When you think of winter, we hope you imagine a cozy evening in your warm home. But sometimes 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 unprepared for winter. Nobody wants or deserves a broken-down furnace, which is why we made this checklist for getting your HVAC system prepared for winter.
Five Ways to Prepare Your HVAC for Winter
1. Cover Your Outdoor Unit and Clean the Space Around It
Since most HVAC systems have an outdoor condenser unit to dispel heat, you'll want to make sure that the area close to the unit itself is free of any yard debris. Clear 5 feet of space or so from any plants or objects. It's also recommended to make sure it's protected by a bit of tarp or similar material through the winter. This keeps ice and other problems from getting inside the condenser.
2. Wash 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 goes unchecked, your heating can lose efficiency and potentially even become a fire hazard. A clear air filter allows air to flow more freely, sustaining sufficient ventilation and helping keep indoor air quality higher. To enjoy the most benefit from the filter, make sure to clean or change it every few months or according to manufacturer instructions.
3. Clean the Blower
The blower is essential to your Lennox furnace, and as a key component it can collect a lot of wear and tear. Cleaning it once in a while 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 odd noises or can't get any circulation from the vents, call 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 damage to the condenser unit outside could contribute to all kinds of comfort problems, such as heat leaking out before it moves into your ductwork. If there is obvious damage, consult your local technician at HCE Systems about checking out the system before the temperatures start dropping. This way you can avoid letting a small gap in the system turn into a major problem.
5. Test Your Furnace Before It Gets Too Cold
It's always smart to make sure your HVAC system is running properly before the middle of winter. If not, your furnace could be unprepared for the first true drop in temperatures. Conducting a test run of your furnace can offer you the opportunity to detect potential problems early, while they're still more straightforward to fix. This also removes any dust that may have piled up in the air ducts during the fall, getting rid of that burnt smell. When your furnace is in working condition, you can sled away from these HVAC worries.
A Well-Prepared Furnace Is a Great Way to Welcome Winter
Winter weather will be heading this way before you know it. If you spend some time to get your furnace prepared in advance, you can spend the all winter enjoying the holidays, having hot cocoa or relaxing with your family inside a warm, cozy home. Be sure to follow the tips above to get your home ready for next winter!