When you think about winter, we hope you think about a comfy evening at home. But every now and then winter doesn't want to go along with our plans, and we're left shivering in our own homes. You won't always be able to keep a blizzard from rolling through, but you can prevent your HVAC system from being poorly equipped for winter. Nobody wants or deserves a broken-down furnace, which is why we created 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 ensure that the area surrounding it is clean of any yard debris. Clear 5 feet of space or so from any vegetation or sticks. It's also recommended to make sure it's covered by a section of tarp or similar material through the winter. This keeps ice and other debris from getting inside the condenser.
2. Clean or Replace the Air Filter
Always inspect and clean out your air filter, customarily found in your furnace's indoor air handler. Dust, pollen, animal dander and many other materials can slowly build up in the air filter. If it goes unchecked, your furnace might lose efficiency and maybe even become a fire hazard. A clear air filter helps air to flow more freely, maintaining adequate ventilation and helping keep indoor air quality higher. To get the most benefit from the filter, make sure to clean or replace it every few 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 keep it in great shape. Vacuum the area next to the blower and clean the blades with a microfiber cloth for more efficient airflow. If you notice any strange noises or aren't getting any circulation from the vents, hire a professional technician to check out 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 damage to the condenser unit outside could 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 Mayeuxs AC & Heating about examining the system before the temperatures start dropping. This way you can avoid letting a slight flaw in the system turn into a major problem.
5. Test Your Equipment Before It Gets Too Cold
It's always smart to make sure your HVAC system is running properly before its busiest season. If you don't, your HVAC system could be unequipped for the first real drop in temperatures. Performing a test run of your heating can provide the chance to detect potential problems early, while they're still simpler to correct. This also eliminates any dust that may have piled up in the air ducts during 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 beforehand, you can spend the winter enjoying the holidays, drinking hot cocoa or hanging out with your family inside a warm, cozy home. Be sure to follow the tips above to get your home prepared for next winter!
