Tips to Prepare Your HVAC System for a Snowstorm

When you live in Minnesota, you understand that snowstorms are not one and done affairs in the winter. We expect brutal winds, ice, and massive snowfalls up here. Snowstorms are common, but that doesn’t mean we can ignore them. Follow these tips to avoid a freezing home and prepare your HVAC system for a snowstorm.

Inspection/Maintenance

Regular inspections and maintenance will help keep your HVAC system running smoothly and keep your home safe throughout the entire winter. Before the start of each heating and cooling season, we recommend that you have our experienced technicians inspect your HVAC system. We will remove debris from outdoor units that may impede energy efficiency, inspect system mechanics for damage and wear, inspect gas furnaces and ductwork, and more. The first step to preparing your HVAC system for a snowstorm is having regular maintenance checks.

Insulation Station

An HVAC system is more effective in a properly insulated home. Seal up any air leaks around drafty windows and doors to ensure the heat isn’t escaping back into the cold. You’ll not only be prepared for a snowstorm, but you’ll also save money and keep your heating system running efficiently.

Clear Vents

Clear those vents! Move all furniture, rugs, clothing, dog beds, etc. away from heating vents. When a snowstorm or negative 30 temperatures hit, you want as much heated airflow as you can get– and you can’t get that if your vents are blocked. Not allowing your HVAC system to heat your house through all working vents makes it work harder than it needs to and therefore can lead to premature repairs.

Generator

The power going out is not an uncommon circumstance during a snowstorm or polar vortex. If losing power is something you’re worried about, consider investing in a portable generator. A generator will keep your HVAC system working in the event that you do lose power. Remember to always be conscious about where you’re running a generator. Never use a generator indoors or in an enclosed space, even if windows are open.

Clean/Change Your Air Filter

During the cold months, your heating system runs more often. This causes your air filters to fill up faster. Stay on top of cleaning or changing your air filters monthly, sometimes even bi-monthly, to ensure your heating system doesn’t have to work harder than it needs to. Keeping extra air filters in the house is always a good idea in case they fill up faster than usual. Use these tips to prepare for the next inevitable snowstorm! Call Stafford Home Service Inc. for more information or to schedule a service today.