Use These Tips to Prep Your HVAC System for Winter

When you think of winter, ideally you imagine 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 won't always be able to stop a blizzard from showing up, but you can prevent your HVAC system from being unprepared for winter. Nobody prefers or deserves a faulty furnace, which is why we prepared 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 Clear the Space Around It

Since most HVAC systems have an outdoor condenser unit to dispel heat, you'll want to ensure that the area nearby 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 covered up 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 evaluate and clean out your air filter, usually found in your furnace's indoor air handler. Dust, pollen, animal dander and many other materials can gradually accumulate in the air filter. If it continues unchecked, your furnace could lose efficiency and maybe even become a fire hazard. A clear air filter allows air to flow easily, sustaining adequate ventilation and helping keep indoor air quality healthy. To secure the most benefit from the 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 essential to your Lennox furnace, and as a key component it can collect a lot of wear and tear. Cleaning it on occasion will help it continue working at its best. Vacuum the area around the blower and rub the blades with a microfiber cloth for optimum airflow. If you’re hearing any odd noises or are not getting any circulation from the vents, hire a professional technician to examine 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 a large dent in the condenser unit outside can worsen all manners of comfort problems, such as heat leaking out before it reaches your ductwork. If there is significant damage, speak with your local technician at Knoechel Heating about checking out the system before the temperatures start dropping. This way you can avoid letting a minor crack in the system transform into a major problem.

5. Test Your Furnace Before It Gets Too Cold

It's always smart to make sure your furnace is working properly before the middle of winter. Otherwise, your HVAC system might be unequipped for the first true drop in temperatures. Performing a test run of your furnace can provide the chance to recognize potential problems right away, while they're still easier to solve. This also eliminates any dust that may have accumulated in the air ducts beforehand, removing that burnt smell. Once your furnace is in working shape, you can sled away from these HVAC worries.

A Well-Prepared Furnace Is a Great Way to Welcome Winter

Winter weather is going to be on its way before you know it. If you take the time to get your furnace prepped in advance, you can spend the rest of the season enjoying the holidays, having hot cocoa or hanging out with your family inside a warm, cozy home. Remember to follow the tips above to get your home prepped for next winter!