Ensure Peak Performance with Our Winter HVAC Checklist

When you think about winter, ideally you imagine a comfortable evening in your warm home. 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 won't always be able to prevent a blizzard from showing up, but you can prevent your furnace and other HVAC equipment from being ill prepared for winter. Nobody wants or deserves an unreliable furnace, which is why we made this checklist for getting your HVAC system ready for winter.

Five Ways to Prepare Your HVAC for a Winter Blast

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

Since most HVAC systems have an outdoor condenser unit to dispel heat, you'll want to make sure that the area nearby is free of any yard debris. Clear 5 feet of space or so from any vegetation or sticks. It's also recommended to ensure it's covered by a section of tarp or similar material during the winter. This keeps ice and other debris from getting inside the condenser.

2. Clean or Replace the Air Filter

Always check and clean out your air filter, usually found in your furnace's indoor air handler. Dust, pollen, animal dander and many other materials can slowly accumulate in the air filter. If it continues unchecked, your HVAC system might lose efficiency and maybe even become a fire hazard. A fresh air filter helps air to flow smoothly, sustaining sufficient ventilation and helping keep indoor air quality high. To enjoy the most benefit from the filter, make sure to clean or change 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 essential component it can accumulate a lot of wear and tear. Cleaning it on occasion will help maintain strong performance. Vacuum the area near the blower and clean the blades with a microfiber cloth for optimal airflow. If you’re hearing any strange noises or can't get any circulation from the vents, get a professional technician to check out your blower.

4. Check for Gaps or Dents in Your Furnace

Make sure that your furnace has no visible damage on the inside or outside units. A hole in the air handler or flaws in the condenser unit outside can contribute to all sorts of comfort problems, including heat leaking out before it reaches your ductwork. If there is significant damage, speak with your local technician at Myers Furnace Company about checking out the system before the temperatures start dropping. This way you can avoid letting a slight gap in the system turn into a major problem.

5. Test Your Heating Before It Gets Too Cold

It's always wise to make sure your heating or cooling is running properly before its busiest season. If not, your HVAC system may be unequipped for the first significant drop in temperatures. Conducting a test run of your furnace can give you the opportunity to notice potential problems early, while they're still simpler to resolve. This also burns off any dust that may have piled up in the air ducts over the fall, eliminating that burnt smell. As soon as your furnace is in working shape, you can sled away from these 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 ahead of time, you can spend the all winter enjoying the holidays, sipping hot cocoa or spending time with your family inside a warm, cozy home. Remember to follow the tips above to get your home ready for next winter!