When you imagine winter, ideally you think of a comfy evening at home. But every now and then winter doesn't feel like going along with our plans, and we're stuck shivering in our own homes. You may not be able to keep a blizzard from showing up, but you can prevent your HVAC system from being unprepared for winter. Nobody wants or deserves a faulty furnace, which is why we prepared 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 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 surrounding it is clean of any yard debris. Clear 5 feet of space or so from any leaves or rocks. It's also a good idea 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 inspect 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 build up in the air filter. If it grows unchecked, your heating could lose efficiency and potentially even become a fire hazard. A clear air filter helps air to flow easily, maintaining sufficient ventilation and helping keep indoor air quality healthy. To get the most benefit from your filter, make sure to clean or change it every few months or in line with manufacturer instructions.
3. Clean the Blower
The blower is crucial to your Lennox furnace, and as an integral component it can attract 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 optimum airflow. If you notice any strange noises or are not getting any circulation from the vents, call a professional technician to examine your blower.
4. Search 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 can contribute to all sorts of comfort problems, including heat escaping before it makes it to your ductwork. If there is noticeable damage, talk to your local technician at Diedrick's Heating and Air Conditioning about checking out the system before the temperatures start dropping. This way you can avoid letting a minor flaw in the system grow into a major problem.
5. Test Your Heating Before It Gets Too Cold
It's always wise to make sure your HVAC system is running properly before the middle of winter. Otherwise, your heating might be unequipped for the first true drop in temperatures. Performing a test run of your heating can provide the opportunity to notice potential problems then and there, while they're still more straightforward to correct. This also removes any dust that will often have piled up in the air ducts during the fall, removing 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 make an effort to get your furnace ready beforehand, you can spend the 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 prepped for next winter!