How Omaha Winters Impact Your Furnace’s Efficiency
Omaha winters are no joke — freezing temperatures, icy winds, and snow-packed roofs put your home’s heating system to the test. But have you ever wondered how this intense winter weather affects your furnace’s efficiency?
At Omaha Heating and Air, we’ve seen firsthand how our local climate can stress even the best HVAC systems. Here’s what every homeowner should know about furnace performance during the coldest months—and how to improve it.
1. Longer Runtime = Higher Energy Use
When outdoor temps drop below freezing, your furnace runs longer and more frequently to maintain a comfortable indoor temperature. This increased runtime puts strain on components and leads to higher utility bills.
2. Poor Insulation and Drafts Make It Worse
Older Omaha homes may have outdated insulation or air leaks that allow warm air to escape. Your furnace has to work harder—and use more energy—to compensate.
Tip: Weatherstrip doors and windows and consider attic insulation upgrades to reduce heat loss.
3. Dirty Filters Reduce Airflow and Efficiency
In winter, people spend more time indoors, creating more dust and pet dander. A clogged filter blocks airflow, forcing your furnace to work overtime.
Change your filter every 1–2 months during peak heating season, or schedule a maintenance visit to stay ahead.
4. Icy Outdoor Units Can Affect Heat Pumps
If you use a heat pump system, extreme cold and ice buildup on the outdoor unit can lower efficiency or cause short cycling. Regular tune-ups can help prevent this.
5. Older Furnaces Lose Efficiency Faster
If your furnace is 15+ years old, it likely operates at 70%–80% efficiency—far below today’s ENERGY STAR® models. The colder it gets outside, the more obvious that inefficiency becomes.
Consider an upgrade or a retrofit solution for better long-term performance.
How to Maximize Furnace Efficiency in Winter
- Schedule a seasonal tune-up before peak cold hits
- Seal duct leaks to prevent heat loss in crawl spaces or attics
- Install a smart thermostat for better heat control
- Change filters regularly to improve airflow
- Upgrade to a high-efficiency furnace if your current unit is outdated
We Keep Omaha Homes Warm and Efficient
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Concerned about your furnace efficiency this winter? Call 402-258-6703 or book a winter HVAC inspection today with Omaha Heating and Air.
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