When you think of winter, you hopefully think about a comfy evening curled up by the fire. But once in a while winter doesn't want to go along with our plans, and we're left shivering in our own homes. You might not be able to prevent a blizzard from blowing through, but you can prevent your HVAC system from being unprepared for winter. Nobody prefers or deserves a faulty furnace, which is why we created this checklist for getting your HVAC system prepped for winter.

Five Ways to Prepare Your HVAC for a Winter Blast

1. Cover up Your Outdoor Unit and Clear the Space Nearby

Since most HVAC systems have an outdoor condenser unit to release 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 rocks. It's also recommended to ensure it's covered by a section of tarp or similar material over the winter. This keeps ice and anything else from getting inside the condenser.

2. Wash or Replace the Air Filter

Always inspect and clean out your air filter, normally located in your furnace's indoor air handler. Dust, pollen, animal dander and many other materials can slowly build up in the air filter. If it grows unchecked, your heating can lose efficiency and potentially even become a fire hazard. A fresh air filter enables air to flow more freely, maintaining good ventilation and helping keep indoor air quality higher. To secure the most benefit from the filter, make sure to clean or exchange it every few months or based on manufacturer instructions.

3. Clean the Blower

The blower is crucial to your Lennox furnace, and as an essential component it can attract a lot of wear and tear. Cleaning it once in a while will help maintain strong performance. Vacuum the area around the blower and rub the blades with a microfiber cloth for more efficient airflow. If you’re hearing any strange noises or can't get any circulation from the vents, hire a professional technician to check your blower.

4. Look for Gaps or Dents in Your Furnace

Make sure that your furnace doesn't have visible damage on the inside or outside units. A hole in the air handler or a large dent in the condenser unit outside can worsen all sorts of comfort problems, such as heat leaking out before it moves into your ductwork. If there is significant damage, consult your local technician at Central Heating & Plumbing about checking out the system before the temperatures start falling. This way you can avoid letting a minor gap in the system transform into a major problem.

5. Test Your Heating Before It Gets Too Cold

It's always smart to make sure your furnace is working properly before its busiest season. If not, your furnace may be unprepared for the first true drop in temperatures. Conducting a test run of your heating can give you the opportunity to detect potential problems right away, while they're still simpler to solve. This also burns away any dust that may have piled up in the air ducts beforehand, eliminating that burnt smell. As soon as your furnace is in working condition, you can sled away from any HVAC worries.

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

Winter weather is going to be heading this way before you know it. If you make an effort to get your furnace prepared beforehand, you can spend the rest of the season enjoying the holidays, drinking hot cocoa or hanging out with your family inside a warm, cozy home. Be sure to follow the tips above to get your home ready for next winter!