When you imagine winter, you hopefully think of a comfy evening curled up by the fire. But every now and then winter decides not to go along with our plans, and we're left shivering in our own homes. You won't always be able to stop a blizzard from rolling through, but you can prevent your HVAC system from being poorly equipped for winter. Nobody likes or deserves a faulty furnace, which is why we made this checklist for getting your HVAC system prepped for winter.

Five Ways to Prepare Your HVAC for a Winter Blast

1. Wrap up Your Outdoor Unit and Clear the Space Nearby

Since most HVAC systems have an outdoor condenser unit to discharge heat, you'll want to see to it that the area surrounding it is free of any yard debris. Clean 5 feet of space or so from any plants or sticks. It's also a good idea to make sure it's covered up by a section of tarp or similar material over the winter. This keeps ice and other problems from getting inside the condenser.

2. Clean or Replace the Air Filter

Always inspect and clean out your air filter, customarily 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 continues unchecked, your HVAC system could lose efficiency and maybe even become a fire hazard. A fresh air filter allows air to flow easily, sustaining sufficient ventilation and helping keep indoor air quality healthy. To enjoy the most benefit from an air filter, make sure to clean or replace it every few months or in line with manufacturer instructions.

3. Clean the Blower

The blower is crucial to your Lennox furnace, and as a key component it can attract a lot of wear and tear. Cleaning it on occasion will help it continue working at its best. Vacuum the area next to the blower and rub the blades with a microfiber cloth for optimal airflow. If you’re hearing any odd noises or are not getting any circulation from the vents, get a professional technician to examine your blower.

4. Check for Gaps or Dents in Your Furnace

Make sure that your furnace has no visible damage on the inside or outside units. A hole in the air handler or flaws in the condenser unit outside could play a role in all sorts of comfort problems, such as heat escaping before it reaches your ductwork. If there is obvious damage, speak with your local technician at West Michigan Heating & Air Conditioning Services about inspecting the system before the temperatures start falling. This way you can avoid letting a slight crack in the system transform into a major problem.

5. Test Your Furnace Before It Gets Too Cold

It's always practical to make sure your HVAC system is running properly before its busiest season. If you don't, your heating may be unprepared for the first significant drop in temperatures. Doing a test run of your heating can give you the opportunity to discover potential problems then and there, while they're still easier to fix. This also burns away any dust that will often have piled up in the air ducts beforehand, getting rid of that burnt smell. Once your furnace is in working order, you can sled away from your HVAC worries.

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

Winter weather is going to be on the way before you know it. If you take the time to get your furnace prepped beforehand, you can spend the winter enjoying the holidays, drinking hot cocoa or hanging out with your family inside a warm, cozy home. Don't forget to follow the tips above to get your home prepared for next winter!