Ensure Peak Performance with Our Winter HVAC Checklist

When you think about winter, you hopefully imagine a comfy evening at home. But once in a while winter decides not to go along with our plans, and we end up shivering in our own homes. You may not be able to keep a blizzard from showing up, but you can prevent your HVAC system from being ill prepared for winter. Nobody prefers or deserves a broken-down furnace, which is why we made this checklist for getting your HVAC system ready for winter.

Five Ways to Prepare Your HVAC for Winter

1. Cover up Your Outdoor Unit and Clear the Space Near It

Since most HVAC systems have an outdoor condenser unit to release heat, you'll want to see to it that the area close to the unit itself is clear of any yard debris. Clear 5 feet of space or so from any vegetation or objects. It's also smart to make sure it's covered by a section of tarp or similar material over the winter. This keeps ice and other problems from getting inside the condenser.

2. Wash 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 slowly accumulate in the air filter. If it grows unchecked, your furnace might lose efficiency and potentially even become a fire hazard. A clean air filter enables air to flow easily, sustaining adequate ventilation and helping keep indoor air quality healthy. To secure the most benefit from the filter, make sure to clean or replace it every couple of months or in line with manufacturer instructions.

3. Clean the Blower

The blower is vital to your Lennox furnace, and as an integral component it can attract a lot of wear and tear. Cleaning it once in a while will help keep it in great shape. Vacuum the area around the blower and clean the blades with a microfiber cloth for more efficient airflow. If you notice any strange noises or aren't 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 flaws in the condenser unit outside can play a role in all kinds of comfort problems, like heat leaking out before it moves into your ductwork. If there is significant damage, consult your local technician at Custom Air Systems Inc about inspecting the system before the temperatures begin to drop. This way you can avoid letting a slight gap in the system transform into a major problem.

5. Test Your Equipment Before It Gets Too Cold

It's always smart to make sure your furnace is functioning properly before its busiest season. If not, your heating may be unequipped for the first true drop in temperatures. Performing a test run of your heating can offer you the chance to detect potential problems then and there, while they're still more straightforward to resolve. This also burns off any dust that will often have gathered in the air ducts over the fall, eliminating that burnt smell. When your furnace is in working condition, you can sled away from your HVAC worries.

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

Winter weather will be on its way before you know it. If you make an effort to get your furnace ready in advance, you can spend the winter enjoying the holidays, having hot cocoa or relaxing with your family inside a warm, cozy home. Don't forget to follow the tips above to get your home prepared for next winter!