Your heating, ventilation, and cooling system (or HVAC system for short) works year-round to keep your home comfortable + temperature-regulated. Now that it’s winter and you’re almost certainly cranking the heat, your HVAC unit is running more frequently to keep your home warm and toasty. This increased use can put wear + tear on your HVAC system, which can, in turn, cause some functioning issues.

We talked to the pros at local HVAC maintenance service Lee Company to learn more about some of the most common questions they receive, steps you can take to DIY a fix, and when to call the pros.

Q: Why can’t I set the temperature accurately?

A: If your HVAC system isn’t responsive to the temperature you set, it could be a thermostat issue. Try replacing your thermostat’s batteries and troubleshoot by changing the temperature to different settings. If that isn’t working, call a professional.

Q: How often should I replace air filters?

Yep, HVAC systems have air filters, and changing them regularly keeps everything running smoothly. If your filters are clogged, your furnace could “lock out” (read: not turn on) because of high temperatures. Check whether your system uses disposable or permanent filters, and aim to replace or clean them at least once a month.

Bonus: Changing filters regularly improves your air quality, too.

Q: My heating bill just spiked. What’s going on?

Two words: Heat pump. Some homes are heated by an electric pump located outside the house (usually around back or on the side). If ice builds up on the coils, the pump can’t function properly and will kick the furnace into overdrive to compensate. No visible ice? Call the pros.

If your HVAC issues are past the point of a DIY fix, Lee Company has your back. They have nearly 80 years of experience in keeping Nashville’s homes heated + cooled, and even have a 24/7/365 phone support line. Now that’s what we call service. Stay warm, Nashville.*