When you think about winter, ideally you think of a comfy evening in your warm home. But every now and then winter decides not to go along with our plans, and we're left shivering in our own homes. You may not be able to prevent a blizzard from blowing through, but you can prevent your HVAC system from being unprepared for winter. Nobody likes or deserves a faulty 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. Wrap up Your Outdoor Unit and Clean 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 surrounding it is clean of any yard debris. Clear 5 feet of space or so from any vegetation or objects. It's also a good idea to ensure it's covered by a section of tarp or similar material over the winter. This keeps ice and other debris from getting inside the condenser.
2. Wash or Replace the Air Filter
Always inspect and clean out your air filter, usually found in your furnace's indoor air handler. Dust, pollen, animal dander and many other kinds of debris can gradually collect in the air filter. If it grows unchecked, your furnace can lose efficiency and possibly even become a fire hazard. A clear air filter allows air to flow smoothly, maintaining good ventilation and helping keep indoor air quality higher. To get the most benefit from an air filter, make sure to clean or replace it every couple of months or according to manufacturer instructions.
3. Clean the Blower
The blower is vital to your Lennox furnace, and as a key component it can collect a lot of wear and tear. Cleaning it on occasion will help maintain strong performance. Vacuum the area around the blower and rub the blades with a microfiber cloth for more efficient airflow. If you hear any odd 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 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 sorts of comfort problems, including heat leaking out before it moves into your ductwork. If there is noticeable damage, talk to your local technician at Patterson & Stirling about inspecting the system before the temperatures start dropping. This way you can avoid letting a minor gap in the system transform into a major problem.
5. Test Your Equipment Before It Gets Too Cold
It's always smart to make sure your furnace is running properly before the middle of winter. If not, your HVAC system could be unequipped for the first true drop in temperatures. Performing a test run of your heating can give you the chance to notice potential problems early, while they're still more straightforward to resolve. This also burns off any dust that might have piled up in the air ducts beforehand, getting rid of that burnt smell. Once 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 is going to be on its way before you know it. If you make an effort to get your furnace ready in advance, you can spend the winter enjoying the holidays, drinking hot cocoa or relaxing with your family inside a warm, cozy home. Remember to follow the tips above to get your home prepared for next winter!
