Ensure Peak Performance with Our Winter HVAC Checklist

When you think of winter, ideally you think of a comfortable evening curled up by the fire. But once in a while winter decides not to go along with our plans, and we're stuck shivering in our own homes. You won't always be able to stop a blizzard from blowing through, but you can prevent your heating from being ill prepared for winter. Nobody prefers or deserves a broken-down furnace, which is why we created 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 Nearby

Since most HVAC systems have an outdoor condenser unit to discharge 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 leaves or rocks. It's also recommended to ensure it's covered by a piece of tarp or similar material through the winter. This keeps ice and other problems from getting inside the condenser.

2. Wash or Replace the Air Filter

Always check and clean out your air filter, customarily placed in your furnace's indoor air handler. Dust, pollen, animal dander and many other kinds of debris can gradually accumulate in the air filter. If it grows unchecked, your HVAC system could lose efficiency and potentially even become a fire hazard. A clean air filter allows air to flow smoothly, sustaining adequate ventilation and helping keep indoor air quality healthy. To enjoy the most benefit from an air filter, make sure to clean or change it every few months or based on manufacturer instructions.

3. Clean the Blower

The blower is vital to your Lennox furnace, and as a key component it can collect a lot of wear and tear. Cleaning it once in a while will help maintain strong performance. Vacuum the area near the blower and rub the blades with a microfiber cloth for optimum airflow. If you notice any unusual noises or can't get any circulation from the vents, get a professional technician to examine your blower.

4. Check 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 a large dent in the condenser unit outside can worsen all sorts of comfort problems, like heat leaking out before it moves into your ductwork. If there is noticeable damage, consult your local technician at Northern Comfort Inc about examining the system before the temperatures start falling. This way you can avoid letting a small crack in the system transform into a major problem.

5. Test Your Furnace Before It Gets Too Cold

It's always practical to make sure your HVAC system is running properly before the middle of winter. If not, your furnace may be unequipped for the first significant drop in temperatures. Performing a test run of your furnace can offer you the chance to notice potential problems early, while they're still easier to solve. This also burns away any dust that will often have piled up in the air ducts during the fall, getting rid of that burnt smell. When your furnace is in working condition, you can sled away from these HVAC worries.

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

Winter weather should be on its 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, drinking 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!