Preparing Your HVAC For Winter

by Kevin Smith Author

Winter is here, and already some parts of the country have experienced snow storms and single-digits. It’s not too late to prepare your unit for record-breaking lows. Here are a few easy maintenance tasks that you can do to help keep your system running throughout the year.

Change Filters

The easiest task on your winter maintenance list is changing the filters inside your unit. The filter housing is usually located inside the return vent or AC closet. Filters trap dust and dander and prevent them from recirculating through your home. Special HEPA filters can remove airborne bacteria and viruses which will help reduce illnesses inside your home. Clogged filters force your HVAC system to work harder because it has to pull air through the filter for processing. As a result, a clogged filter can drive up monthly energy costs. Make a note on your calendar to change your filters on the first day of the season. Filters should be changed every 90 days at least. If you have chronic allergies, breathing problems, or animals, consider changing your filters every month to keep the air in your home pure.

Drain Lines

Drain lines in your HVAC unit carry condensation out of the system to an outdoor spout. A clogged drain line can cause a system shutdown. Twice a year--in the spring and fall--pour a half cup of white vinegar or bleach into the drain line. Refer to your manufacturer’s instruction manual for specific instructions. Turn the unit back on and use an industrial vacuum to pull the cleaning solution through the drain line at the outdoor spout. Vacuuming the drain line will also remove any yard debris and animal nesting materials that may be clogging the pipe.

Outdoor Maintenance

Before it gets too cold outside, take some time to clean the area around your outdoor unit. Maintain a three-foot clearance around the unit to allow for air flow. Do not stack patio furniture of lawn equipment on or around the system. Turn off the system and use a garden hose to spray the inside of the unit. Dead leaves and yard debris inside the unit can freeze and do permanent damage to parts like the condenser. Check electrical wiring for frays or animal teeth marks; call a professional HVAC contractor in Hampton, GA, to replace any old wiring or parts before the cold weather sets in. This is the perfect time of year to schedule an inspection and tune-up before the heavy snow storms hit.