When you think of winter, we hope you imagine a comfortable evening in your warm home. But once in a while winter doesn't want to go along with our plans, and we end up shivering in our own homes. You may not be able to prevent a blizzard from blowing through, but you can prevent your HVAC system from being unprepared for winter. Nobody likes or deserves an unreliable furnace, which is why we created this checklist for getting your HVAC system prepped for winter.

Five Ways to Prepare Your HVAC for a Cold Winter

1. Cover Your Outdoor Unit and Clean the Space Nearby

Since most HVAC systems have an outdoor condenser unit to discharge heat, you'll want to ensure that the area surrounding it is clean of any yard debris. Clear 5 feet of space or so from any vegetation or sticks. It's also a good idea to make sure it's protected 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 inspect and clean out your air filter, customarily located in your furnace's indoor air handler. Dust, pollen, animal dander and many other materials can steadily accumulate in the air filter. If it continues unchecked, your HVAC system can lose efficiency and maybe even become a fire hazard. A clear air filter allows air to flow more freely, maintaining sufficient ventilation and helping keep indoor air quality healthy. To secure the most benefit from the filter, make sure to clean or replace it every two or three months or in line with manufacturer instructions.

3. Clean the Blower

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

4. Look 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 may contribute to all sorts of comfort problems, like heat escaping before it moves into your ductwork. If there is noticeable damage, speak with your local technician at Miller Climate Control LLC about checking out the system before the temperatures begin to drop. This way you can avoid letting a minor crack in the system grow into a major problem.

5. Test Your Heating Before It Gets Too Cold

It's always wise to make sure your heating or cooling is functioning properly before the middle of winter. Otherwise, your heating might 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 simpler to correct. This also eliminates any dust that may have piled up in the air ducts beforehand, eliminating that burnt smell. As soon as your furnace is in working shape, you can sled away from your HVAC worries.

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

Winter weather will be on its 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 spending time with your family inside a warm, cozy home. Don't forget to follow the tips above to get your home prepared for next winter!