When you think of winter, we hope you imagine a comfortable evening in your warm home. But sometimes winter doesn't feel like going along with our plans, and we end up shivering in our own homes. You may not be able to prevent a blizzard from showing up, but you can prevent your furnace and other HVAC equipment from being unprepared for winter. Nobody likes or deserves an unreliable furnace, which is why we prepared this checklist for getting your HVAC system prepped for winter.
Five Ways to Prepare Your HVAC for a Winter Blast
1. Cover up Your Outdoor Unit and Clear the Space Near It
Since most HVAC systems have an outdoor condenser unit to dispel heat, you'll want to make sure that the area nearby is clean of any yard debris. Clear 5 feet of space or so from any plants or rocks. It's also recommended to make sure it's covered by a section of tarp or similar material during the winter. This keeps ice and other problems from getting inside the condenser.
2. Clean or Replace the Air Filter
Always evaluate and clean out your air filter, customarily placed in your furnace's indoor air handler. Dust, pollen, animal dander and many other contaminants can slowly collect in the air filter. If it grows unchecked, your furnace might lose efficiency and possibly even become a fire hazard. A clear air filter allows air to flow easily, sustaining good ventilation and helping keep indoor air quality healthy. To get the most benefit from your filter, make sure to clean or replace it every couple of 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 now and then will help keep it in great shape. Vacuum the area near the blower and clean the blades with a microfiber cloth for optimal airflow. If you notice any unusual noises or can't get any circulation from the vents, hire a professional technician to check your blower.
4. Check for Gaps or Dents in Your Furnace
Make sure that your furnace has no 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 manners of comfort problems, like heat leaking out before it moves into your ductwork. If there is noticeable damage, consult your local technician at Cooler Tymes LLC about checking out the system before the temperatures start falling. This way you can avoid letting a slight gap in the system grow 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 working properly before its busiest season. Otherwise, your heating could be unprepared for the first real drop in temperatures. Doing a test run of your heating can give you the opportunity to notice potential problems early, while they're still easier to resolve. This also eliminates any dust that might have gathered in the air ducts over the fall, removing that burnt smell. As soon as your furnace is in working condition, you can sled away from your HVAC worries.
A Well-Prepared Furnace Is a Great Way to Welcome Winter
Winter weather should be heading this way before you know it. If you take the time to get your furnace ready in advance, you can spend the all winter enjoying the holidays, having hot cocoa or relaxing with your family inside a warm, cozy home. Don't forget to follow the tips above to get your home ready for next winter!