When you think about winter, you hopefully think of a comfy evening at home. But once in a while winter doesn't feel like going along with our plans, and we end up shivering in our own homes. You may not be able to stop a blizzard from showing up, but you can prevent your HVAC system from being ill prepared for winter. Nobody likes 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. Wrap up Your Outdoor Unit and Clean the Space Nearby
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 clear of any yard debris. Clear 5 feet of space or so from any plants or rocks. It's also a good idea to ensure it's covered by a section of tarp or similar material over the winter. This keeps ice and anything else from getting inside the condenser.
2. Wash or Replace the Air Filter
Always inspect and clean out your air filter, normally located in your furnace's indoor air handler. Dust, pollen, animal dander and many other kinds of debris can steadily accumulate in the air filter. If it goes unchecked, your furnace can lose efficiency and possibly even become a fire hazard. A clear air filter helps air to flow smoothly, maintaining good ventilation and helping keep indoor air quality higher. To enjoy the most benefit from the filter, make sure to clean or change it every couple of months or in line with 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 on occasion will help keep it in great shape. 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 aren't getting any circulation from the vents, get 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 may contribute to all kinds of comfort problems, like heat leaking out before it reaches your ductwork. If there is obvious damage, speak with your local technician at Childress Heating & AC 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 Heating Before It Gets Too Cold
It's always wise to make sure your HVAC system is running properly before its busiest season. Otherwise, your heating may be unprepared for the first real drop in temperatures. Doing a test run of your furnace can offer you the chance to discover potential problems right away, while they're still simpler to correct. This also burns away any dust that may have gathered in the air ducts over the fall, getting rid of that burnt smell. When your furnace is in working condition, 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 make an effort to get your furnace prepared in advance, you can spend the all winter enjoying the holidays, having hot cocoa or hanging out with your family inside a warm, cozy home. Remember to follow the tips above to get your home prepared for next winter!