Ensure Peak Performance with Our Winter HVAC Checklist

When you imagine winter, you hopefully think about a comfortable evening at 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 might not be able to stop a blizzard from rolling through, but you can prevent your HVAC system from being unprepared for winter. Nobody likes or deserves an unreliable furnace, which is why we prepared this checklist for getting your HVAC system prepared for winter.

Five Ways to Prepare Your HVAC for Winter

1. Cover up Your Outdoor Unit and Clear the Space Around 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 clean of any yard debris. Clean 5 feet of space or so from any leaves or rocks. It's also recommended to ensure it's covered by a section of tarp or similar material over the winter. This keeps ice and anything else from getting inside the condenser.

2. Wash 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 gradually accumulate in the air filter. If it continues unchecked, your heating might lose efficiency and potentially even become a fire hazard. A clean air filter helps air to flow smoothly, maintaining sufficient ventilation and helping keep indoor air quality high. To enjoy the most benefit from your filter, make sure to clean or exchange it every few months or in line with manufacturer instructions.

3. Clean the Blower

The blower is crucial to your Lennox furnace, and as a key component it can attract a lot of wear and tear. Cleaning it on occasion will help keep it in great shape. Vacuum the area near the blower and clean the blades with a microfiber cloth for more efficient airflow. If you notice any strange noises or are not getting any circulation from the vents, get a professional technician to check out 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 damage to the condenser unit outside can contribute to all kinds of comfort problems, including heat escaping before it moves into your ductwork. If there is noticeable damage, talk to your local technician at Retro HVAC Service & Installation about inspecting the system before the temperatures begin to drop. This way you can avoid letting a small flaw 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 HVAC system is running properly before its busiest season. If you don't, your heating may be unprepared for the first significant drop in temperatures. Doing a test run of your furnace can provide the opportunity to detect potential problems right away, while they're still simpler to resolve. This also burns away any dust that will often have piled up in the air ducts during the fall, removing that burnt smell. Once your furnace is in working order, you can sled away from these HVAC worries.

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

Winter weather should be heading this way before you know it. If you make an effort to get your furnace prepared beforehand, you can spend the rest of the season enjoying the holidays, sipping hot cocoa or spending time with your family inside a warm, cozy home. Don't forget to follow the tips above to get your home ready for next winter!