When you think of winter, ideally you imagine 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 stop a blizzard from rolling through, but you can prevent your HVAC system from being unprepared for winter. Nobody wants or deserves an unreliable furnace, which is why we made 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 Clean the Space Near It
Since most HVAC systems have an outdoor condenser unit to dispel heat, you'll want to make sure that the area close to the unit itself is free of any yard debris. Clear 5 feet of space or so from any vegetation or sticks. It's also a good idea to make sure it's protected by a section of tarp or similar material over the winter. This keeps ice and other problems from getting inside the condenser.
2. Clean or Replace the Air Filter
Always inspect and clean out your air filter, customarily found in your furnace's indoor air handler. Dust, pollen, animal dander and many other contaminants can gradually collect in the air filter. If it continues unchecked, your heating can lose efficiency and maybe even become a fire hazard. A clear air filter allows air to flow smoothly, maintaining sufficient ventilation and helping keep indoor air quality healthy. To secure the most benefit from the filter, make sure to clean or replace it every two or three months or in line with manufacturer instructions.
3. Clean the Blower
The blower is essential to your Lennox furnace, and as an integral component it can attract a lot of wear and tear. Cleaning it now and then will help maintain strong performance. Vacuum the area around the blower and brush 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 can play a role in all manners of comfort problems, such as heat leaking out before it moves into your ductwork. If there is significant damage, consult your local technician at Haselhoff Air Solutions about inspecting the system before the temperatures start dropping. This way you can avoid letting a slight crack 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 heating or cooling is running properly before its busiest season. Otherwise, your HVAC system may be unprepared for the first real drop in temperatures. Performing a test run of your heating can provide the opportunity to detect potential problems early, while they're still easier to resolve. This also eliminates any dust that may have accumulated in the air ducts during the fall, getting rid of that burnt smell. As soon as your furnace is in working order, you can sled away from any HVAC worries.
A Well-Prepared Furnace Is a Great Way to Welcome Winter
Winter weather will be heading this way before you know it. If you take the time to get your furnace prepared ahead of time, you can spend the all winter enjoying the holidays, drinking hot cocoa or spending time with your family inside a warm, cozy home. Don't forget to follow the tips above to get your home prepared for next winter!