When you imagine winter, you hopefully think about a cozy evening in your warm home. But sometimes 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 stop a blizzard from showing up, but you can prevent your heating from being poorly equipped for winter. Nobody likes or deserves a broken-down furnace, which is why we prepared this checklist for getting your HVAC system ready for winter.

Five Ways to Prepare Your HVAC for a Cold Winter

1. Cover Your Outdoor Unit and Clear the Space Around It

Since most HVAC systems have an outdoor condenser unit to dispel 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 sticks. It's also recommended to make sure it's covered by a piece of tarp or similar material during the winter. This keeps ice and anything else from getting inside the condenser.

2. Clean 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 accumulate in the air filter. If it grows unchecked, your heating might lose efficiency and possibly even become a fire hazard. A fresh air filter helps air to flow easily, maintaining adequate ventilation and helping keep indoor air quality high. To secure the most benefit from an air filter, make sure to clean or replace it every few months or according to manufacturer instructions.

3. Clean the Blower

The blower is crucial to your Lennox furnace, and as an essential component it can collect a lot of wear and tear. Cleaning it now and then will help it continue working at its best. Vacuum the area next to the blower and clean the blades with a microfiber cloth for optimal airflow. If you’re hearing any odd noises or can't get any circulation from the vents, get a professional technician to check your blower.

4. Search 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 damage to the condenser unit outside can worsen all kinds of comfort problems, including heat escaping before it makes it to your ductwork. If there is noticeable damage, consult your local technician at James Heating & A/C, Inc about inspecting the system before the temperatures start falling. This way you can avoid letting a small gap in the system turn into a major problem.

5. Test Your Equipment Before It Gets Too Cold

It's always practical to make sure your HVAC system is functioning properly before its busiest season. If not, your heating might be unprepared for the first significant drop in temperatures. Doing a test run of your furnace can give you the chance to discover potential problems right away, while they're still easier to resolve. This also burns away any dust that might have piled up in the air ducts beforehand, removing that burnt smell. When your furnace is in working order, you can sled away from any HVAC worries.

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

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