It’s important to get your HVAC system ready before the arrival of the winter season. A well-prepared heating system keeps your home warm and comfortable throughout the cold months. Proper maintenance of the furnace and heating equipment ensures efficient performance of your system and prevents unexpected breakdowns. It can also prevent potential energy loss and costly repairs.
Following are some important steps that you should take to prepare your HVAC for winter:
Replace Air Filters
Cleaning and replacing your air filters is essential to prepare your HVAC system for winter. Air filters block dirt, dust, and debris and can fill up quickly during summer. Running your heating system with dirty air filters can cause overheating, reduced airflow, higher energy consumption, and potential damage to the system. You should clean your air filter properly by vacuum cleaning or washing it with warm water and remove all debris from the system before winter. It is best to replace your air filter annually or according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. A clean air filter ensures better air quality, efficient performance, and reliable heating throughout the winter season.
Schedule Furnace Maintenance Checks
Annual maintenance checks of the furnace are important for the efficient and reliable performance of your heating system. You should clean the interior of the furnace to prevent the interference of dirt and debris with the operation of the system. It is also important to keep the area around your furnace clean for proper airflow to the unit. Remove any stored items, especially flammable items, around the furnace to ensure the safe and effective running of your heating system throughout the winter. You should schedule a heating system service once a year during spring. A qualified heating contractor will service your furnace to identify and fix any potential issues from the previous season and prepare it for winter.
Winterize Outdoor Equipment
You should winterize outdoor units such as air conditioners or heat pumps for the off-season to prepare your HVAC system for winter. Regular ac maintenance during the off-season can prevent damage and prepare your unit for colder weather. You should turn off the exterior unit at the ON/OFF switch to prevent accidental use during winter months. It is not necessary to use an air conditioning cover as these units are designed to withstand weather elements. However, if there is any risk of falling debris, then temporarily place a piece of plywood on top to prevent damage to the whole HVAC system.
Prepare Your Humidifier
Humidifiers are commonly installed in HVAC systems to maintain proper moisture levels in your home during dry winter. So, you should prepare your humidifiers for the smooth running of the HVAC system in winter. You should clean the water reservoir to eliminate the accumulated microbes and mineral deposits from the humidifier. If you have a fan-powered or steam humidifier, then make sure to wipe the exterior housing and intake vent to ensure proper airflow. You should also inspect the drain line to prevent any leakage. A properly maintained humidifier can prevent mold growth, water damage, and insufficient or excessive moisture and ensure the proper working of your HVAC system.
