When you think about winter, we hope you think of a cozy evening curled up by the fire. But once in a while winter doesn't feel like going along with our plans, and we're left shivering in our own homes. You won't always be able to keep a blizzard from showing up, but you can prevent your HVAC system from being unprepared for winter. Nobody prefers or deserves a faulty furnace, which is why we prepared this checklist for getting your HVAC system ready for winter.
Five Ways to Prepare Your HVAC for Winter
1. Cover Your Outdoor Unit and Clean the Space Around It
Since most HVAC systems have an outdoor condenser unit to release heat, you'll want to make sure that the area close to the unit itself is free of any yard debris. Clear 5 feet of space or so from any vegetation or objects. It's also recommended to make sure it's covered up by a piece of tarp or similar material through the winter. This keeps ice and other problems from getting inside the condenser.
2. Clean or Replace the Air Filter
Always inspect and clean out your air filter, customarily located in your furnace's indoor air handler. Dust, pollen, animal dander and many other contaminants can gradually collect in the air filter. If it grows unchecked, your heating might lose efficiency and potentially even become a fire hazard. A fresh air filter allows air to flow smoothly, sustaining adequate ventilation and helping keep indoor air quality healthy. To secure the most benefit from an air filter, make sure to clean or exchange 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 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 around the blower and clean the blades with a microfiber cloth for more efficient airflow. If you’re hearing any strange noises or can't get any circulation from the vents, call a professional technician to check your blower.
4. Look 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 flaws in the condenser unit outside can worsen all kinds of comfort problems, including heat escaping before it moves into your ductwork. If there is obvious damage, talk to your local technician at H & H Service Company about inspecting the system before the temperatures start falling. This way you can avoid letting a slight flaw in the system grow into a major problem.
5. Test Your Furnace Before It Gets Too Cold
It's always wise to make sure your heating or cooling is working properly before the middle of winter. If you don't, your heating might be unprepared for the first true drop in temperatures. Doing a test run of your furnace can provide the opportunity to recognize potential problems then and there, while they're still easier to resolve. This also eliminates any dust that might have gathered in the air ducts during the fall, eliminating that burnt smell. When your furnace is in working shape, you can sled away from any 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 make an effort to get your furnace prepared in advance, you can spend the all winter 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 prepped for next winter!