Ensure Peak Performance with Our Winter HVAC Checklist

When you think about winter, ideally you think of a comfortable evening at home. But sometimes 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 likes or deserves an unreliable furnace, which is why we made this checklist for getting your HVAC system prepared for winter.

Five Ways to Prepare Your HVAC for Winter

1. Cover Your Outdoor Unit and Clean the Space Nearby

Since most HVAC systems have an outdoor condenser unit to discharge heat, you'll want to see to it that the area nearby is free 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 covered up by a section of tarp or similar material during the winter. This keeps ice and other debris 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 materials can slowly build up in the air filter. If it continues unchecked, your heating might lose efficiency and potentially even become a fire hazard. A clear air filter allows air to flow more freely, sustaining good 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 couple of months or based on manufacturer instructions.

3. Clean the Blower

The blower is essential to your Lennox furnace, and as an integral component it can accumulate a lot of wear and tear. Cleaning it once in a while will help it continue working at its best. Vacuum the area near the blower and brush the blades with a microfiber cloth for optimum airflow. If you’re hearing any unusual noises or are not getting any circulation from the vents, get a professional technician to check 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 damage to the condenser unit outside may worsen all manners of comfort problems, including heat leaking out before it reaches your ductwork. If there is noticeable damage, consult your local technician at Fleming Heating & Air Conditioning Inc about examining the system before the temperatures start falling. This way you can avoid letting a small gap in the system transform into a major problem.

5. Test Your Heating Before It Gets Too Cold

It's always practical to make sure your heating or cooling is running properly before the middle of winter. If not, your heating could be unprepared for the first real drop in temperatures. Performing a test run of your heating can give you the opportunity to notice potential problems early, while they're still easier to fix. This also removes any dust that might have piled up in the air ducts during the fall, removing that burnt smell. Once your furnace is in working condition, you can sled away from any HVAC worries.

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

Winter weather is going to be heading this way before you know it. If you make an effort to get your furnace prepared beforehand, you can spend the all winter enjoying the holidays, sipping hot cocoa or spending time with your family inside a warm, cozy home. Be sure to follow the tips above to get your home prepped for next winter!