When you think about winter, you hopefully think about a comfy 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 prevent a blizzard from showing up, but you can prevent your furnace and other HVAC equipment from being poorly equipped for winter. Nobody prefers or deserves a faulty furnace, which is why we made this checklist for getting your HVAC system prepared for winter.
Five Ways to Prepare Your HVAC for a Winter Blast
1. Cover up Your Outdoor Unit and Clean the Space Nearby
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 plants or objects. It's also a good idea 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. Wash or Replace the Air Filter
Always inspect and clean out your air filter, customarily placed in your furnace's indoor air handler. Dust, pollen, animal dander and many other contaminants can gradually accumulate in the air filter. If it continues unchecked, your furnace could lose efficiency and possibly even become a fire hazard. A fresh air filter enables air to flow more freely, sustaining adequate ventilation and helping keep indoor air quality higher. To enjoy the most benefit from the filter, make sure to clean or exchange it every few months or based on manufacturer instructions.
3. Clean the Blower
The blower is essential to your Lennox furnace, and as an essential component it can accumulate a lot of wear and tear. Cleaning it now and then will help it continue working at its best. Vacuum the area next to the blower and clean the blades with a microfiber cloth for optimal airflow. If you hear any unusual noises or aren't getting any circulation from the vents, get a professional technician to check out 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 flaws in the condenser unit outside could play a role in all kinds of comfort problems, such as heat escaping before it makes it to your ductwork. If there is noticeable damage, speak with your local technician at Three Rivers Heating & Cooling about examining the system before the temperatures start falling. This way you can avoid letting a small crack in the system turn into a major problem.
5. Test Your Furnace Before It Gets Too Cold
It's always practical to make sure your furnace is working properly before the middle of winter. If not, your HVAC system may be unequipped for the first real drop in temperatures. Doing a test run of your furnace can give you the chance to recognize potential problems right away, while they're still simpler to fix. This also eliminates any dust that will often have gathered in the air ducts over the fall, removing that burnt smell. Once your furnace is in working condition, you can sled away from your HVAC worries.
A Well-Prepared Furnace Is a Great Way to Welcome Winter
Winter weather will be on its way before you know it. If you spend some time to get your furnace ready beforehand, you can spend the winter enjoying the holidays, sipping hot cocoa or spending time with your family inside a warm, cozy home. Remember to follow the tips above to get your home prepared for next winter!
