When you think of winter, you hopefully think about a comfortable evening at home. But once in a while winter doesn't feel like going along with our plans, and we're stuck shivering in our own homes. You might not be able to prevent a blizzard from blowing through, but you can prevent your heating from being ill prepared for winter. Nobody prefers or deserves an unreliable furnace, which is why we created this checklist for getting your HVAC system prepared for winter.
Five Ways to Prepare Your HVAC for a Winter Blast
1. Cover up Your Outdoor Unit and Clean the Space Nearby
Since most HVAC systems have an outdoor condenser unit to release heat, you'll want to see to it that the area nearby is free of any yard debris. Clear 5 feet of space or so from any plants or sticks. It's also smart to ensure it's covered up by a bit of tarp or similar material during the winter. This keeps ice and other problems from getting inside the condenser.
2. Rinse or Replace the Air Filter
Always check and clean out your air filter, usually found in your furnace's indoor air handler. Dust, pollen, animal dander and many other contaminants can gradually accumulate in the air filter. If it continues unchecked, your heating might lose efficiency and potentially even become a fire hazard. A clear air filter allows air to flow more freely, sustaining adequate ventilation and helping keep indoor air quality high. To secure the most benefit from the filter, make sure to clean or replace it every few months or in line with manufacturer instructions.
3. Clean the Blower
The blower is crucial to your Lennox furnace, and as a key component it can attract a lot of wear and tear. Cleaning it once in a while will help maintain strong performance. Vacuum the area next to the blower and clean the blades with a microfiber cloth for more efficient airflow. If you notice any odd noises or can't get any circulation from the vents, get a professional technician to check out 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 flaws in the condenser unit outside can play a role in all kinds of comfort problems, like heat leaking out before it moves into your ductwork. If there is significant damage, talk to your local technician at Jack's Heating, Cooling, Stoves & Fireplaces 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 practical to make sure your HVAC system is working properly before its busiest season. If not, your heating may be unequipped for the first significant drop in temperatures. Conducting a test run of your furnace can offer you the opportunity to discover potential problems early, while they're still easier to resolve. This also burns off any dust that might have gathered in the air ducts over the fall, eliminating that burnt smell. As soon as your furnace is in working shape, you can sled away from your HVAC worries.
A Well-Maintained Furnace Is a Great Way to Welcome Winter
Winter weather should be on the way before you know it. If you make an effort to get your furnace ready in advance, you can spend the all 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!