Ensure Peak Performance with Our Winter HVAC Checklist

When you think about winter, we hope you think of a cozy 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 may not be able to prevent a blizzard from showing up, but you can prevent your HVAC system from being unprepared for winter. Nobody wants or deserves a broken-down furnace, which is why we made this checklist for getting your HVAC system prepared for winter.

Five Ways to Prepare Your HVAC for a Winter Blast

1. Cover Your Outdoor Unit and Clear the Space Nearby

Since most HVAC systems have an outdoor condenser unit to discharge heat, you'll want to ensure that the area nearby is free of any yard debris. Clean 5 feet of space or so from any leaves or objects. It's also recommended to ensure it's covered by a bit of tarp or similar material through the winter. This keeps ice and other problems 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 collect in the air filter. If it goes unchecked, your heating can 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 higher. To secure the most benefit from an air filter, make sure to clean or exchange it every couple of 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 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 hear any strange noises or aren't 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 is free of visible damage on the inside or outside units. A hole in the air handler or a large dent in the condenser unit outside could contribute to all kinds of comfort problems, such as heat leaking out before it makes it to your ductwork. If there is obvious damage, talk to your local technician at Pepper AC & Heat about inspecting the system before the temperatures begin to drop. This way you can avoid letting a minor crack in the system grow into a major problem.

5. Test Your Furnace Before It Gets Too Cold

It's always wise to make sure your HVAC system is working properly before its busiest season. If you don't, your heating may be unequipped for the first true drop in temperatures. Performing a test run of your heating can give you the chance to recognize potential problems right away, while they're still more straightforward to correct. This also eliminates any dust that might have piled up in the air ducts beforehand, getting rid of that burnt smell. As soon as your furnace is in working condition, you can sled away from your HVAC worries.

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

Winter weather is going to be on its 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, drinking 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!