When you think of winter, you hopefully think about a cozy evening in your warm home. But sometimes winter doesn't feel like going along with our plans, and we're left shivering in our own homes. You might not be able to keep a blizzard from showing up, but you can prevent your HVAC system from being poorly equipped for winter. Nobody wants or deserves an unreliable furnace, which is why we made this checklist for getting your HVAC system ready for winter.
Five Ways to Prepare Your HVAC for Winter
1. Cover up Your Outdoor Unit and Clean the Space Near It
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 free of any yard debris. Clear 5 feet of space or so from any leaves or sticks. It's also recommended to make sure it's covered up by a bit of tarp or similar material over the winter. This keeps ice and other problems from getting inside the condenser.
2. Rinse or Replace the Air Filter
Always inspect and clean out your air filter, normally found in your furnace's indoor air handler. Dust, pollen, animal dander and many other contaminants can gradually build up in the air filter. If it goes unchecked, your furnace could lose efficiency and maybe even become a fire hazard. A clear air filter enables air to flow smoothly, sustaining good ventilation and helping keep indoor air quality higher. To secure the most benefit from your filter, make sure to clean or replace it every couple of months or based on manufacturer instructions.
3. Clean the Blower
The blower is vital to your Lennox furnace, and as an integral component it can attract a lot of wear and tear. Cleaning it once in a while will help it continue working at its best. Vacuum the area next to the blower and brush the blades with a microfiber cloth for optimal airflow. If you hear any strange noises or are not getting any circulation from the vents, hire a professional technician to check 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 damage to the condenser unit outside may play a role in all sorts of comfort problems, including heat escaping before it makes it to your ductwork. If there is noticeable damage, speak with your local technician at Walter's-Eaton's Electric, Plumbing, Heating & AC about inspecting the system before the temperatures begin to drop. This way you can avoid letting a small flaw in the system turn into a major problem.
5. Test Your Furnace Before It Gets Too Cold
It's always smart to make sure your heating or cooling is working properly before its busiest season. If not, your furnace could be unequipped for the first significant drop in temperatures. Doing a test run of your heating can give you the opportunity to recognize potential problems early, while they're still easier to resolve. This also burns away any dust that may have accumulated in the air ducts over the fall, eliminating that burnt smell. When your furnace is in working condition, you can sled away from these HVAC worries.
A Well-Prepared Furnace Is a Great Way to Welcome Winter
Winter weather is going to be on its way before you know it. If you spend some time to get your furnace prepped ahead of time, you can spend the rest of the season enjoying the holidays, sipping 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!
