When you think of winter, ideally you think about a comfortable evening in your warm home. But sometimes winter doesn't want to go along with our plans, and we're left shivering in our own homes. You won't always be able to keep a blizzard from blowing through, but you can prevent your HVAC system from being ill prepared for winter. Nobody wants 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 Clean the Space Around It

Since most HVAC systems have an outdoor condenser unit to discharge heat, you'll want to see to it that the area close to the unit itself is free of any yard debris. Clear 5 feet of space or so from any plants or rocks. It's also a good idea to ensure it's protected by a piece of tarp or similar material during the winter. This keeps ice and other problems 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 materials can gradually collect in the air filter. If it continues unchecked, your heating might lose efficiency and possibly even become a fire hazard. A fresh air filter helps air to flow easily, maintaining good ventilation and helping keep indoor air quality high. To enjoy the most benefit from an air 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 vital 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 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 check your blower.

4. Check 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 a large dent in the condenser unit outside may contribute to all sorts of comfort problems, including heat escaping before it makes it to your ductwork. If there is significant damage, talk to your local technician at Cytech Heating & Cooling L.C. about examining the system before the temperatures begin to drop. This way you can avoid letting a small flaw in the system transform into a major problem.

5. Test Your Equipment Before It Gets Too Cold

It's always practical to make sure your heating or cooling is functioning properly before the middle of winter. Otherwise, your heating might be unequipped for the first true drop in temperatures. Doing a test run of your heating can give you the opportunity to recognize potential problems then and there, while they're still easier to solve. This also burns away any dust that will often have accumulated in the air ducts during the fall, getting rid of that burnt smell. As soon as your furnace is in working order, 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 take the time to get your furnace prepared beforehand, you can spend the rest of the season enjoying the holidays, having hot cocoa or relaxing with your family inside a warm, cozy home. Remember to follow the tips above to get your home prepped for next winter!