When you think about winter, you hopefully think of a comfy evening at home. But once in a while winter doesn't feel like going along with our plans, and we're stuck shivering in our own homes. You won't always be able to stop a blizzard from showing up, but you can prevent your HVAC system from being unprepared for winter. Nobody prefers or deserves a broken-down furnace, which is why we made this checklist for getting your HVAC system prepped for winter.
Five Ways to Prepare Your HVAC for Winter
1. Cover Your Outdoor Unit and Clear the Space Nearby
Since most HVAC systems have an outdoor condenser unit to dispel heat, you'll want to see to it that the area nearby is clear of any yard debris. Clear 5 feet of space or so from any leaves or sticks. It's also a good idea to ensure it's covered by a piece of tarp or similar material over the winter. This keeps ice and anything else from getting inside the condenser.
2. Clean or Replace the Air Filter
Always check and clean out your air filter, customarily located in your furnace's indoor air handler. Dust, pollen, animal dander and many other materials can gradually build up in the air filter. If it grows unchecked, your HVAC system could lose efficiency and potentially even become a fire hazard. A fresh air filter enables air to flow more freely, sustaining adequate ventilation and helping keep indoor air quality higher. To get the most benefit from the filter, make sure to clean or exchange it every two or three months or in line with manufacturer instructions.
3. Clean the Blower
The blower is essential to your Lennox furnace, and as a key component it can collect a lot of wear and tear. Cleaning it once in a while will help maintain strong performance. Vacuum the area near the blower and rub the blades with a microfiber cloth for more efficient airflow. If you’re hearing any unusual noises or can't get any circulation from the vents, call a professional technician to examine your blower.
4. Search 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 flaws in the condenser unit outside could play a role in all kinds of comfort problems, including heat escaping before it reaches your ductwork. If there is significant damage, consult your local technician at Air Temperature Control about examining the system before the temperatures begin to drop. This way you can avoid letting a small gap in the system turn into a major problem.
5. Test Your Equipment Before It Gets Too Cold
It's always smart to make sure your heating or cooling is running properly before its busiest season. If you don't, your furnace may be unprepared for the first significant drop in temperatures. Performing a test run of your heating can give you the opportunity to recognize potential problems then and there, while they're still simpler to solve. This also burns off any dust that may have gathered in the air ducts beforehand, eliminating that burnt smell. When your furnace is in working order, you can sled away from any HVAC worries.
A Well-Maintained Furnace Is a Great Way to Welcome Winter
Winter weather is going to be heading this way before you know it. If you make an effort to get your furnace prepped in advance, you can spend the rest of the season enjoying the holidays, having hot cocoa or spending time with your family inside a warm, cozy home. Remember to follow the tips above to get your home ready for next winter!