When you imagine winter, we hope you think about a cozy evening curled up by the fire. But once in a while winter decides not to go along with our plans, and we're left shivering in our own homes. You won't always be able to stop a blizzard from showing up, but you can prevent your heating from being poorly equipped for winter. Nobody likes or deserves a broken-down furnace, which is why we prepared this checklist for getting your HVAC system ready for winter.
Five Ways to Prepare Your HVAC for a Winter Blast
1. Cover Your Outdoor Unit and Clear the Space Nearby
Since most HVAC systems have an outdoor condenser unit to release heat, you'll want to ensure that the area surrounding it is clear of any yard debris. Clean 5 feet of space or so from any vegetation or rocks. It's also recommended to ensure it's protected 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 check and clean out your air filter, usually placed in your furnace's indoor air handler. Dust, pollen, animal dander and many other materials can steadily collect in the air filter. If it continues unchecked, your HVAC system might lose efficiency and possibly even become a fire hazard. A fresh air filter enables air to flow more freely, sustaining adequate ventilation and helping keep indoor air quality healthy. To secure the most benefit from the filter, make sure to clean or exchange it every few months or based on manufacturer instructions.
3. Clean the Blower
The blower is vital to your Lennox furnace, and as a key component it can accumulate a lot of wear and tear. Cleaning it once in a while will help it continue working at its best. Vacuum the area near the blower and brush the blades with a microfiber cloth for optimal airflow. If you’re hearing any odd noises or aren't getting any circulation from the vents, hire a professional technician to check out your blower.
4. Check 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 could contribute to all sorts of comfort problems, like heat leaking out before it moves into your ductwork. If there is significant damage, speak with your local technician at Premium Air Services LLC about inspecting the system before the temperatures start dropping. This way you can avoid letting a minor flaw in the system transform into a major problem.
5. Test Your Heating Before It Gets Too Cold
It's always wise to make sure your HVAC system is working properly before the middle of winter. Otherwise, your heating may be unprepared for the first significant drop in temperatures. Doing a test run of your heating can provide the opportunity to detect potential problems early, while they're still more straightforward to solve. This also eliminates any dust that might have gathered in the air ducts beforehand, eliminating that burnt smell. When your furnace is in working condition, you can sled away from your HVAC worries.
A Well-Prepared Furnace Is a Great Way to Welcome Winter
Winter weather is going to be on the way before you know it. If you make an effort to get your furnace prepared in advance, you can spend the all winter enjoying the holidays, drinking hot cocoa or spending time with your family inside a warm, cozy home. Be sure to follow the tips above to get your home ready for next winter!