When you think about winter, we hope you think about a cozy 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 won't always be able to stop a blizzard from blowing through, but you can prevent your heating from being ill prepared for winter. Nobody likes or deserves an unreliable 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. Wrap up Your Outdoor Unit and Clean the Space Nearby
Since most HVAC systems have an outdoor condenser unit to dispel heat, you'll want to make sure that the area nearby is clean of any yard debris. Clear 5 feet of space or so from any plants or rocks. It's also a good idea to ensure it's covered up by a section of tarp or similar material over the winter. This keeps ice and other debris from getting inside the condenser.
2. Clean or Replace the Air Filter
Always check and clean out your air filter, normally located in your furnace's indoor air handler. Dust, pollen, animal dander and many other materials can slowly accumulate in the air filter. If it goes unchecked, your HVAC system might lose efficiency and potentially even become a fire hazard. A clear air filter enables air to flow more freely, maintaining sufficient ventilation and helping keep indoor air quality higher. To secure the most benefit from your filter, make sure to clean or exchange it every couple of months or according to manufacturer instructions.
3. Clean the Blower
The blower is crucial to your Lennox furnace, and as an essential component it can attract a lot of wear and tear. Cleaning it on occasion will help maintain strong performance. Vacuum the area around the blower and clean the blades with a microfiber cloth for optimal airflow. If you notice any unusual noises or are not getting any circulation from the vents, call a professional technician to check your blower.
4. Look 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 damage to the condenser unit outside can worsen all kinds of comfort problems, including heat escaping before it reaches your ductwork. If there is noticeable damage, consult your local technician at Fleming Heating & Air Conditioning Inc about examining the system before the temperatures begin to drop. This way you can avoid letting a small flaw in the system transform into a major problem.
5. Test Your Furnace Before It Gets Too Cold
It's always practical to make sure your HVAC system is working properly before the middle of winter. Otherwise, your heating might be unprepared for the first true drop in temperatures. Doing a test run of your furnace can give you the opportunity to notice potential problems early, while they're still simpler to resolve. This also removes any dust that will often have accumulated in the air ducts beforehand, removing 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 is going to be on the way before you know it. If you make an effort to get your furnace prepped ahead of time, you can spend the all winter enjoying the holidays, sipping 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!
