Use These Tips to Prep Your HVAC System for Winter

When you think of winter, you hopefully think of a comfy evening at home. But every now and then winter doesn't feel like going along with our plans, and we end up shivering in our own homes. You may not be able to stop a blizzard from blowing through, but you can prevent your heating from being ill prepared for winter. Nobody likes or deserves a broken-down furnace, which is why we made this checklist for getting your HVAC system prepped for winter.

Five Ways to Prepare Your HVAC for a Winter Blast

1. Wrap up Your Outdoor Unit and Clean the Space Nearby

Since most HVAC systems have an outdoor condenser unit to dispel heat, you'll want to see to it that the area close to the unit itself is clear of any yard debris. Clean 5 feet of space or so from any plants or rocks. It's also a good idea to make sure it's protected by a piece of tarp or similar material during the winter. This keeps ice and anything else from getting inside the condenser.

2. Clean or Replace the Air Filter

Always inspect and clean out your air filter, usually placed in your furnace's indoor air handler. Dust, pollen, animal dander and many other materials can gradually collect in the air filter. If it grows unchecked, your heating can lose efficiency and potentially even become a fire hazard. A fresh air filter allows air to flow smoothly, maintaining sufficient ventilation and helping keep indoor air quality healthy. To secure the most benefit from your filter, make sure to clean or change it every two or three months or based on manufacturer instructions.

3. Clean the Blower

The blower is vital 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 clean the blades with a microfiber cloth for optimal airflow. If you hear any odd noises or are not getting any circulation from the vents, hire a professional technician to check out your blower.

4. Look 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 could contribute to all sorts of comfort problems, including heat leaking out before it moves into your ductwork. If there is noticeable damage, consult your local technician at Smyth Air Conditioning about checking out the system before the temperatures begin to drop. This way you can avoid letting a slight flaw in the system grow into a major problem.

5. Test Your Equipment Before It Gets Too Cold

It's always wise to make sure your HVAC system is functioning properly before its busiest season. If you don't, your heating might be unprepared for the first real drop in temperatures. Doing a test run of your heating can provide the chance to detect potential problems early, while they're still more straightforward to correct. This also burns away any dust that might have accumulated in the air ducts during the fall, eliminating that burnt smell. Once your furnace is in working condition, 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 on its way before you know it. If you make an effort to get your furnace prepped beforehand, you can spend the winter enjoying the holidays, sipping hot cocoa or relaxing with your family inside a warm, cozy home. Don't forget to follow the tips above to get your home ready for next winter!