When you imagine winter, you hopefully think of a comfortable evening curled up by the fire. But once in a while winter doesn't feel like going along with our plans, and we're left shivering in our own homes. You might not be able to keep a blizzard from rolling through, but you can prevent your heating from being poorly equipped for winter. Nobody wants or deserves a broken-down furnace, which is why we created this checklist for getting your HVAC system prepared for winter.
Five Ways to Prepare Your HVAC for a Winter Blast
1. Wrap up Your Outdoor Unit and Clean the Space Near It
Since most HVAC systems have an outdoor condenser unit to release heat, you'll want to make sure that the area surrounding it is free of any yard debris. Clear 5 feet of space or so from any vegetation or rocks. It's also a good idea to make sure it's protected by a section of tarp or similar material during the winter. This keeps ice and other debris from getting inside the condenser.
2. Clean or Replace the Air Filter
Always evaluate 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 collect in the air filter. If it grows unchecked, your HVAC system could lose efficiency and maybe even become a fire hazard. A fresh air filter helps air to flow more freely, sustaining adequate ventilation and helping keep indoor air quality healthy. To secure the most benefit from the filter, make sure to clean or exchange it every couple of months or based on manufacturer instructions.
3. Clean the Blower
The blower is essential to your Lennox furnace, and as an integral component it can collect a lot of wear and tear. Cleaning it now and then will help keep it in great shape. Vacuum the area near the blower and brush the blades with a microfiber cloth for optimal airflow. If you notice any strange noises or are not getting any circulation from the vents, call 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 flaws in the condenser unit outside may contribute to all sorts of comfort problems, including heat escaping before it makes it to your ductwork. If there is noticeable damage, speak with your local technician at TopTec Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electrical 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 Heating Before It Gets Too Cold
It's always smart to make sure your furnace is functioning properly before its busiest season. If not, your furnace may be unprepared for the first true drop in temperatures. Performing a test run of your heating can offer you the chance to discover potential problems early, while they're still easier to correct. This also removes any dust that will often have piled up in the air ducts during the fall, removing that burnt smell. As soon as your furnace is in working condition, you can sled away from any HVAC worries.
A Well-Maintained Furnace Is a Great Way to Welcome Winter
Winter weather will be heading this way before you know it. If you make an effort to get your furnace prepped in advance, you can spend the winter enjoying the holidays, having 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!