When you imagine winter, ideally you think of a comfortable evening at home. But sometimes winter doesn't want to go along with our plans, and we end up shivering in our own homes. You might not be able to prevent a blizzard from blowing through, but you can prevent your HVAC system from being unprepared for winter. Nobody wants or deserves a broken-down furnace, which is why we made this checklist for getting your HVAC system ready for winter.
Five Ways to Prepare Your HVAC for a Cold Winter
1. Cover Your Outdoor Unit and Clean the Space Nearby
Since most HVAC systems have an outdoor condenser unit to discharge heat, you'll want to see to it that the area close to the unit itself is clear of any yard debris. Clean 5 feet of space or so from any vegetation or rocks. It's also smart to make sure it's covered up by a piece of tarp or similar material through the winter. This keeps ice and other debris from getting inside the condenser.
2. Wash or Replace the Air Filter
Always check and clean out your air filter, customarily placed in your furnace's indoor air handler. Dust, pollen, animal dander and many other contaminants can steadily collect in the air filter. If it goes unchecked, your heating could lose efficiency and potentially even become a fire hazard. A clear air filter enables air to flow smoothly, maintaining good ventilation and helping keep indoor air quality high. To secure the most benefit from the filter, make sure to clean or replace it every few months or in line with manufacturer instructions.
3. Clean the Blower
The blower is essential to your Lennox furnace, and as an essential component it can attract a lot of wear and tear. Cleaning it on occasion will help it continue working at its best. Vacuum the area near the blower and clean the blades with a microfiber cloth for optimal airflow. If you hear any unusual noises or are not getting any circulation from the vents, get a professional technician to examine your blower.
4. Check for Gaps or Dents in Your Furnace
Make sure that your furnace is free of visible damage on the inside or outside units. A hole in the air handler or damage to the condenser unit outside may contribute to all kinds of comfort problems, including heat escaping before it makes it to your ductwork. If there is noticeable damage, speak with your local technician at Air Masters Heating & Cooling about examining the system before the temperatures start dropping. This way you can avoid letting a minor gap in the system turn into a major problem.
5. Test Your Equipment Before It Gets Too Cold
It's always practical to make sure your HVAC system is functioning properly before its busiest season. Otherwise, your heating might be unprepared for the first real drop in temperatures. Performing a test run of your furnace can offer you the chance to recognize potential problems right away, while they're still simpler to resolve. This also removes any dust that might have gathered in the air ducts beforehand, removing that burnt smell. As soon as your furnace is in working condition, you can sled away from these HVAC worries.
A Well-Maintained Furnace Is a Great Way to Welcome Winter
Winter weather will be heading this way before you know it. If you take the time to get your furnace prepared beforehand, you can spend the winter enjoying the holidays, having hot cocoa or hanging out with your family inside a warm, cozy home. Be sure to follow the tips above to get your home prepared for next winter!