When you imagine winter, ideally you imagine a comfy evening at home. But every now and then winter doesn't want to go along with our plans, and we end up shivering in our own homes. You might not be able to prevent a blizzard from rolling through, but you can prevent your HVAC system from being poorly equipped for winter. Nobody likes or deserves a broken-down 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. Cover up Your Outdoor Unit and Clear the Space Nearby
Since most HVAC systems have an outdoor condenser unit to discharge heat, you'll want to ensure that the area nearby is clear of any yard debris. Clear 5 feet of space or so from any vegetation or objects. It's also a good idea to ensure it's covered by a piece of tarp or similar material through the winter. This keeps ice and anything else from getting inside the condenser.
2. Wash or Replace the Air Filter
Always check and clean out your air filter, customarily located in your furnace's indoor air handler. Dust, pollen, animal dander and many other materials can slowly build up in the air filter. If it goes unchecked, your HVAC system could lose efficiency and potentially even become a fire hazard. A clean air filter helps air to flow smoothly, sustaining adequate ventilation and helping keep indoor air quality high. To get the most benefit from your filter, make sure to clean or replace it every few months or based on manufacturer instructions.
3. Clean the Blower
The blower is vital to your Lennox furnace, and as an integral component it can attract a lot of wear and tear. Cleaning it on occasion will help it continue working at its best. Vacuum the area around the blower and brush the blades with a microfiber cloth for optimal airflow. If you hear any strange noises or can't get any circulation from the vents, get a professional technician to examine your blower.
4. Look 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 flaws in the condenser unit outside can contribute to all kinds of comfort problems, including heat leaking out before it makes it to your ductwork. If there is significant damage, consult your local technician at Giordanos Heating and Air Conditioning about examining the system before the temperatures begin to drop. This way you can avoid letting a small gap in the system turn into a major problem.
5. Test Your Heating Before It Gets Too Cold
It's always smart to make sure your heating or cooling is functioning properly before the middle of winter. Otherwise, your heating might be unequipped for the first real drop in temperatures. Performing a test run of your furnace can give you the opportunity to notice potential problems right away, while they're still simpler to resolve. This also eliminates any dust that may have gathered in the air ducts beforehand, getting rid of that burnt smell. As soon as 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 on its way before you know it. If you make an effort to get your furnace prepped beforehand, you can spend the rest of the season enjoying the holidays, sipping 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 ready for next winter!