Winter Weather Advisory: How Long Islanders Should Prepare Their Home HVAC This December

With cold air, potential snow, and increased heating demand on the way, homeowners in Medford, Patchogue, Holbrook, Ronkonkoma, Manorville, Port Jefferson Station, Holtsville, Stony Brook, Center Moriches, East Setauket, and Centereach need to be ready. When winter weather moves in, your HVAC system becomes one of your most critical lines of defense against the cold — and preparing it now can prevent costly breakdowns later.

Here’s what you need to know — and do — to stay warm and safe.

What a Winter Weather Advisory Means

A winter weather advisory is issued when conditions are expected to produce winter weather that can cause inconveniences and safety issues, such as:

• Light to moderate snow or freezing rain
• Icy patches on roads and walkways
• Very cold temperatures with wind chill risks
• Increased strain on heating systems and energy demand National Weather Service

Even if a storm doesn’t produce heavy snow, sustained cold temperatures can create serious stress on your home heating system.

Why Your Heating System Works Harder in Late December

Once cold settles in — especially after a weather advisory — your furnace, boiler, or heat pump will be running more frequently and for longer periods. This can lead to:

• Longer run cycles
• Higher energy bills
• Unnoticed airflow restrictions
• Wear on aging components

Those effects are felt whether you’re in Medford or Stony Brook, Holbrook or Manorville.

1. Change or Check Your Air Filter Now

A clogged filter restricts airflow and forces your heating system to work harder — which can shorten its lifespan and raise your energy bill. Before temperatures drop further, replace your filter with a fresh, high-quality one to improve airflow and efficiency.

2. Inspect Vents and Registers

Blocked vents — whether from furniture, rugs, or dust buildup — can starve rooms of warm air. Make sure all vents in every room are open and unobstructed so your heat is distributed evenly throughout your home.

3. Test Your Thermostat

Have your thermostat set to a consistent schedule to avoid unnecessary spikes or energy waste. One expert guideline suggests keeping a thermostat around 68°F while home and lowering it at night or when away to save energy — something especially helpful during cold snaps.

4. Ensure Outdoor Units Are Clear

If you have a heat pump or outdoor HVAC unit, clear away debris, leaves, snow, or ice. Contrary to popular belief, covering your outdoor unit is not recommended — trapping moisture can cause corrosion and other damage. Instead, regularly clear any snow after storms to maintain proper airflow.

5. Watch for Uneven Heat or Strange Noises

Cold weather reveals weaknesses. If rooms stay cold, the furnace cycles on and off rapidly (short cycling), or your system makes unusual noises, it’s time to call a professional. Ignoring these signs — especially in towns like Patchogue or Ronkonkoma where winter cold can hit hard — can lead to a system failure at the worst possible moment.

6. Take Winter Weather Action Early

Don’t wait for the coldest nights. December’s advisory signals that heating demand will increase quickly, and early preparation avoids mid-winter emergencies. Annual maintenance, filter changes, and vent clearing are simple steps that make your system more reliable.

7. Stay Safe and Save Energy

In addition to HVAC readiness, simple home practices help protect your system and lower energy bills during cold spells:

• Seal drafty windows and doors to reduce heat loss
• Add insulation where needed
• Check carbon monoxide alarms (especially with gas furnaces)
• Keep flammable materials away from heating equipment

These steps not only improve comfort in Holtsville, Center Moriches, East Setauket, and beyond, but also help your system work efficiently through stormy weather.

Need Help With Winter HVAC Issues?

Absolute HVAC is proud to serve Medford, Patchogue, Holbrook, Ronkonkoma, Manorville, Port Jefferson Station, Holtsville, Stony Brook, Center Moriches, East Setauket, and Centereach — especially during critical winter weather. If your heating system is struggling, making strange noises, or simply due for a checkup, our licensed technicians are ready to respond.

Call Absolute HVAC today for winter-ready inspections, repairs, or emergency heating service — and stay warm through every advisory and cold snap this season.