When you think about winter, ideally you think of a comfortable evening at 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 might not be able to keep a blizzard from showing up, but you can prevent your heating from being unprepared for winter. Nobody wants or deserves a broken-down furnace, which is why we prepared this checklist for getting your HVAC system prepared for winter.
Five Ways to Prepare Your HVAC for a Cold Winter
1. Cover 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 vegetation or objects. It's also recommended to make sure it's covered by a bit of tarp or similar material during the winter. This keeps ice and anything else from getting inside the condenser.
2. Rinse or Replace the Air Filter
Always inspect 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 accumulate in the air filter. If it grows unchecked, your HVAC system could lose efficiency and possibly even become a fire hazard. A clear air filter enables air to flow more freely, sustaining adequate ventilation and helping keep indoor air quality healthy. To enjoy the most benefit from an air filter, make sure to clean or replace it every few months or in line with manufacturer instructions.
3. Clean the Blower
The blower is vital 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 more efficient airflow. If you’re hearing any strange noises or can't get any circulation from the vents, hire a professional technician to check out 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 flaws in the condenser unit outside could worsen all kinds of comfort problems, like heat escaping before it moves into your ductwork. If there is significant damage, consult your local technician at Kirkfield Heating & Air Conditioning about examining the system before the temperatures begin to drop. This way you can avoid letting a small gap in the system grow into a major problem.
5. Test Your Equipment Before It Gets Too Cold
It's always smart to make sure your furnace is functioning properly before its busiest season. If not, your furnace may be unequipped for the first true drop in temperatures. Performing a test run of your heating can provide the opportunity to detect potential problems early, 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, getting rid of that burnt smell. When your furnace is in working condition, you can sled away from these HVAC worries.
A Well-Maintained Furnace Is a Great Way to Welcome Winter
Winter weather is going to be on its way before you know it. If you spend some time to get your furnace prepped in advance, 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 ready for next winter!
