Use These Tips to Prep Your HVAC System for Winter

When you imagine winter, you hopefully think of a comfortable evening curled up by the fire. But sometimes winter doesn't want 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 furnace and other HVAC equipment from being ill prepared for winter. Nobody wants 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 a Cold Winter

1. Cover up Your Outdoor Unit and Clean 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. Clean 5 feet of space or so from any leaves or objects. It's also a good idea to make sure it's protected by a section of tarp or similar material through 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 placed in your furnace's indoor air handler. Dust, pollen, animal dander and many other materials can steadily build up in the air filter. If it continues unchecked, your HVAC system might lose efficiency and maybe even become a fire hazard. A clear air filter helps air to flow easily, sustaining sufficient ventilation and helping keep indoor air quality higher. To secure the most benefit from an air filter, make sure to clean or change it every couple of months or according to manufacturer instructions.

3. Clean the Blower

The blower is crucial 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 maintain strong performance. Vacuum the area near the blower and rub 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 check your blower.

4. Search 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 contribute to all manners of comfort problems, like heat leaking out before it moves into your ductwork. If there is significant damage, speak with your local technician at Fal-Ken Heating & Cooling Corporation about examining the system before the temperatures start falling. This way you can avoid letting a slight gap in the system transform into a major problem.

5. Test Your Heating Before It Gets Too Cold

It's always wise to make sure your HVAC system is functioning properly before the middle of winter. If not, your HVAC system may be unequipped for the first significant drop in temperatures. Doing a test run of your furnace can give you the opportunity to notice potential problems early, while they're still easier to fix. This also eliminates any dust that might have gathered in the air ducts over the fall, removing that burnt smell. Once your furnace is in working shape, you can sled away from any HVAC worries.

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

Winter weather will 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, sipping hot cocoa or relaxing with your family inside a warm, cozy home. Remember to follow the tips above to get your home prepped for next winter!