Ensure Peak Performance with Our Winter HVAC Checklist

When you think of winter, you hopefully think about a cozy evening at home. But sometimes winter decides not to go along with our plans, and we're stuck shivering in our own homes. You might not be able to keep a blizzard from blowing through, but you can prevent your heating from being poorly equipped for winter. Nobody prefers or deserves a broken-down furnace, which is why we prepared this checklist for getting your HVAC system ready for winter.

Five Ways to Prepare Your HVAC for a Winter Blast

1. Cover Your Outdoor Unit and Clear the Space Around It

Since most HVAC systems have an outdoor condenser unit to dispel 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 plants or objects. It's also a good idea to make sure it's protected by a section of tarp or similar material over the winter. This keeps ice and other problems from getting inside the condenser.

2. Rinse or Replace the Air Filter

Always evaluate and clean out your air filter, normally located in your furnace's indoor air handler. Dust, pollen, animal dander and many other contaminants can slowly accumulate in the air filter. If it continues unchecked, your HVAC system could lose efficiency and maybe even become a fire hazard. A clear air filter enables air to flow easily, sustaining sufficient ventilation and helping keep indoor air quality higher. To get the most benefit from your filter, make sure to clean or change it every couple of months or based on manufacturer instructions.

3. Clean the Blower

The blower is crucial to your Lennox furnace, and as an essential component it can attract a lot of wear and tear. Cleaning it now and then will help it continue working at its best. Vacuum the area near the blower and clean the blades with a microfiber cloth for optimal airflow. If you notice any unusual noises or are not getting any circulation from the vents, call a professional technician to examine your blower.

4. Look 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 may worsen all sorts of comfort problems, including heat escaping before it moves into your ductwork. If there is noticeable damage, consult your local technician at A2Z Air Inc about checking out the system before the temperatures start dropping. This way you can avoid letting a small gap in the system turn into a major problem.

5. Test Your Furnace Before It Gets Too Cold

It's always practical to make sure your furnace is running properly before the middle of winter. If you don't, your heating could be unequipped for the first real drop in temperatures. Doing a test run of your heating can provide the opportunity to recognize potential problems right away, while they're still easier to fix. This also burns off any dust that might have piled up in the air ducts over the fall, removing that burnt smell. Once 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 should be on the way before you know it. If you take the time to get your furnace prepped beforehand, you can spend the rest of the season enjoying the holidays, having hot cocoa or hanging out with your family inside a warm, cozy home. Don't forget to follow the tips above to get your home prepared for next winter!