When you think about winter, we hope you imagine a comfortable evening in your warm home. But every now and then winter doesn't feel like going along with our plans, and we're left shivering in our own homes. You may not be able to stop a blizzard from blowing through, but you can prevent your furnace and other HVAC equipment from being poorly equipped for winter. Nobody likes or deserves a faulty furnace, which is why we created this checklist for getting your HVAC system prepared for winter.
Five Ways to Prepare Your HVAC for a Cold Winter
1. Wrap up Your Outdoor Unit and Clear the Space Nearby
Since most HVAC systems have an outdoor condenser unit to discharge heat, you'll want to make sure that the area surrounding it is clean of any yard debris. Clear 5 feet of space or so from any vegetation or rocks. It's also recommended to make sure it's protected by a bit 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 evaluate and clean out your air filter, usually found in your furnace's indoor air handler. Dust, pollen, animal dander and many other contaminants can slowly accumulate in the air filter. If it goes unchecked, your furnace might lose efficiency and maybe even become a fire hazard. A clear air filter allows air to flow smoothly, maintaining adequate ventilation and helping keep indoor air quality healthy. To secure 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 crucial to your Lennox furnace, and as an essential component it can collect 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 optimum airflow. If you’re hearing any strange noises or aren't getting any circulation from the vents, get a professional technician to examine 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 can contribute to all kinds of comfort problems, like heat escaping before it reaches your ductwork. If there is obvious damage, talk to your local technician at Vogts Heating & Air about examining the system before the temperatures begin to drop. This way you can avoid letting a minor crack in the system transform into a major problem.
5. Test Your Equipment Before It Gets Too Cold
It's always smart to make sure your HVAC system is running properly before its busiest season. Otherwise, your furnace could be unprepared for the first real drop in temperatures. Doing a test run of your furnace can offer you the chance to notice potential problems early, while they're still easier to fix. This also burns off any dust that will often have gathered in the air ducts beforehand, removing that burnt smell. When your furnace is in working shape, you can sled away from your HVAC worries.
A Well-Prepared Furnace Is a Great Way to Welcome Winter
Winter weather is going to be heading this way before you know it. If you take the time to get your furnace prepped 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. Be sure to follow the tips above to get your home ready for next winter!