When you imagine winter, we hope you think of a cozy evening in your warm home. But every now and then winter doesn't want to go along with our plans, and we're stuck shivering in our own homes. You may not be able to keep a blizzard from showing up, but you can prevent your HVAC system from being poorly equipped for winter. Nobody likes or deserves an unreliable furnace, which is why we created this checklist for getting your HVAC system prepared for winter.

Five Ways to Prepare Your HVAC for a Cold Winter

1. Cover 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 surrounding it is free of any yard debris. Clear 5 feet of space or so from any leaves or objects. It's also smart to ensure it's protected by a piece of tarp or similar material during the winter. This keeps ice and other problems from getting inside the condenser.

2. Clean or Replace the Air Filter

Always evaluate and clean out your air filter, normally placed in your furnace's indoor air handler. Dust, pollen, animal dander and many other contaminants can slowly collect in the air filter. If it goes unchecked, your furnace can lose efficiency and maybe even become a fire hazard. A clean air filter allows air to flow smoothly, sustaining good ventilation and helping keep indoor air quality higher. To get the most benefit from the filter, make sure to clean or exchange it every couple of months or based on manufacturer instructions.

3. Clean the Blower

The blower is crucial to your Lennox furnace, and as a key component it can attract a lot of wear and tear. Cleaning it on occasion will help it continue working at its best. Vacuum the area next to the blower and clean the blades with a microfiber cloth for optimum airflow. If you’re hearing any unusual noises or are not getting any circulation from the vents, call a professional technician to examine your blower.

4. Check 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 could contribute to all kinds of comfort problems, including heat escaping before it makes it to your ductwork. If there is significant damage, talk to your local technician at Evenaire Heating & Air Conditioning about inspecting the system before the temperatures start dropping. This way you can avoid letting a slight gap in the system transform into a major problem.

5. Test Your Equipment Before It Gets Too Cold

It's always practical to make sure your HVAC system is working properly before the middle of winter. If you don't, your HVAC system could be unprepared for the first significant drop in temperatures. Performing a test run of your heating can give you the opportunity to recognize potential problems early, while they're still simpler to fix. This also eliminates any dust that may have gathered in the air ducts during the fall, eliminating that burnt smell. As soon as your furnace is in working condition, you can sled away from any HVAC worries.

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

Winter weather will be on the way before you know it. If you take the time to get your furnace prepped ahead of time, you can spend the winter enjoying the holidays, having hot cocoa or hanging out with your family inside a warm, cozy home. Remember to follow the tips above to get your home prepped for next winter!