Use These Tips to Prepare Your HVAC System for Winter

When you think of winter, you hopefully think of a comfy evening curled up by the fire. But sometimes winter doesn't want to go along with our plans, and we end up shivering in our own homes. You may not be able to stop a blizzard from rolling through, but you can prevent your HVAC system from being unprepared for winter. Nobody prefers or deserves an unreliable furnace, which is why we created this checklist for getting your HVAC system prepped for winter.

Five Ways to Prepare Your HVAC for a Winter Blast

1. Cover up Your Outdoor Unit and Clean the Space Around 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 clean of any yard debris. Clean 5 feet of space or so from any vegetation or objects. It's also a good idea to ensure it's covered by a piece of tarp or similar material through the winter. This keeps ice and other problems from getting inside the condenser.

2. Rinse or Replace the Air Filter

Always inspect and clean out your air filter, usually located in your furnace's indoor air handler. Dust, pollen, animal dander and many other contaminants can gradually collect in the air filter. If it goes unchecked, your furnace might lose efficiency and potentially even become a fire hazard. A clear air filter helps air to flow smoothly, maintaining good ventilation and helping keep indoor air quality high. To enjoy 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 essential to your Lennox furnace, and as an essential component it can accumulate a lot of wear and tear. Cleaning it once in a while will help keep it in great shape. Vacuum the area next to the blower and rub the blades with a microfiber cloth for optimal airflow. If you notice any odd noises or can't get any circulation from the vents, hire a professional technician to check your blower.

4. Check 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 can worsen all sorts of comfort problems, like heat escaping before it moves into your ductwork. If there is noticeable damage, talk to your local technician at I-Deal HVAC about checking out the system before the temperatures start dropping. This way you can avoid letting a small flaw 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 HVAC system is working properly before its busiest season. Otherwise, your furnace may be unequipped for the first real drop in temperatures. Conducting a test run of your furnace can give you the chance to detect potential problems right away, while they're still easier to fix. This also eliminates any dust that may have gathered in the air ducts during the fall, eliminating that burnt smell. When your furnace is in working order, you can sled away from your 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 spend some time to get your furnace prepared ahead of time, you can spend the rest of the season enjoying the holidays, sipping 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!