When you imagine winter, ideally you think of a comfortable evening curled up by the fire. But once in a while winter doesn't want to go along with our plans, and we're left shivering in our own homes. You might not be able to prevent a blizzard from blowing through, but you can prevent your HVAC system from being ill prepared for winter. Nobody likes or deserves a faulty furnace, which is why we prepared this checklist for getting your HVAC system ready for winter.
Five Ways to Prepare Your HVAC for a Cold Winter
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 see to it that the area close to the unit itself is clear of any yard debris. Clean 5 feet of space or so from any plants or objects. It's also smart to make sure it's protected by a piece of tarp or similar material during the winter. This keeps ice and other problems from getting inside the condenser.
2. Clean or Replace the Air Filter
Always check and clean out your air filter, normally placed in your furnace's indoor air handler. Dust, pollen, animal dander and many other contaminants can slowly accumulate in the air filter. If it grows unchecked, your HVAC system could lose efficiency and potentially even become a fire hazard. A clean air filter allows air to flow more freely, maintaining adequate ventilation and helping keep indoor air quality healthy. To secure 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 essential to your Lennox furnace, and as an integral component it can accumulate a lot of wear and tear. Cleaning it now and then 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 unusual noises or are not getting any circulation from the vents, get a professional technician to check 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 a large dent in the condenser unit outside can worsen all manners of comfort problems, such as heat escaping before it moves into your ductwork. If there is noticeable damage, speak with your local technician at AW Heating & Air Conditioning about inspecting the system before the temperatures start falling. This way you can avoid letting a small crack in the system turn into a major problem.
5. Test Your Furnace Before It Gets Too Cold
It's always practical to make sure your heating or cooling is functioning properly before the middle of winter. Otherwise, your heating could be unprepared for the first true drop in temperatures. Conducting a test run of your furnace can offer you the chance to recognize potential problems right away, while they're still easier to correct. This also burns away any dust that may have accumulated in the air ducts over the fall, eliminating that burnt smell. When 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 will be heading this way before you know it. If you take the time to get your furnace prepared ahead of time, you can spend the rest of the season enjoying the holidays, having hot cocoa or hanging out with your family inside a warm, cozy home. Don't forget to follow the tips above to get your home prepared for next winter!
