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How To: Care for Your Heating System in the Winter 

January 29, 2024

Los Angeles may be famed for its sunny skies, but even the City of Angels experiences its share of cooler nights in the winter months. While you might enjoy these cooler moments outdoors, a well-functioning heating system becomes an unsung hero in your home, quietly ensuring comfort. 

Your home’s warmth becomes a silent testament to the cold, winter season. There’s a certain magic in returning to a warm, welcoming space, feeling the gentle embrace of heat after a day in the city’s mild winter. It’s these little comforts that transform a house into a home, creating a haven against the chill. 

Embracing Winter’s Chill: The Essentials of Heating System Care 

Winter in Los Angeles doesn’t bring harsh snowstorms, but it does bring a chill that requires a dependable heating system. The key to facing these cooler months is not just in having a heating system but ensuring it’s primed for peak performance. Regular care of your heating system isn’t a luxury—it’s necessary to maintain a comfortable and energy-efficient home. 

Understanding the components of your system and the signs of wear can make a significant difference in how you experience the season. It’s about more than just staying warm. It’s about creating an environment where you can thrive no matter the temperature outside. As you prepare your Los Angeles home for the continued winter, remember that simple steps in heating system care can greatly enhance your comfort and reduce unexpected repair needs. 

Winter Ready: Preparing Your Heating System for the Cooler Months 

As the temperature continues to dip, the last thing any homeowner wants is a heating system that falters. Let’s explore key procedures that can be done to safeguard against this. We’re talking about simple yet effective measures to keep your heating system in top condition. 

  • Insulation Checks 
  • Air Duct Maintenance 
  • Identifying Potential Issues 
  • Professional Tune-ups 
  • Smart Thermostat Usage 

Insulation Checks 

Ensuring your home is well-insulated is a critical step in prepping your heating system for winter. Good insulation keeps the warmth where it belongs—inside your home. It’s not just about comfort. It’s a smart way to enhance the efficiency of your heating system, saving energy and money in the process. 

When checking insulation, here’s what to look for: 

  • Attic and Basement Insulation: Check for any gaps or thinning areas. These spots can be major culprits for heat loss. 
  • Window and Door Seals: Ensure they are tight and secure. Even small drafts can significantly impact your home’s overall warmth. 
  • Wall Insulation: Pay special attention to exterior walls, as they are most susceptible to heat loss. 

Good insulation is an investment in your home’s comfort and your heating system’s efficiency. It’s a straightforward yet effective step toward a cozier winter in Los Angeles. 

Air Duct Maintenance 

Maintaining your air ducts is essential for a well-functioning heating system. It’s not just about heat distribution. It’s about ensuring clean, allergen-free air circulates throughout your home. Well-maintained ducts support your heating system to operate at its best, contributing to warmth and health. 

When inspecting your air ducts, keep an eye out for: 

  • Cleanliness: Check for dust buildup or obstructions, which can impede airflow and quality. 
  • Seal Integrity: Look for any leaks or loose connections. Properly sealed ducts make a significant difference in efficiency. 
  • Overall Condition: Be aware of any signs of rust or damage, as these can lead to bigger issues if left unattended. 

Regular duct maintenance is a key factor in your heating system care, enhancing both the warmth and quality of the air in your Los Angeles home. 

Identifying Potential Issues 

Being proactive about potential issues in your heating system can be a game-changer. It’s not about finding problems but preventing them from turning into costly repairs. A little attention can go a long way in ensuring your heating system’s longevity and efficiency. 

Keep these pointers in mind: 

  • Listen for Unusual Noises: Sounds like rattling or banging can signal problems. 
  • Monitor Heating Efficiency: Noticeable changes in heating effectiveness could indicate underlying issues. 
  • Inspect for Visible Wear: Regularly check for signs of wear or damage on visible components. 

By staying alert to these signs, you’re taking a crucial step in heating system care, ensuring a smooth run through the winter months in Los Angeles. 

Professional Tune-ups 

Nothing beats the expertise of a professional when it comes to heating system tune-ups. These check-ups are vital, not just for the system’s performance but also for your peace of mind. A professional can identify and address issues that might be invisible to the untrained eye. 

When scheduling a tune-up, expect the following: 

  • Thorough Inspection: All components of your heating system will be checked for optimal function. 
  • Cleaning and Adjustments: Key parts will be cleaned and adjusted as needed for efficient operation. 
  • Expert Recommendations: Receive tailored advice on maintaining your system’s health. 

A professional tune-up is an investment in your heating system’s efficiency and your continued comfort throughout the cooler Los Angeles months. 

Smart Thermostat Usage 

Integrating a smart thermostat into your heating system is embracing smart, efficient living. These devices aren’t just about convenience. They’re about optimizing your home’s heating efficiency. With their advanced features, you can tailor your heating to your lifestyle while saving on energy costs. 

Look for these benefits: 

  • Programmable Settings: Customize heating schedules to fit your daily routine. 
  • Energy Usage Reports: Gain insights into your heating patterns and ways to save energy. 
  • Remote Control: Adjust your heating system from anywhere, anytime. 

Smart thermostat usage is a step toward a more efficient, controlled heating experience in your home, blending technology with comfort. 

Stay Warm, Los Angeles 

Preparing your heating system for winter is about more than just comfort—it’s about peace of mind. In Los Angeles, where the winters are mild yet noticeable, ensuring your heating system is well-maintained means you’re ready for whatever the season brings. 

At Brody Pennell Heating & Air Conditioning, we’re committed to helping you achieve this readiness. Remember, a little preparation goes a long way in guaranteeing warmth and efficiency all winter long. Don’t wait for the chill to set in. Let’s get your heating system winter-ready today.


About The Author

Brody Pennell

Since 1945, Brody Pennell Heating & Air Conditioning is the committed to helping homeowners in the greater Los Angeles area experience total home comfort. In 2021, the readers of the Los Angeles Times voted Brody Pennell the Best HVAC Company in the area.

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Response from the owner:We appreciate your feedback and the 5-star rating! It means a lot to us.
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I can always trust on Brody Pennell for all my AC and heating needs. Very professional, on-time and responsive. The technician Giovanna Consuegra, was very diligent, courteous, and very knowledgeable inspecting and maintaining our AC unit and insuring is ready for the summer heat.
Response from the owner:We're so grateful for your kind words, Jorge! It's wonderful to hear about your positive experience with our technician Nicholas. Thank you for trusting us with your AC and heating needs during such a crucial time. Your satisfaction is our top priority!
Alberto M was an amazing technician, he answered all of my questions and was able to accommodate every request!
Brody Pennell replaced the old heating and cooling system in my condo. The service was professional and excellent from the initial bid to the day of installation. Mike and his team arrived on time, were extremely patient with my questions and knowledgeable about the product. The work was done neatly and efficiently in less time than predicted and the installed system works perfectly.
I highly recommend Brody Pennell.
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Had really good experience!
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David a technician from Brody-Pennell arrived for the inspection of
our Heat/Air units (2) and demonstrated not only by his greeting and dress, but by his patient thorough examination of both units.

He answered all questions concerning both of our Heat/Air units
with clarity, which resulted in our deciding to purchase 1 new
Heat/Air unit and repair of our second unit.

Our new Heat/Air unit was installed the next day; which was
very fast and we consider our money well-spent!!!!
We recommend Brody-Pennell Heat/Air, because of the
Professional Excellence that was demonstrated by their
team of service people for our home.
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Misael was kind, and very knowledgeable. He was very respectful not to track dirt inside, and took the time to explain how the HVAC works and ways to improve its function. Definitely a 5-star job!
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Our Technician Giocanni came in and got right to work he was friendly polite and very clean. He took time to make sure he put on shoe covers to make sure he didn't track any dirt on to our carpets. He diagnosed the problem and told us in plain simple language what was the problem and what it would entail to fix it. I was extremely happy with their service
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Chris was very polite and professional
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Got here fast! In depth analysis, quick solution — work scheduled. Gio was very professional and courteous. Worked well with his supervisor. So far, great company!
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Ruben showed up on time and fully prepared to do the job. He explained what he was doing and what the problem was. He fee was reasonable and I would highly recommend.
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This place is one of the rare gems that lead with honesty and simplicity. I called and spoke with many HVAC servicing companies, and Brody Pennell Heating & AC was patient to read through my inspection report and speak to me about my situation. We scheduled an appointment, and they had 2 servicemen who came on time, were friendly, and taught me alot about my HVAC system and what's needed next. I would highly recommend them. There was no pushy salesman tactics at all
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Kevin was great. Polite and neat. All is well.
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Giovanni is a 5 star technician.
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David E. was great! Excellent service, came right on time. Much appreciated all his work.
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John was very courteous friendly and informative. Above and beyond service thank you .
Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind words, Daniel! It was a pleasure assisting you.
Justin was great!
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Anthony, the service technician for Brody Pennell, arrived on time, was very careful and thorough in evaluating our system. He explained what was working and what wasn't working efficiently or with some risk of major problems. I recommend Brody Pennell who have dedicated employees that they send out to your home not someone on contract. I was pleasantly surprised when Anthony said someone from another department could come by the same day to talk with us about replacement options. We really wanted things working before the hot weather gets here. David was there in minutes and was able to have a crew start the next day, and they could finish in 2 to 3 days with removal of old unit and installation of a new system. I have high expectations for the installation crew to be just as professional as Anthony and David from Brody Pennell.
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Kevin was great! Personable, thorough and solved my issue!
Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind words, Karen! We're glad to hear you had a great experience with Kevin and Ariel. Hope to see you again soon!
Justin does everything he is required to and more. All with a positive attitude. I am very satisfied with Brody Pennell service for my HVAC system.
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Great Service! Thank you
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5 stars They were on time and did a great job. Tested system. Inquired with senior tech. Communicated well. Ordered part.
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James is an excellent employee. He is very knowledgeable and personable. He was able to diagnose the problem and fix it. I had the upmost confidence in his abilities. Thank you for sending him to us.

Richie Salazar is an excellent employee. He knows his craft and is very conscientious. Richie is very personable and it was pleasure to have him at our house. Thank you for sending him to us. Daniel P. is another excellent employee. He knows his craft and is very businesslike. I had utmost confidence in his abilities. Thank you
Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind words about James and Richie. We truly appreciate your feedback and are glad to hear that they provided you with excellent service.
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Great company. Yesterday Kevin Lopez determined we needed a condensate pump. He returned today with Juan Carbajal and David Escamilla and in a little more than an hour the new pump was installed and working perfectly. They are a friendly and knowledgeable trio who kept us informed and answered all of our questions.

I am so happy that we have stayed with Brody. This past week our AC went out. The service people from Brody have been warning us that this was going to happen so it was not unexpected. Mike I. and his team (Raul I. And Alexander V.) came to do the installation and we could not have been more pleased with their work and the final product. It was a very complex job but they completed it in a day. They explained everything they were doing and were neat and efficient. They were friendly and answered all of our questions. This is a truly great team of knowledgeable workers and deserve to be commended.
Response from the owner:Thank you for sharing your positive experience with us! We're glad to hear that Kevin, Juan, and David provided friendly and knowledgeable service, keeping you informed throughout the process.
Justin Usi was great!
Response from the owner:Thanks for the fantastic review! We're happy to have served you well.
The tech was very respectful and pleasant. Did a thorough inspection of the systems and did the required maintenance. All in all good service. Changed the motor. Allis fine.
Response from the owner:Thank you for recognizing our tech's respectful and pleasant service, and for appreciating the thorough inspection and maintenance. We're glad you had a positive experience!
Misael to do the repairs that were needed on our AC and heating unit.
He was prompt, courteous, and spend time answering my many questions to make sure I understood. I have a semi annual maintenance plan with Brody p PennellT
and will definitel knew it
John M was terrific, very patient listening to my issues, operative variety of solutions. Totally competent. Very clear in his explanations as to what was needed in the house. I would absolutely want to deal with him again.
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Clear and informative, if sadly to tell us that our hundred year old floor furnace had met its end at last.
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Alejandro Amaro did a fantastic job today. We are very happy with his great work.
Response from the owner:Hi Ryan! We appreciate the review and are glad we could be of service!
Technician John M. from Brody Pennell performed a scheduled inspection of our heating and air conditioning unit. He was extremely knowledgeable and conducted a thorough and excellent assessment. His professionalism and friendly demeanor made the experience seamless. John took the time to explain his recommendations clearly, offering valuable advice on improving and extending the life of our unit. Overall, I highly recommend his service to others.
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Great service!!
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Kevin came yesterday and today to service our heat and install an Air Scrubber! He did an awesome job. Super nice and very informed. Thanks for sending a great guy to our house.
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Alberto and Justin checked out my relatively new package unit. Thankfully they had checked the history of the unit and our home, so they knew what to expect. It was great to hear this. They clearly explained what was found, showed pictures, and presented options for a concern they found. No problems with the unit and installed a new high rated filter. Thanks guys and Pennell for hiring knowledgeable pros.
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Very professional and very knowledgeable.
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John was knowledgeable, friendly and able to diagnose the problem quickly. Would recommend!
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Luke is smart and thorough and entirely trustworthy. He did a terrific job for us.
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Service was amazing. She was very professional and efficient. She had great recommendations to keep our AC/ furnace running smooth.
Response from the owner:Your satisfaction is our reward. Thank you for the 5-star review!
John was great!
Response from the owner:Your satisfaction is our reward. Thank you for the 5-star review!
Anthony Contreras did a thorough and professional job for me today. I appreciate his knowledge as well as his fine work ethic. Pamela James
Response from the owner:Thank you for recognizing our team's efforts! We appreciate your kind words and are delighted that we could assist you effectively.
Giovanny Q and David Ocampo were great. Giovanny provided great service. He was very thorough in checking my system and provided great explanations of recommended work. Brody Pennell has the best technicians. I trust the work will be done right. Ask for Giovanny if you need service, you will be in good hands. Also, David was great in providing options for a new system, he did not try to oversell but provide what was needed for my square footage and usage. Fully recommend Brody Pennell, great company with great work technicians.
Response from the owner:We are so grateful for your kind words about Jose! Thank you for trusting us with your HVAC needs.
Ivan Diaz provided the service and was professional and went above and beyond.
Response from the owner:We're delighted you had a great experience with us. Thanks for the 5-star review!
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