Ensure Peak Performance with Our Winter HVAC Checklist

When you imagine winter, you hopefully think about a cozy evening curled up by the fire. But every now and then winter doesn't feel like going along with our plans, and we're left shivering in our own homes. You may not be able to stop a blizzard from showing up, but you can prevent your HVAC system from being poorly equipped for winter. Nobody likes or deserves a faulty furnace, which is why we prepared this checklist for getting your HVAC system prepared 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 discharge heat, you'll want to make sure that the area nearby is clean of any yard debris. Clear 5 feet of space or so from any vegetation or sticks. It's also a good idea to ensure it's covered by a section of tarp or similar material during the winter. This keeps ice and other problems from getting inside the condenser.

2. Clean or Replace the Air Filter

Always check and clean out your air filter, usually placed in your furnace's indoor air handler. Dust, pollen, animal dander and many other kinds of debris can steadily collect in the air filter. If it goes unchecked, your furnace can lose efficiency and maybe even become a fire hazard. A clean air filter helps air to flow smoothly, maintaining adequate ventilation and helping keep indoor air quality healthy. To enjoy the most benefit from an air filter, make sure to clean or replace it every couple of months or according to manufacturer instructions.

3. Clean the Blower

The blower is essential to your Lennox furnace, and as a key component it can attract a lot of wear and tear. Cleaning it now and then will help maintain strong performance. Vacuum the area around the blower and clean the blades with a microfiber cloth for more efficient airflow. If you’re hearing any strange noises or aren't getting any circulation from the vents, hire a professional technician to examine 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 flaws in the condenser unit outside may worsen all sorts of comfort problems, such as heat leaking out before it reaches your ductwork. If there is obvious damage, speak with your local technician at County Line Mechanical LLC about inspecting the system before the temperatures start dropping. This way you can avoid letting a slight crack in the system transform into a major problem.

5. Test Your Equipment Before It Gets Too Cold

It's always practical to make sure your heating or cooling is working properly before its busiest season. If you don't, your heating may be unequipped for the first true drop in temperatures. Doing a test run of your heating can provide the chance to discover potential problems then and there, 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. When your furnace is in working shape, you can sled away from your HVAC worries.

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

Winter weather is going to be on the way before you know it. If you make an effort to get your furnace ready 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. Remember to follow the tips above to get your home prepped for next winter!