Use These Tips to Prep Your HVAC System for Winter

When you think of winter, ideally you think about a cozy evening curled up by the fire. But sometimes 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 keep a blizzard from blowing through, but you can prevent your furnace and other HVAC equipment from being unprepared for winter. Nobody wants 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 Clear the Space Nearby

Since most HVAC systems have an outdoor condenser unit to dispel heat, you'll want to ensure 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 objects. It's also a good idea to make sure it's protected by a piece of tarp or similar material over the winter. This keeps ice and other problems from getting inside the condenser.

2. Clean or Replace the Air Filter

Always inspect and clean out your air filter, normally found in your furnace's indoor air handler. Dust, pollen, animal dander and many other kinds of debris can slowly build up in the air filter. If it goes unchecked, your furnace could lose efficiency and potentially even become a fire hazard. A clean air filter helps air to flow smoothly, sustaining good ventilation and helping keep indoor air quality healthy. To get the most benefit from an air filter, make sure to clean or exchange it every few months or in line with manufacturer instructions.

3. Clean the Blower

The blower is essential to your Lennox furnace, and as a key component it can collect a lot of wear and tear. Cleaning it on occasion will help keep it in great shape. Vacuum the area around the blower and rub the blades with a microfiber cloth for optimal airflow. If you hear any unusual noises or can't get any circulation from the vents, call a professional technician to examine your blower.

4. Search for Gaps or Dents in Your Furnace

Make sure that your furnace is free of visible damage on the inside or outside units. A hole in the air handler or flaws in the condenser unit outside may worsen 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 Gopher Heating and Air Conditioning about checking out the system before the temperatures start dropping. This way you can avoid letting a minor gap in the system grow into a major problem.

5. Test Your Heating Before It Gets Too Cold

It's always practical to make sure your furnace is functioning properly before the middle of winter. If not, your heating may be unequipped for the first true drop in temperatures. Doing a test run of your furnace can provide the chance to notice potential problems early, while they're still easier to resolve. This also burns off any dust that will often have piled up in the air ducts over the fall, removing that burnt smell. Once your furnace is in working order, you can sled away from any HVAC worries.

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

Winter weather should be on its way before you know it. If you spend some time to get your furnace ready in advance, you can spend the winter enjoying the holidays, sipping hot cocoa or hanging out with your family inside a warm, cozy home. Remember to follow the tips above to get your home prepped for next winter!