Use These Tips to Prep Your HVAC System for Winter

When you think about winter, ideally you think of a comfy evening curled up by the fire. But every now and then winter decides not 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 rolling through, but you can prevent your HVAC system from being ill prepared for winter. Nobody wants or deserves a broken-down 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 Nearby

Since most HVAC systems have an outdoor condenser unit to dispel heat, you'll want to see to it that the area surrounding it is free of any yard debris. Clean 5 feet of space or so from any vegetation or sticks. It's also smart to make sure it's protected by a bit 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, normally located in your furnace's indoor air handler. Dust, pollen, animal dander and many other contaminants can gradually build up in the air filter. If it continues unchecked, your HVAC system might lose efficiency and maybe even become a fire hazard. A clear air filter allows air to flow smoothly, sustaining sufficient ventilation and helping keep indoor air quality higher. To get the most benefit from an air filter, make sure to clean or exchange it every couple of months or based on manufacturer instructions.

3. Clean the Blower

The blower is essential to your Lennox furnace, and as an integral component it can attract a lot of wear and tear. Cleaning it now and then will help maintain strong performance. Vacuum the area near the blower and clean the blades with a microfiber cloth for optimal airflow. If you notice any unusual noises or aren't getting any circulation from the vents, call a professional technician to examine your blower.

4. Search 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 may play a role in all sorts of comfort problems, like heat escaping before it makes it to your ductwork. If there is significant damage, talk to your local technician at Ameri-Tec about examining the system before the temperatures start falling. 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 practical to make sure your HVAC system is working properly before the middle of winter. Otherwise, your furnace could be unequipped for the first true drop in temperatures. Conducting a test run of your furnace can give you the opportunity to recognize potential problems early, while they're still more straightforward to resolve. This also burns off any dust that might have piled up in the air ducts beforehand, getting rid of that burnt smell. Once 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 on its 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 hanging out with your family inside a warm, cozy home. Be sure to follow the tips above to get your home prepared for next winter!