When you think about winter, ideally you think about a comfortable evening in your warm home. But every now and then winter decides not to go along with our plans, and we end up shivering in our own homes. You may 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 prepared 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 dispel heat, you'll want to make sure that the area nearby is clear of any yard debris. Clean 5 feet of space or so from any plants or objects. It's also a good idea to ensure it's protected by a section of tarp or similar material over the winter. This keeps ice and other debris from getting inside the condenser.

2. Clean or Replace the Air Filter

Always evaluate and clean out your air filter, normally located in your furnace's indoor air handler. Dust, pollen, animal dander and many other kinds of debris can gradually collect in the air filter. If it continues unchecked, your furnace can lose efficiency and maybe even become a fire hazard. A clean air filter helps air to flow smoothly, maintaining adequate ventilation and helping keep indoor air quality healthy. To enjoy the most benefit from the filter, make sure to clean or change it every two or three 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 near the blower and clean the blades with a microfiber cloth for optimal airflow. If you hear any unusual noises or can't get any circulation from the vents, get a professional technician to examine 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 damage to the condenser unit outside can play a role in all sorts of comfort problems, including heat leaking out before it reaches your ductwork. If there is significant damage, speak with your local technician at Knoechel Heating about checking out the system before the temperatures begin to drop. This way you can avoid letting a slight 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 the middle of winter. Otherwise, your furnace may be unprepared for the first real drop in temperatures. Performing a test run of your furnace can provide the chance to recognize potential problems early, while they're still more straightforward to correct. This also eliminates any dust that will often have accumulated in the air ducts over the fall, getting rid of that burnt smell. As soon as 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 ready beforehand, you can spend the all winter enjoying the holidays, drinking hot cocoa or hanging out with your family inside a warm, cozy home. Be sure to follow the tips above to get your home ready for next winter!