Winter HVAC Energy Efficiency: Essential Tips to Keep Your Systems Running Efficiently

7 Tips to a More Energy Efficient System this Winter

As temperatures drop and winter sets in, the performance and efficiency of your HVAC systems become more important than ever. Whether you manage a commercial building, office space, retail environment or industrial site, ensuring your heating and air conditioning equipment operates efficiently during the colder months can help reduce energy costs, maintain occupant comfort and prevent unexpected breakdowns.

At London AC Ltd, we support clients throughout the winter period with expert maintenance, servicing and energy efficiency upgrades. Below, we share some practical and cost-effective ways to improve the performance of your HVAC systems this season.

1. Make Use of Programmable or Smart Controls

Modern HVAC controls allow you to manage heating and cooling more precisely. Using programmable timers or smart building controls can help avoid unnecessary running times and keep energy waste to a minimum.

Why it matters: Systems that run continuously, even when spaces are unoccupied, consume significantly more energy than needed. Adjusting operating hours to match building usage can create substantial savings, especially in winter when heating demand is higher.

2. Keep Indoor Units Clear and Unobstructed

Airflow is essential to HVAC performance. Indoor units that are blocked by furniture, decorations, storage items or seasonal displays, have to work harder to deliver the same results, reducing efficiency and increasing energy consumption.

How to improve airflow:

• Maintain at least 1 metre of clearance around indoor units

• Avoid covering units with decorations or temporary fixtures

• Check that vents and louvers can open fully

Better airflow means better performance and lower operating costs.

3. Review HVAC Settings for Seasonal Adjustments

Your HVAC system may not need to operate the same way it did in summer. Adjusting set temperatures, switching to appropriate heating modes and reviewing system schedules can optimise performance for winter conditions.

Quick checks:

• Ensure heating modes are activated where required

• Verify that thermostats are calibrated correctly

• Review system timers to match winter occupancy patterns

• Check that night set-back temperatures are appropriate

Small adjustments can help balance comfort and energy savings.

4. Check Refrigerant Levels and System Performance

If you notice reduced heating performance, inconsistent temperatures or the system working harder than usual, low refrigerant levels may be the cause. This not only affects comfort but can significantly decrease efficiency.

Why refrigerant matters in winter:

• Heat pump performance heavily depends on correct refrigerant charge

• Low levels force systems to overwork, increasing energy usage

• Early detection can prevent more serious mechanical issues later

A professional service can quickly identify and resolve refrigerant issues before they escalate.

5. Schedule Preventative Maintenance

Winter is one of the busiest times for HVAC systems, so preventative maintenance is essential. Many common winter breakdowns occur due to issues that could have been identified earlier in the year.

Maintenance benefits include:

✔️ Improved system efficiency

✔️ Lower energy bills

✔️ Reduced risk of breakdowns during peak demand

✔️ Extended equipment lifespan

✔️ Improved indoor air quality

A scheduled check with a qualified engineer can address potential issues and ensure your system is ready for the demands of winter.

6. Consider Upgrading to Energy-Efficient Equipment

If your HVAC units are older, you may be paying more than necessary on running costs. Modern systems offer improved efficiency ratings, lower carbon emissions and smarter control options.

When to consider upgrading:

• Units are older than 10 to 12 years

• Rising energy bills with no change in usage

• Frequent repairs or inconsistent performance

• Outdated controls or refrigerants

Newer systems can dramatically reduce energy consumption, making them a worthwhile long-term investment.

7. Keep Outdoor Units Free from Ice and Debris

During winter, outdoor condensing units can become obstructed by snow, leaves, ice or debris. These obstructions restrict airflow, reduce system performance and can trigger emergency shutdowns.

Simple preventative steps:

• Clear snow and debris from around outdoor units

• Ensure drainage areas are unblocked

• Maintain clear airflow from all sides

• Check for ice build-up during sub-zero temperatures

Proper airflow around your outdoor equipment is just as important in winter as it is in summer months.

Small But Mighty

Improving HVAC energy efficiency during winter doesn’t require major changes - often, small adjustments and regular maintenance can significantly enhance performance, reduce running costs and keep your premises comfortable throughout the season.

At London AC Ltd, we’re here to help you get the most from your HVAC systems this winter. Whether you need preventative maintenance, system optimisation or advice on upgrading older equipment, our team is ready to support your needs.

If you’d like to discuss your winter HVAC maintenance plan, contact us today.