaker if not using heat pump in winter.
Test Run the Furnace Early
Don't wait until -20°C to find out it doesn't fire.
Early Test
Switch to "heat" on a cool fall day.
Listen Carefully
Listen for unusual bangs, rattles, or smells.
Book Service Early
If it short cycles or struggles, book service before the rush.
Check Humidifier Settings & Inspect Ductwork
Humidifier Settings
Winter air in Calgary = desert dry.
  • Open the bypass damper (if applicable).
  • Replace the humidifier pad.
  • Set humidity to 30–35% (higher risks window condensation).
Comfort hack: Proper humidity makes 20°C feel like 22°C—cheaper heating bill, fewer nosebleeds.
Ductwork & Vents
  • Vacuum dust from supply and return vents.
  • Ensure furniture/rugs aren't blocking airflow.
  • Look for disconnected joints in unfinished basements.
Leaky ducts = 20–30% efficiency loss (aka money flying into your walls).
Safety First – CO & Smoke Detectors
Replace Batteries
Replace batteries in CO and smoke detectors.
Strategic Placement
Place CO detector near bedrooms and near furnace area.
Test Alarms
Test alarms before the first big cold snap.
Emergency Supplies & Professional Tune-Up
Emergency Supplies Checklist
Because breakdowns do happen:
  • Space heater (rated safe, used sparingly).
  • Extra blankets and plastic window film.
  • Service company number saved in your phone.
Professional Tune-Up – Worth It?
Yes. A pro tune-up can:
  • Check gas pressure & combustion
  • Inspect heat exchanger for cracks
  • Verify safety switches and flame sensors
  • Clean burners & blowers
Cost: ~$120–$180. Peace of mind: priceless when the first cold warning hits.
Calgary-Specific Hazards & When to Call a Pro
Calgary-Specific Winter Hazards
  • Chinooks: Rapid freeze-thaw cycles can ice up vents overnight.
  • Wildfire ash residue: Summer debris can clog filters faster than expected.
  • Dry cold: Humidity plummets, stressing wood, electronics, and lungs.
Safe DIY Checklist
  • Change filter
  • Check thermostat & batteries
  • Test furnace early
  • Clear intake/exhaust vents
  • Prep humidifier
  • Vacuum ducts & vents
  • Stock emergency gear
Stop here. Gas, combustion, and electrical checks = professional only.
When to Call a Pro
  • Strange smells (gas, burning, rotten eggs)
  • Loud banging/whistling noises from furnace
  • Furnace short cycling (on/off every few minutes)
  • Yellow flames instead of blue (dangerous combustion issue)
  • Repeated tripped breakers
Conclusion: Prep Now, Chill Later
Winter HVAC prep isn't complicated—it's filters, vents, humidifiers, and a quick test run. Spend an hour now and you'll avoid a $500 service call during the coldest week of the year.
In Calgary's climate, proactive beats reactive every time.
About HVACHELP.pro: Your Calgary HVAC Resource
Navigating the complexities of home heating and cooling, especially in Calgary's demanding climate, can be daunting. HVACHELP.pro is dedicated to empowering Calgary homeowners with the knowledge and tools they need to maintain comfortable, efficient, and safe indoor environments year-round. Our platform provides practical, local HVAC tips, comprehensive seasonal checklists, and expert advice specifically tailored for Alberta’s unique weather conditions.
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