When you think of winter, we hope you think about a cozy 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 keep a blizzard from blowing through, but you can prevent your HVAC system from being poorly equipped for winter. Nobody prefers or deserves a faulty furnace, which is why we prepared this checklist for getting your HVAC system prepped for winter.

Five Ways to Prepare Your HVAC for a Cold Winter

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

Since most HVAC systems have an outdoor condenser unit to release heat, you'll want to see to it that the area close to the unit itself is clean of any yard debris. Clear 5 feet of space or so from any vegetation or sticks. It's also smart to make sure it's covered by a bit of tarp or similar material through the winter. This keeps ice and other debris from getting inside the condenser.

2. Wash or Replace the Air Filter

Always check and clean out your air filter, normally found 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 goes unchecked, your HVAC system can lose efficiency and maybe even become a fire hazard. A clean air filter enables air to flow more freely, maintaining good ventilation and helping keep indoor air quality high. To enjoy the most benefit from your filter, make sure to clean or change it every few months or according to manufacturer instructions.

3. Clean the Blower

The blower is vital to your Lennox furnace, and as a key 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 near the blower and rub the blades with a microfiber cloth for optimal airflow. If you hear any strange noises or can't get any circulation from the vents, call a professional technician to check out 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 could worsen all manners of comfort problems, including heat leaking out before it reaches your ductwork. If there is noticeable damage, consult your local technician at Woody's Sudden Service about inspecting the system before the temperatures start dropping. This way you can avoid letting a small 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 heating or cooling is running properly before its busiest season. If not, your furnace may be unprepared for the first true drop in temperatures. Performing a test run of your furnace can offer you the opportunity to notice potential problems early, while they're still more straightforward to fix. This also eliminates any dust that might have gathered in the air ducts over the fall, eliminating that burnt smell. As soon as your furnace is in working condition, you can sled away from these HVAC worries.

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

Winter weather is going to be on its way before you know it. If you take the time to get your furnace ready ahead of time, you can spend the all 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 prepared for next winter!