When you imagine winter, ideally you think of a comfy evening in your warm home. But sometimes winter doesn't want to go along with our plans, and we end up shivering in our own homes. You may not be able to keep a blizzard from blowing through, but you can prevent your HVAC system from being unprepared for winter. Nobody wants or deserves an unreliable furnace, which is why we made this checklist for getting your HVAC system prepared for winter.
Five Ways to Prepare Your HVAC for Winter
1. Cover up Your Outdoor Unit and Clear the Space Near It
Since most HVAC systems have an outdoor condenser unit to release 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 objects. It's also smart to ensure it's protected by a bit of tarp or similar material during the winter. This keeps ice and anything else from getting inside the condenser.
2. Wash or Replace the Air Filter
Always inspect and clean out your air filter, normally located in your furnace's indoor air handler. Dust, pollen, animal dander and many other materials can gradually collect in the air filter. If it grows unchecked, your HVAC system might lose efficiency and possibly even become a fire hazard. A clear air filter helps air to flow easily, sustaining good ventilation and helping keep indoor air quality healthy. To enjoy the most benefit from the filter, make sure to clean or replace it every two or three months or according to manufacturer instructions.
3. Clean the Blower
The blower is vital to your Lennox furnace, and as an integral component it can collect 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 clean the blades with a microfiber cloth for more efficient airflow. If you hear any strange noises or aren't getting any circulation from the vents, hire a professional technician to examine 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 may worsen all sorts of comfort problems, such as heat leaking out before it moves into your ductwork. If there is significant damage, speak with your local technician at Mechanical Air Systems Co about examining the system before the temperatures start falling. This way you can avoid letting a slight gap in the system turn into a major problem.
5. Test Your Heating Before It Gets Too Cold
It's always smart to make sure your heating or cooling is running properly before its busiest season. If not, your heating could be unequipped for the first true drop in temperatures. Performing a test run of your furnace can give you the opportunity to notice potential problems early, while they're still easier to resolve. This also burns away any dust that might have gathered in the air ducts over the fall, eliminating that burnt smell. Once your furnace is in working order, you can sled away from any HVAC worries.
A Well-Prepared Furnace Is a Great Way to Welcome Winter
Winter weather should be on the way before you know it. If you spend some time to get your furnace prepped beforehand, you can spend the winter enjoying the holidays, drinking hot cocoa or hanging out with your family inside a warm, cozy home. Remember to follow the tips above to get your home prepped for next winter!