Why Your Heater Is Working Harder in January (And What East Arkansas Homeowners Should Know)

January 26, 2026

January brings some of the coldest and most consistent winter weather to East Arkansas. For homeowners in areas like Jonesboro and Wynne, this often means heating systems are pushed harder than at any other time of year.

If your heater runs more often, struggles to maintain comfort, or causes higher energy bills, January conditions are likely the reason.

Extended Cold Weather Increases System Demand

Unlike short cold spells earlier in the season, January temperatures often remain low for days at a time. Your heating system has little opportunity to rest between cycles, increasing wear and energy consumption.

Both furnaces and heat pumps run longer during extended cold weather.

Airflow Issues Become More Obvious

Airflow restrictions that went unnoticed in the fall often become apparent in January. Dirty filters, blocked vents, or duct issues limit warm air distribution and force the system to work harder.

Restricted airflow reduces efficiency and increases the likelihood of breakdowns during peak winter usage.

Thermostat and Sensor Problems

Cold weather can expose calibration issues with thermostats or internal sensors. If your home feels colder than the thermostat reading suggests, the system may be overcompensating or cycling improperly.

Ensuring accurate temperature readings helps prevent unnecessary system strain.

Wear and Tear Shows Up During Peak Usage

January is when worn components such as motors, igniters, and electrical connections are most likely to fail. These parts may have functioned adequately earlier in the season, but struggle under sustained demand.

Routine maintenance helps identify and address these issues before they lead to system failure.

Energy Bills Often Reveal Hidden Problems

A sudden increase in January energy bills often indicates inefficiency. When heaters run longer than necessary due to airflow problems, heat loss, or worn components, energy usage climbs.

Monitoring utility bills can provide early insight into system performance.

Normal Winter Operation vs. Signs of Trouble

Some increased heater activity is normal in January, but warning signs include:

• Uneven heating across rooms
   

• Short cycling or constant operation
   

• Unusual noises or odors
   

• Difficulty maintaining thermostat settings
   

These often indicate the need for professional evaluation.

How Mohr Air Conditioning Supports East Arkansas Homeowners

Mohr Air Conditioning helps homeowners across East Arkansas keep heating systems operating efficiently and reliably throughout winter. Our technicians assess airflow, system performance, and component health to reduce breakdown risk and improve comfort.