When you think about winter, ideally you think about a cozy evening in your warm 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 rolling through, but you can prevent your HVAC system from being poorly equipped for winter. Nobody wants or deserves an unreliable furnace, which is why we created 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 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 nearby is free of any yard debris. Clean 5 feet of space or so from any plants or sticks. It's also smart to ensure it's covered up by a section of tarp or similar material through the winter. This keeps ice and other problems from getting inside the condenser.
2. Rinse or Replace the Air Filter
Always evaluate and clean out your air filter, usually found in your furnace's indoor air handler. Dust, pollen, animal dander and many other kinds of debris can gradually accumulate in the air filter. If it grows unchecked, your furnace could lose efficiency and possibly even become a fire hazard. A clear air filter allows air to flow more freely, sustaining adequate ventilation and helping keep indoor air quality higher. To secure the most benefit from your filter, make sure to clean or change it every couple of 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 now and then will help maintain strong performance. Vacuum the area around the blower and clean the blades with a microfiber cloth for optimal airflow. If you’re hearing any strange noises or are not getting 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 a large dent in the condenser unit outside could worsen all kinds of comfort problems, like heat leaking out before it makes it to your ductwork. If there is obvious damage, talk to your local technician at Covington Air Systems about inspecting the system before the temperatures begin to drop. This way you can avoid letting a small crack in the system grow into a major problem.
5. Test Your Heating Before It Gets Too Cold
It's always practical to make sure your furnace is functioning properly before the middle of winter. Otherwise, your heating might be unprepared for the first true drop in temperatures. Conducting a test run of your furnace can give you the opportunity to detect potential problems then and there, while they're still easier to resolve. This also eliminates any dust that might have accumulated in the air ducts during the fall, eliminating 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 is going to be on its way before you know it. If you make an effort to get your furnace ready beforehand, you can spend the winter enjoying the holidays, sipping hot cocoa or hanging out with your family inside a warm, cozy home. Remember to follow the tips above to get your home prepped for next winter!