Ensure Peak Performance with Our Winter HVAC Checklist

When you think about winter, ideally you think of a comfy evening in your warm home. But every now and then winter doesn't want to go along with our plans, and we're left shivering in our own homes. You may not be able to keep a blizzard from blowing through, but you can prevent your HVAC system from being poorly equipped for winter. Nobody wants 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 a Cold Winter

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

Since most HVAC systems have an outdoor condenser unit to release heat, you'll want to ensure that the area nearby is free of any yard debris. Clean 5 feet of space or so from any vegetation or objects. It's also smart to make sure it's covered up by a section of tarp or similar material during 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, customarily located in your furnace's indoor air handler. Dust, pollen, animal dander and many other materials can gradually build up in the air filter. If it grows unchecked, your furnace can lose efficiency and potentially even become a fire hazard. A clear air filter allows air to flow smoothly, maintaining sufficient ventilation and helping keep indoor air quality high. To secure the most benefit from the filter, make sure to clean or exchange it every few months or according to 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 now and then will help maintain strong performance. Vacuum the area next to the blower and brush the blades with a microfiber cloth for optimal airflow. If you’re hearing any odd noises or can't get any circulation from the vents, call a professional technician to check your blower.

4. Search for Gaps or Dents in Your Furnace

Make sure that your furnace doesn't have visible damage on the inside or outside units. A hole in the air handler or damage to the condenser unit outside may contribute to all sorts of comfort problems, like heat leaking out before it makes it to your ductwork. If there is obvious damage, consult your local technician at Refrigeration Systems Ltd. about examining 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 smart to make sure your heating or cooling is running properly before its busiest season. If not, your heating may be unprepared for the first true drop in temperatures. Doing a test run of your furnace can provide the opportunity to discover potential problems early, while they're still easier to resolve. This also burns away any dust that may have gathered in the air ducts beforehand, getting rid of that burnt smell. When your furnace is in working shape, you can sled away from any HVAC worries.

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

Winter weather is going to be heading this way before you know it. If you make an effort to get your furnace prepped beforehand, you can spend the all winter enjoying the holidays, sipping hot cocoa or spending time with your family inside a warm, cozy home. Remember to follow the tips above to get your home prepped for next winter!