When you think of winter, we hope you think of a comfy evening curled up by the fire. But sometimes winter doesn't feel like going along with our plans, and we're left shivering in our own homes. You won't always be able to stop a blizzard from blowing through, but you can prevent your HVAC system from being poorly equipped for winter. Nobody wants or deserves a broken-down furnace, which is why we prepared 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 Clean the Space Around It

Since most HVAC systems have an outdoor condenser unit to discharge heat, you'll want to make sure that the area surrounding it is clear of any yard debris. Clean 5 feet of space or so from any leaves or objects. It's also recommended to make sure it's covered by a bit of tarp or similar material over the winter. This keeps ice and other problems from getting inside the condenser.

2. Rinse or Replace the Air Filter

Always inspect and clean out your air filter, customarily found in your furnace's indoor air handler. Dust, pollen, animal dander and many other kinds of debris can gradually build up in the air filter. If it grows unchecked, your heating could lose efficiency and potentially even become a fire hazard. A clear air filter helps air to flow easily, sustaining good ventilation and helping keep indoor air quality high. To secure the most benefit from your filter, make sure to clean or replace it every few months or in line with manufacturer instructions.

3. Clean the Blower

The blower is vital to your Lennox furnace, and as an integral component it can collect a lot of wear and tear. Cleaning it on occasion will help keep it in great shape. Vacuum the area around the blower and brush the blades with a microfiber cloth for more efficient airflow. If you’re hearing any odd noises or are not getting any circulation from the vents, get a professional technician to check out your blower.

4. Look 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 can contribute to all sorts of comfort problems, including heat escaping before it moves into your ductwork. If there is obvious damage, consult your local technician at Controlled Comfort HVAC about inspecting the system before the temperatures start falling. This way you can avoid letting a small crack in the system turn into a major problem.

5. Test Your Heating Before It Gets Too Cold

It's always practical to make sure your HVAC system is working properly before its busiest season. If you don't, your heating may be unprepared for the first significant drop in temperatures. Doing a test run of your furnace can offer you the opportunity to recognize potential problems early, while they're still more straightforward to resolve. This also burns away any dust that may have accumulated in the air ducts over the fall, removing that burnt smell. Once your furnace is in working order, 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 on its way before you know it. If you make an effort to get your furnace prepared in advance, you can spend the all winter enjoying the holidays, sipping hot cocoa or relaxing with your family inside a warm, cozy home. Be sure to follow the tips above to get your home prepped for next winter!