When you think of winter, we hope you think about a cozy evening at home. But sometimes winter doesn't feel like going along with our plans, and we end up shivering in our own homes. You won't always be able to prevent a blizzard from rolling through, but you can prevent your HVAC system from being ill prepared for winter. Nobody prefers or deserves a broken-down furnace, which is why we prepared this checklist for getting your HVAC system prepped for winter.

Five Ways to Prepare Your HVAC for Winter

1. Cover up Your Outdoor Unit and Clear the Space Near It

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. Clear 5 feet of space or so from any plants or objects. It's also a good idea to make sure it's covered up by a piece of tarp or similar material during the winter. This keeps ice and other debris from getting inside the condenser.

2. Clean or Replace the Air Filter

Always evaluate and clean out your air filter, normally located in your furnace's indoor air handler. Dust, pollen, animal dander and many other kinds of debris can slowly build up in the air filter. If it continues unchecked, your HVAC system could lose efficiency and possibly even become a fire hazard. A clean air filter helps air to flow more freely, sustaining adequate ventilation and helping keep indoor air quality high. To enjoy the most benefit from your filter, make sure to clean or change it every couple of months or according to manufacturer instructions.

3. Clean the Blower

The blower is essential to your Lennox furnace, and as an essential component it can accumulate a lot of wear and tear. Cleaning it now and then will help it continue working at its best. Vacuum the area around the blower and rub the blades with a microfiber cloth for more efficient airflow. If you hear any unusual noises or can't get any circulation from the vents, call a professional technician to examine 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 damage to the condenser unit outside may contribute to all sorts of comfort problems, including heat leaking out before it reaches your ductwork. If there is noticeable damage, consult your local technician at Pliescott HVAC Services LLC 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 Furnace Before It Gets Too Cold

It's always practical to make sure your furnace is running properly before its busiest season. If not, your furnace may be unprepared for the first significant drop in temperatures. Conducting a test run of your furnace can provide the chance to notice potential problems right away, while they're still easier to solve. This also removes any dust that may have piled up in the air ducts beforehand, removing that burnt smell. As soon as your furnace is in working condition, you can sled away from these 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 take the time to get your furnace ready in advance, you can spend the all winter enjoying the holidays, sipping hot cocoa or spending time with your family inside a warm, cozy home. Be sure to follow the tips above to get your home prepped for next winter!