5 Tips to Get Your Heat Pump Ready for Winter

5 Tips to Get Your Heat Pump Ready for Winter

\Late summer and early fall are the best times to make sure your heat pump is ready for the heating season ahead. A little preparation while the weather is still warm means less stress (and fewer surprises) when the temperatures drop.

1. Clear the Outdoor Unit

Before the leaves start falling in Massachusetts, take a few minutes to inspect the area around your outdoor condenser. Remove any twigs, leaves, grass clippings, or yard debris that may have built up over the summer. Shrubs, plants, or fencing should be trimmed back at least two feet in every direction so the unit has plenty of space to “breathe”. 

This simple preparation helps your heat pump maintain strong airflow, prevents blockages once snow begins to pile up, and allows your system to run at peak efficiency throughout the colder months. Keeping the outdoor unit clear is one of the easiest—and most effective—ways to prepare your heat pump for winter while protecting both comfort and energy savings.

2. Refresh Your Air Filters

Before the heating season begins, check your filters and either replace them (if you have an air handler) or give them a thorough cleaning (if you have mini-splits). Dirty filters are one of the most common causes of poor performance in heat pumps. Clogged filters restrict airflow, forcing your system to work harder while delivering less comfort. 

If your heat pump system has mini-split units, remove the filters, gently vacuum them with the soft brush attachment, and wash them with lukewarm water and mild, unscented soap. Be sure they are completely air dried before putting them back into the unit. 

If your home has an air handler, use disposable filters that slide into a slot near the return duct. You can purchase replacements at most hardware stores, home improvement centers, or online — just check the size printed on the side of your existing filter before buying. As a rule of thumb, replace these filters every 1–3 months, depending on usage, household size, and whether you have pets or allergy concerns. A fresh filter keeps air flowing smoothly, protects your system from strain, and helps maintain healthy indoor air quality throughout the heating season.

3. Open and Unblock Vents

Heat pumps distribute warm air throughout your home, and that airflow depends on open, unblocked vents. Walk through your house and make sure that vents are not covered by rugs, furniture, or curtains. Also check that vents are fully open — sometimes people close them if they don’t want AC in a certain room, or little fingers may have shut them without anyone noticing. Even partial blockages or closed vents can restrict circulation and create uneven heating.

By ensuring proper airflow now, your heat pump system won’t have to work as hard to keep your home warm — saving energy and extending its lifespan. A small adjustment like this can make a big difference in overall comfort when the temperatures drop.

4. Test the Thermostat

Don’t wait until the first cold morning to find out if your system is working. Switch your thermostat to heating mode while it’s still mild outside and raise the temperature a few degrees. Listen for the system to kick on, and pay attention to how quickly it warms your space.

If your thermostat isn’t responding or if you notice unusual sounds, now is the perfect time to schedule a service call. Testing early gives you peace of mind and helps you avoid surprises when you really need the heat.

5. Schedule Preventative Maintenance

Just like your car needs  oil changes to stay reliable, your heat pump benefits from seasonal tune-ups to keep it running smoothly. At Forge, our in-house HVAC service team checks refrigerant levels, inspects coils, tests electrical connections, and can even deep clean your system to ensure everything is running smoothly. Preventative maintenance helps avoid unexpected breakdowns, and makes sure your heat pump is performing efficiently before the cold weather arrives.

For Massachusetts homeowners, scheduling maintenance in late summer or early fall is ideal. It gives you a head start before HVAC schedules fill up and ensures your system is ready for the first frosty night.

Stay Ahead of Winter with Forge

A little preparation now will pay off for the upcoming winter season. By following these tips, Massachusetts homeowners can enjoy steady comfort, better air quality, and peace of mind knowing their heat pump is ready for whatever winter brings.

Ready to schedule your preventative maintenance or explore an upgrade? Call us at 617-546-7004 to get started today.