Use These Tips to Prep Your HVAC System for Winter

When you think of winter, we hope you think about a comfy evening at home. But once in a while 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 rolling through, but you can prevent your HVAC system from being unprepared for winter. Nobody prefers or deserves a broken-down furnace, which is why we created this checklist for getting your HVAC system ready for winter.

Five Ways to Prepare Your HVAC for Winter

1. Wrap up Your Outdoor Unit and Clear the Space Near It

Since most HVAC systems have an outdoor condenser unit to release heat, you'll want to see to it that the area nearby is free of any yard debris. Clear 5 feet of space or so from any leaves or objects. It's also smart to make sure it's covered by a section of tarp or similar material through the winter. This keeps ice and other debris from getting inside the condenser.

2. Rinse or Replace the Air Filter

Always check and clean out your air filter, usually found in your furnace's indoor air handler. Dust, pollen, animal dander and many other kinds of debris can slowly collect in the air filter. If it grows unchecked, your HVAC system can lose efficiency and possibly even become a fire hazard. A clear air filter helps air to flow smoothly, maintaining sufficient ventilation and helping keep indoor air quality healthy. To get the most benefit from an air filter, make sure to clean or replace it every two or three months or according to manufacturer instructions.

3. Clean the Blower

The blower is vital to your Lennox furnace, and as an essential component it can attract a lot of wear and tear. Cleaning it on occasion will help maintain strong performance. Vacuum the area next to the blower and clean the blades with a microfiber cloth for optimal airflow. If you’re hearing any unusual noises or aren't getting any circulation from the vents, call a professional technician to examine 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 damage to the condenser unit outside could worsen all sorts of comfort problems, like heat escaping before it moves into your ductwork. If there is noticeable damage, speak with your local technician at Central Air LLC about checking out the system before the temperatures start dropping. This way you can avoid letting a small flaw in the system transform into a major problem.

5. Test Your Equipment Before It Gets Too Cold

It's always practical to make sure your HVAC system is working properly before the middle of winter. If you don't, your HVAC system could be unprepared for the first significant drop in temperatures. Performing a test run of your heating can provide the opportunity to discover potential problems right away, while they're still easier to resolve. This also eliminates any dust that might have accumulated in the air ducts beforehand, getting rid of that burnt smell. When 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 should be on the way before you know it. If you spend some time to get your furnace prepared beforehand, 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!