[BACK]
January HVAC Checklist - Keep Your Systems Running Smoothly

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.
This is the second time we have had Twintech to our house. A couple of summers ago they were in for an issue with our air conditioning. This time it was our furnace having an issue. It was shutting off randomly and not coming back on. Greg came right away and took the time to investigate thoroughly and explain what was going with the furnace. Both times I have been thoroughly impressed with their speed, customer service, and quality of work. I HIGHLY recommend Twintech.
Extremely happy.
So we were in no rush to replace our old units and took the time to do some research and get a number of quotes.
Twintech came in at around the middle of the pack for price but what convinced us to go with them was Bob, the representative that came to our house. Bob was by far the most professional of all the reps that we met with. He took the time to explain everything, what would work best for us and why. He really did seem very knowledgeable and enthusiastic about his stuff.
As promised on the day of install the crew showed up on time and got to work with minimal impact on us
..they were professional, clean, tidy and got the system up and running ahead of schedule...they made a couple of adjustments to the system to optimize it for our house.
The crew left the house clean and tidy.
Bob the rep showed up to check in and give us a few tips ..
It's been a week since install and all is good.
Our overall experience with Twintech has been excellent from start to finish and I wouldn't hesitate to recommend them.
Thank u.
It was a refreshing experience interacting with the Twintech team. From Bob, the sales consultant, who articulated in layman's terms all the options available and reasons for making any selection. This was done without the prevailing pressure tactics so commonplace today.
Before proceeding Mitch, the technician, at our request conducted a service check on our 30 yr old furnace. His report was positive indicating no urgency to replace it. Again no pressure tactics.
Three days after first meeting with Bob, the installation team of Greg and
Spencer completed the installation within the planned time frame.
A very professional, courteous and transparent team which delivered on their promise. I highly recommend Twintech.
Initial contact with sales resulted in an immediate response, which led to a timely installation. Both sales and installers were all very professional. I have no hesitation in recommending TWINTECH.
I had a great experience with TwinTech. The company offered a reasonable quote, and performed a quick and clean installation. The installer Greg was experienced, professional and courteous. He explained the services he performed and gave recommendations on maintain the new furnace.
The salesman Bob was honest
and professional and educated me on how to achieve optimal performance.
All communication from them was quick and they came the following day. I was pleased with the service and would recommend them.
From quote, to installation, to follow up, Twintech provided excellent service. I would highly recommended their services.
I had a really great experience with these guys. The salesman Bob was clearly very knowledgeable about everything to do with heating and cooling a home, spent a lot of time with us going over the details of the job, never rushed us and came back after the install to make sure we were happy. The installation crew was excellent, they covered the floors all the way from outside down to the basement furnace room, kept the place clean, got the work done on time and were very friendly. Ive got 15 years in the contracting/ construction industry and these guys are one of the most professional companys Ive dealt with. Great company!
Had great service and clean-up was good. Was happy with my salesman. They were very friendly and helpful. I needed a new furnace as our was over 20 years old. The furnace and air-conditioner work great and they are very quiet. I am very pleased with the service and product I received.
Met with Dave for the sales process and he was great about explaining and going over everything to us. The install happened very quickly and the team were super professional and friendly. We are very happy with this company and their services and we definitely recommend them to others. Thankful my sister recommended them to me!
Reviews for Twintech were good, and they did not disappoint. After an initial visit to discuss the suitable AC unit for replacement, an installation date was available in just a couple of days, and everything was installed without a hitch. Highly recommended
Related Links:
pickering hvac prices, oshawa hvac furnaces, ajax hvac repair, hvac repairs, pickering hvac furnace, hvac prices, home hvac, heat pump hvac system, hvac furnace, hvac contractors, hvac repair service, commercial-hvac-service,
We are very happy to recommend this company to everyone. Our furnace broke down on Sunday morning. We phoned them and before noon Grant the owner showed up. He worked on the furnace for about a hour not wanting to give up to fix the problem. The furnace was 17 years old. I was the one talking about replacing it. End result was the next day it was all done. On the Sunday Bob came over with heaters to warm up the house. We decided to replace the water heater at the same time. Thanks Grant for the excellent work. Thumbs up.
Right on time. Explained how to work the HRV in a different way so the house would not be so dry. Changed my whole house water filter for me as well. Friendly, helpful, caring service!
Very pleased with the professional service that TwinTech Heating and Cooling provided in replacing my furnace. I got several quotes from different service providers. Their price was excellent and they explained the features very well. We are very glad we went with TwinTech and highly recommend their services.
We were new homeowners in need of a second opinion. TwinTech Heating & Cooling were Amazing and professional. Very knowledgeable and great service all around. Recommend to anyone looking for honest and reliable services. Treated with respect and care. Thank you Greg, Mitch and Bob!
TwinTech is an excellent and honest company! I called them for a second opinion after being told by another company that I needed to replace my furnace. Turns out this was not the case at all! I did not need a new furnace. TwinTech did not push to make an unnecessary sale and saved me from a huge expense. Bob and Mitch were extremely professional and above all honest! I definitely recommend TwinTech!
Duct cleaning has been quite popular in the past few years with commercial cleaning services happening everywhere. But really, is this service worth the hype or is it just a really good scamIn this post, we aim to provide you with information that c
Read MoreYes, it is often possible to upgrade a furnace unit to improve its performance, energy efficiency, and features. Here are some common upgrades that you might consider: High-Efficiency Furnace: Upgrading to a high-efficiency furnace can signi
Read MoreOntario homeowners know the struggle of dealing with hot, humid summers and long, cold winters. Traditionally, this has meant separate systems: an air conditioner for cooling and a furnace for heating. But with modern heat pump technology, one
Read MoreYour air conditioner plays a crucial role in keeping your home comfortable, especially during the sweltering summer months. While regular maintenance can prevent many issues, there are times when your AC might start acting up. Knowing when to handle
Read More