When you think about winter, we hope you think about a comfortable evening curled up by the fire. 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 might not be able to prevent a blizzard from showing up, but you can prevent your furnace and other HVAC equipment from being ill prepared for winter. Nobody prefers or deserves a faulty furnace, which is why we made this checklist for getting your HVAC system prepped for winter.
Five Ways to Prepare Your HVAC for Winter
1. Wrap 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 ensure that the area nearby is clear of any yard debris. Clear 5 feet of space or so from any leaves or objects. It's also smart to ensure it's covered up by a section of tarp or similar material during the winter. This keeps ice and anything else from getting inside the condenser.
2. Clean or Replace the Air Filter
Always inspect and clean out your air filter, normally placed in your furnace's indoor air handler. Dust, pollen, animal dander and many other contaminants can steadily build up in the air filter. If it goes unchecked, your HVAC system might lose efficiency and possibly even become a fire hazard. A clean air filter helps air to flow smoothly, sustaining adequate ventilation and helping keep indoor air quality high. To enjoy the most benefit from an air filter, make sure to clean or replace it every couple of months or in line with manufacturer instructions.
3. Clean the Blower
The blower is crucial to your Lennox furnace, and as a key component it can attract a lot of wear and tear. Cleaning it once in a while will help it continue working at its best. Vacuum the area near the blower and brush the blades with a microfiber cloth for optimal airflow. If you hear any odd noises or aren't getting any circulation from the vents, get a professional technician to check your blower.
4. Search 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 damage to the condenser unit outside could play a role in all kinds of comfort problems, such as heat leaking out before it moves into your ductwork. If there is noticeable damage, consult your local technician at B & G HVAC about inspecting the system before the temperatures begin to drop. This way you can avoid letting a slight flaw in the system grow into a major problem.
5. Test Your Equipment Before It Gets Too Cold
It's always practical to make sure your furnace is working properly before the middle of winter. If you don't, your heating could be unequipped for the first real drop in temperatures. Performing a test run of your furnace can provide the opportunity to recognize potential problems then and there, while they're still more straightforward to fix. This also burns away any dust that will often have piled up in the air ducts over the fall, removing that burnt smell. When your furnace is in working order, you can sled away from your HVAC worries.
A Well-Maintained Furnace Is a Great Way to Welcome Winter
Winter weather should be on its way before you know it. If you make an effort to get your furnace ready ahead of time, you can spend the rest of the season enjoying the holidays, drinking hot cocoa or relaxing with your family inside a warm, cozy home. Be sure to follow the tips above to get your home prepared for next winter!
