When you think of winter, you hopefully imagine 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 might not be able to keep a blizzard from blowing through, but you can prevent your HVAC system from being unprepared for winter. Nobody prefers or deserves a faulty furnace, which is why we made this checklist for getting your HVAC system ready for winter.
Five Ways to Prepare Your HVAC for Winter
1. Cover up Your Outdoor Unit and Clear the Space Near It
Since most HVAC systems have an outdoor condenser unit to dispel heat, you'll want to see to it that the area nearby is clear of any yard debris. Clean 5 feet of space or so from any vegetation or objects. It's also a good idea to ensure it's protected by a section of tarp or similar material through the winter. This keeps ice and anything else from getting inside the condenser.
2. Clean 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 slowly accumulate in the air filter. If it continues unchecked, your heating could lose efficiency and maybe even become a fire hazard. A clean air filter enables air to flow more freely, sustaining adequate ventilation and helping keep indoor air quality higher. To secure the most benefit from the filter, make sure to clean or exchange it every few months or according to manufacturer instructions.
3. Clean the Blower
The blower is essential to your Lennox furnace, and as an essential component it can attract a lot of wear and tear. Cleaning it now and then will help maintain strong performance. Vacuum the area around the blower and rub the blades with a microfiber cloth for optimum airflow. If you hear any strange noises or aren't getting any circulation from the vents, hire a professional technician to examine your blower.
4. Search for Gaps or Dents in Your Furnace
Make sure that your furnace doesn't have visible damage on the inside or outside units. A hole in the air handler or damage to the condenser unit outside can play a role in all manners of comfort problems, including heat leaking out before it makes it to your ductwork. If there is noticeable damage, talk to your local technician at B & G HVAC about inspecting the system before the temperatures start dropping. This way you can avoid letting a small 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 functioning properly before its busiest season. If not, your HVAC system could be unprepared for the first true drop in temperatures. Conducting a test run of your furnace can offer you the chance to detect potential problems early, while they're still simpler to fix. This also burns away any dust that may have piled up in the air ducts over the fall, removing that burnt smell. When your furnace is in working order, 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 heading this way before you know it. If you make an effort to get your furnace prepped beforehand, you can spend the all winter enjoying the holidays, having 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!