When you think about winter, you hopefully think about a cozy evening in your warm home. But once in a while winter decides not to go along with our plans, and we end up shivering in our own homes. You might not be able to keep a blizzard from blowing through, but you can prevent your HVAC system from being ill prepared 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 Your Outdoor Unit and Clear the Space Near It

Since most HVAC systems have an outdoor condenser unit to dispel heat, you'll want to see to it that the area close to the unit itself is clear of any yard debris. Clear 5 feet of space or so from any plants or sticks. It's also recommended to ensure it's protected by a bit of tarp or similar material over the winter. This keeps ice and other debris from getting inside the condenser.

2. Rinse or Replace the Air Filter

Always check and clean out your air filter, normally located 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 clear air filter helps air to flow smoothly, maintaining good ventilation and helping keep indoor air quality healthy. To secure the most benefit from your filter, make sure to clean or change it every couple of months or in line with 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 now and then will help keep it in great shape. Vacuum the area next to the blower and rub the blades with a microfiber cloth for more efficient airflow. If you notice any unusual noises or aren't getting any circulation from the vents, call a professional technician to check your blower.

4. Check for Gaps or Dents in Your Furnace

Make sure that your furnace has no visible damage on the inside or outside units. A hole in the air handler or a large dent in the condenser unit outside could play a role in all sorts of comfort problems, like heat leaking out before it makes it to your ductwork. If there is significant damage, talk to your local technician at May's Heating & Air about checking out the system before the temperatures start dropping. This way you can avoid letting a slight crack in the system grow into a major problem.

5. Test Your Equipment Before It Gets Too Cold

It's always smart to make sure your HVAC system is functioning properly before its busiest season. Otherwise, your HVAC system could be unprepared for the first true drop in temperatures. Performing a test run of your heating can provide the chance to notice potential problems right away, while they're still easier to resolve. This also eliminates any dust that may have gathered in the air ducts beforehand, removing that burnt smell. Once your furnace is in working order, you can sled away from these HVAC worries.

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

Winter weather should be on the way before you know it. If you spend some time to get your furnace prepared in advance, you can spend the rest of the season enjoying the holidays, having hot cocoa or spending time with your family inside a warm, cozy home. Don't forget to follow the tips above to get your home prepped for next winter!