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January HVAC Checklist - Keep Your Systems Running Smoothly
Posted On: January 6, 2026
January is often the coldest and most demanding month for HVAC systems in Ontario.
With heating systems running almost nonstop, this is when small issues can turn into costly breakdowns if left unchecked.
A simple January HVAC checklist can help homeowners maintain comfort, improve efficiency, and avoid unexpected repairs during the heart of winter.
Here’s what every homeowner should focus on in January to keep their HVAC system operating reliably.
Replace or Clean Your Air Filter
Your HVAC system works harder in winter, and dirty air filters restrict airflow, forcing the system to use more energy.
In January, homeowners should:
Check filters monthly
Replace disposable filters or clean reusable ones
Use the correct filter size and rating recommended for your system
Clean filters improve airflow, efficiency, and indoor air quality.
Check Thermostat Settings
Cold weather often leads homeowners to constantly adjust thermostat settings, which can increase energy usage.
Best practices include:
Keeping a consistent temperature
Avoiding frequent manual changes
Using programmable or smart thermostat schedules
Stable settings help your HVAC system run efficiently while maintaining comfort.
Inspect Vents and Registers
Blocked or closed vents reduce airflow and strain your heating system.
In January:
Ensure all vents are open and unobstructed
Move furniture, rugs, or curtains away from registers
Check for weak airflow that could signal a problem
Balanced airflow helps maintain even temperatures throughout your home.
Listen for Unusual Noises
January is the time to pay attention to how your system sounds.
New or unusual noises can indicate developing issues.
Watch for:
Rattling or buzzing sounds
Grinding or squealing noises
Loud cycling or short run times
Catching problems early can prevent mid-winter breakdowns.
Monitor Indoor Humidity Levels
Winter heating can dry out indoor air, leading to discomfort and potential health issues.
In January:
Monitor humidity levels
Consider using a humidifier if air feels dry
Watch for excess dryness or static buildup
Balanced humidity improves comfort and protects wood furniture and flooring.
Clear Snow and Ice from Outdoor Units
If your home uses a heat pump, the outdoor unit must stay clear of snow and ice.
Homeowners should:
Gently remove snow buildup after storms
Keep at least two feet of clearance around the unit
Avoid chipping ice with sharp tools
Proper airflow ensures efficient winter operation.
Check Carbon Monoxide Detectors
For homes with fuel-burning appliances, January is a critical time to confirm safety systems are working.
Be sure to:
Test carbon monoxide detectors
Replace batteries if needed
Ensure detectors are installed on every level of the home
This step is essential for winter safety.
Schedule Mid-Winter HVAC Maintenance
January is a good time to schedule a professional system check—especially if maintenance was missed earlier in the season.
A professional inspection can:
Identify wear or airflow issues
Improve system efficiency
Reduce the risk of emergency repairs
Extend equipment lifespan Stay Comfortable and Protected This January
A little attention goes a long way during Ontario’s coldest month.
Following this January HVAC checklist helps ensure your system runs efficiently, keeps your home warm, and avoids unexpected disruptions.
For homeowners in the Durham Region and Toronto, Twintech Heating & Cooling offers professional HVAC inspections, maintenance, and repairs to keep your system performing reliably all winter long.
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See What Our Customers Are Saying:
May 16, 2021
Appreciated a quick response to my request. Dave and Greg were very professional and made the experience seamless.
Feb 1, 2021
Very professional through the entire process. Installation and removel was done on a sloppy winter day, they put down runners on the floors and stairs and when they left, there wasn;t any sign of someone being in our house. Furnace works great as promised.
Feb 1, 2021
Dave was very pleasant to deal with and Twintech responded quickly when our furnace needed to be replaced ASAP. Installation was done on time and the crew were neat and tidy. We now have a great furnace that suits the needs of our family.
Feb 1, 2021
When your furnace kicks in over the holidays and you're not sure where to turn.. I'm so thankful that this company returned my phone call. I appreciated their transparency and clarity which allowed me to make an informed decision. With various quotes thrown at you, it can be difficult to make the right decision and trust the solutions offered by different companies. TwinTech spoke the truth and delivered on their word. Neat, timely and clean service; the peace of mind I needed during a very cold holiday season. I highly recommend them!
Feb 1, 2021
Pulling a old unit out and installing a modern heating system! Required drilling holes in the wall for the newer pipes. We went from 70% (I am willing to bet it was far less due to lack of maintenance and just old) to 96% newer . It now feels warmer and more pressure and we use to run extra heaters and feel as though they are not necessary!
Feb 1, 2021
I received three quotes before deciding to choose Twintech. Dave's prices was much more reasonable than the competitors. I most appreciated their honest recommendations. Others tried to oversell their products and services. Thank you Dave!
Feb 1, 2021
They had the best price and did a great job on the installation. Recommend them to anyone.
Feb 1, 2021
It was a amazing and professional high quality job
Friendly and very helpful representatives
Thank you for understanding my concern
And explain very well
Overall we pleased with your service
Tanks
May 15, 2020
My 19 year old furnace stopped working when the cold weather hit in November, and I was left without heat. I interviewed several companies and found TWINTECH HEATING and COOLING to be very knowledgeable, quick to respond to my inquiries and very competitively priced.
Dave provided all of the information and pricing ahead of time and set up the appointment for the installation. Greg and Mitch arrived on time to do the installation and worked quickly and efficiently to complete the job.
After the completion of the installation, Dave followed up to ensure that everything was working well and that I didn't have any concerns.
Overall, this was a low-stress and flawless experience from start to finish. I would highly recommend TWINTECH HEATING and COOLING to anyone that requires a new furnace.
May 14, 2020
Our 20 year old furnace broke down during the first cold weekend this past November and our usual HVAC company never returned our phone call. Their loss, missing out on a sale since we didn't want to spend much fixing an old furnace and our 40 year old air conditioner was also long overdue for replacement. We proceeded in obtaining three different quotes for furnace and air conditioner replacement, and proceeded with the one we received from Twintech.
Dave was friendly, knowledgable and accommodating to our schedule and provided with us with a price that fell in the middle of the three quotes that we had. We felt that the Amana furnace and air conditioner he quoted us on were the best products and value offered to us and felt most comfortable with the professionalism and reputation of Twintech.
Greg, Grant and Mitch were at our house for installation the day after we decided to proceed. The guys were friendly and informative, the job was completed efficiently and workmanship appears excellent. Our house is certainly much more comfortable with the new two-stage variable speed Amana furnace compared to the old clunker! And, we're looking forward to enjoying the new air conditioner once summer rolls around again. Thanks Twintech!
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