Cold snaps in Georgia have a way of showing up fast and when they do, your heater suddenly becomes the most important system in your home. The last thing anyone wants is to wake up to a cold house, strange noises from the furnace, or worse… no heat at all.
The good news? A few simple steps today can make a big difference in keeping your heater running smoothly when temperatures drop.
Here are five practical things you can do right now to protect your heating system during a cold snap.
1. Change Your Air Filter (Yes, It Really Matters)
This is one of the easiest and most overlooked ways to help your heater.
A dirty air filter:
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Restricts airflow
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Forces your system to work harder
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Can cause overheating or shutdowns
During a cold snap, your heater runs longer and more frequently so a clogged filter can push it past its limits.
What to do today:
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Check your filter size
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Replace it if it looks dusty or gray
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Aim to change filters every 1-3 months in winter
👉 Pro tip for Georgia homes: pollen, dust, and pet dander can clog filters faster than you think even in winter.
2. Keep Vents & Returns Clear
Blocked vents trap heat inside your system instead of your home.
Make sure:
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Furniture isn't covering vents
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Rugs aren't blocking floor registers
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Return vents are open and unobstructed
Good airflow helps your heater heat evenly and prevents unnecessary strain on the blower motor.
Quick win: Walk through your house and uncover at least one vent you forgot about. Almost everyone finds one.
3. Set Your Thermostat Smart (Not Extreme)
It's tempting to crank the heat when it's freezing but big temperature jumps can stress your system.
Best practice during a cold snap:
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Keep your thermostat at a consistent temperature
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Avoid large overnight setbacks
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Increase heat gradually if needed
Constant on-and-off cycling is harder on your heater than steady operation especially during Georgia's sudden temperature drops.
If you have a programmable or smart thermostat, now's the time to use it.
4. Listen for Warning Signs (Don't Ignore Them)
Your heater often tells you when something's wrong before it fully breaks down.
Call for service if you notice:
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Unusual noises (banging, squealing, rattling)
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Burning smells that don't go away
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Short cycling (turning on and off quickly)
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Uneven heating throughout your home
Catching a small issue early can prevent a no-heat emergency during the coldest days.
5. Schedule Preventative Maintenance (Before Everyone Else Does)
Cold snaps are peak season for HVAC breakdowns. That means longer wait times when something goes wrong.
A professional heating check can:
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Catch worn parts before they fail
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Improve efficiency
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Reduce emergency repair risk
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Extend system lifespan
If your heater hasn't been checked this season, today is the best day to schedule it not the day it stops working.
Bonus Tip for Georgia Homeowners: Don't Forget About Your Pipes
Many heating issues during cold snaps happen alongside frozen or stressed plumbing.
Protect your home by:
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Insulating exposed pipes
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Letting faucets drip slightly during extreme cold
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Keeping cabinet doors open near plumbing
Your HVAC and plumbing systems often work hand-in-hand during winter weather.
Stay Warm, Georgia ❤️ We're Here If You Need Us
Cold snaps don't have to mean stress or surprises. A little preparation goes a long way toward keeping your heater running safely and reliably.
If your system is acting up or you just want peace of mind before the next freeze, Dayco Systems is always here with honest, dependable service from neighbors you can trust.
