When you think about winter, ideally you think about a cozy evening curled up by the fire. But sometimes winter decides not to go along with our plans, and we're left shivering in our own homes. You might not be able to keep a blizzard from blowing through, but you can prevent your heating from being poorly equipped for winter. Nobody wants or deserves an unreliable furnace, which is why we created this checklist for getting your HVAC system ready for winter.

Five Ways to Prepare Your HVAC for a Winter Blast

1. Cover Your Outdoor Unit and Clear the Space Nearby

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

2. Rinse or Replace the Air Filter

Always evaluate and clean out your air filter, usually placed in your furnace's indoor air handler. Dust, pollen, animal dander and many other kinds of debris can steadily build up in the air filter. If it goes unchecked, your HVAC system could lose efficiency and maybe even become a fire hazard. A fresh air filter allows air to flow smoothly, maintaining adequate ventilation and helping keep indoor air quality higher. To enjoy the most benefit from your filter, make sure to clean or exchange it every two or three months or based on manufacturer instructions.

3. Clean the Blower

The blower is essential to your Lennox furnace, and as an integral component it can attract a lot of wear and tear. Cleaning it once in a while will help it continue working at its best. Vacuum the area near the blower and brush the blades with a microfiber cloth for optimal airflow. If you hear any strange noises or aren't getting any circulation from the vents, hire a professional technician to examine your blower.

4. Search 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 can contribute to all sorts of comfort problems, such as heat leaking out before it reaches your ductwork. If there is significant damage, speak with your local technician at All Solutions Heating & Cooling about examining the system before the temperatures start dropping. This way you can avoid letting a minor gap in the system turn into a major problem.

5. Test Your Equipment Before It Gets Too Cold

It's always smart to make sure your furnace is working properly before its busiest season. If not, your HVAC system may be unprepared for the first real drop in temperatures. Doing a test run of your heating can offer you the chance to detect potential problems early, while they're still easier to resolve. This also burns away any dust that will often have gathered in the air ducts beforehand, eliminating that burnt smell. Once your furnace is in working shape, you can sled away from these HVAC worries.

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

Winter weather should be on the 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 hanging out with your family inside a warm, cozy home. Remember to follow the tips above to get your home prepped for next winter!