Predictions for a mild winter in 2025 might sound like a blessing, but HVAC experts warn that it doesn't mean you should skip your usual fall prep.
Even without severe cold in most of the US, fluctuating temperatures and sudden weather events could take a toll on your home, and you don't want to be caught out.
From insulation checks to cleaning key systems, these are the five fall home maintenance tasks the experts are still doing, even with a milder winter on the horizon.
Why You Shouldn't Skip Fall Prep Ahead of a Mild Winter
According to predictions by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOOA), this winter will be milder for most of the US, specifically in the southern half of the country, with drier weather, too.
However, the predictions are just that – predictions.
Danny Reddick, master plumber, HVAC technician, and president at Reddick & Sons, warns, 'We’ve all experienced winters forecasted to be mild that suddenly turn harsh, with cold snaps hitting quickly and unexpectedly.
A 'mild' winter can still stress your system, he continues. 'A furnace that hasn't been serviced might limp through a mild winter, but it's working inefficiently, costing you more on energy bills, and setting you up for a breakdown right when you need it most.'
Most systems seem fine until they suddenly break down, he adds. Furthermore, a mild winter where temperatures hover around freezing could actually be harder work for your HVAC system, as it cycles constantly between on and off.
Ultimately, Danny says, 'If you skip preparation and winterization, one unexpected hard freeze is all it takes to burst pipes, damage your heat pump, or cause other expensive problems that proper preparation would have prevented.'
As such, it is vital that you do not slack on preparing a home for cold weather to avoid any winter home maintenance mistakes. These are the five key tasks the pros are focusing on.
1. Cleaning the Furnace
For Scott Levene, VP at Levco, furnace maintenance is a must – regardless of the weather forecast.
He urges, 'Check and clean your HVAC system, furnace, or heat pump. This can help prevent breakdowns when the cold arrives. A dirty system has to work harder, drives up energy costs, and shortens equipment life.
'While cleaning, make sure to also change your air filters regularly, ideally every 30 to 90 days, depending on usage and if you have pets. A clean filter will help keep your system running efficiently and maintain indoor air quality.'
'Finally, test your carbon monoxide detector [available from Walmart] seasonally, especially before winter. Calibrating will ensure your comfort and safety throughout the season.'
While there are some common heating problems you can repair yourself, it is always worth having a professional service spot any potential problems before they break in the dead of winter.
2. Calibrate your Thermostat
With your furnace in good working order, the next task is to ensure your thermostat is calibrated to both ensure comfort and cut energy bills.
Danny explains, 'A thermostat that's reading two degrees off or has poor programming means your system is running more than necessary, even in a mild winter. I'm either verifying that the existing thermostat is reading accurately and operating correctly, or I'm strongly recommending an upgrade to a programmable or smart thermostat like the Honeywell T6 Pro [from Amazon] or Ecobee [also available at Amazon with air quality monitors].
'Smart thermostats also provide maintenance reminders and can alert you to system problems before they become emergencies. The ROI on a good thermostat is usually less than two years, even in mild climates.'
They really do leave you better prepared for unpredictable weather, allowing for quick changes to heating schedules at a moment's notice.
3. Insulate Ductwork
Knowing where to insulate your home to keep it warm all winter is one thing, but understanding where to insulate to prevent damage is another.
Danny warns that this task is often overlooked as one only needed for extreme weather, but leaky ducts can raise energy bills year-round, especially problematic in attics, crawl spaces, and garages.
He explains. 'Even in a mild winter, if you're losing 20-30% of your heated air through duct leaks, which is common in homes that haven't had ductwork sealed, you're essentially heating the outdoors and running your system far more than necessary.
'I'm not using duct tape, which fails; I'm using mastic sealant [available at Lowe's] and proper insulation rated at least R-6 for ducts in unconditioned spaces.'
4. Clean Heating Vents
Cleaning vents around your home is vital to make heating more efficient and reduce strain on your heating system.
Richie Drew, VP of Operations at One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning, says some simple cleaning tips can ensure your system is better equipped to keep you warm.
He suggests, 'To clean vents, homeowners can simply use the wand attachment on a vacuum. We suggest doing this year-round, but especially before or during winter to cut down on dust blowing through your home. When people and pets spend more time indoors, they shed more skin cells and hair, causing filters to fill up faster.'
5. Maintain Backup Power
Just because the predictions lean towards mild weather for most, it never hurts to get your home emergency-ready. Setting up a generator is the best way to prepare your home for any event, any time of year.
For Richie, preparing for the worst is essential. 'Winter storms can happen fast, and sometimes communities can lose power. It’s important to prepare a backup heat source in case this happens.'
The Kobalt 5500 Dual Fuel portable generator from Lowe's is top-rated by shoppers and is designed specifically for emergency power during an outage.
It is also wise to keep extra sleeping bags and blankets in the home, he adds. 'If you have a wood-burning fireplace or stove, be sure to have plenty of dry firewood on hand.' We have some tips on the best way to stack firewood indoors to prevent any accidents.
What to Shop
The long reach and flexible handle mean this brush is perfect for getting down into gaps in radiators and heat vents to dislodge dust, without damaging walls or fixtures.
The Environmental Working Group (EWG) has certified Attitude products as non-toxic, meaning they contain no harsh chemicals or artificial compounds.
Clear insulating window film can help to protect against heat loss and high energy bills, even in mild winters.
Insulating foam expands on application to fill gaps up to one inch in size, preventing air transfer for a warmer home.
This is an excellent option for smart control and energy savings. It integrates well with Alexa, Siri, and Google Assistant for quick heating control. Plus, it is ENERGY STAR Certified and has a touchscreen.
This large room air purifier cleans rooms up to 1,000 sq ft in one hour, helping to improve indoor air quality in winter when the windows are shut more often.
Meet the Experts
With your home secured, don't forget your winter gardening checklist to help prepare your outdoor space for cooler weather, too.
