When you think about winter, we hope you think of a cozy evening at home. But every now and then winter doesn't feel like going along with our plans, and we end up shivering in our own homes. You might not be able to keep a blizzard from blowing through, but you can prevent your heating from being unprepared for winter. Nobody wants or deserves a broken-down furnace, which is why we made this checklist for getting your HVAC system ready 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 release heat, you'll want to see to it that the area nearby is free of any yard debris. Clean 5 feet of space or so from any vegetation or rocks. It's also recommended to ensure it's covered up by a bit 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 inspect and clean out your air filter, usually located in your furnace's indoor air handler. Dust, pollen, animal dander and many other contaminants can steadily accumulate in the air filter. If it grows unchecked, your heating could lose efficiency and possibly even become a fire hazard. A fresh air filter allows air to flow easily, maintaining good ventilation and helping keep indoor air quality healthy. To secure the most benefit from the filter, make sure to clean or exchange it every two or three months or according to manufacturer instructions.

3. Clean the Blower

The blower is vital to your Lennox furnace, and as an integral component it can accumulate a lot of wear and tear. Cleaning it now and then will help it continue working at its best. Vacuum the area around the blower and rub the blades with a microfiber cloth for optimal airflow. If you notice any strange noises or can't get any circulation from the vents, get a professional technician to check out your blower.

4. Search 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 may worsen all sorts of comfort problems, including heat escaping before it reaches your ductwork. If there is obvious damage, speak with your local technician at Thurston Heating & Air Conditioning about checking out the system before the temperatures begin to drop. This way you can avoid letting a minor crack in the system transform into a major problem.

5. Test Your Equipment Before It Gets Too Cold

It's always smart to make sure your heating or cooling is running properly before the middle of winter. If not, your HVAC system might be unprepared for the first true drop in temperatures. Doing a test run of your furnace can provide the opportunity to discover potential problems early, while they're still simpler to solve. This also eliminates any dust that may have gathered in the air ducts beforehand, removing that burnt smell. As soon as your furnace is in working shape, you can sled away from any HVAC worries.

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

Winter weather should be heading this way before you know it. If you take the time to get your furnace prepared in advance, you can spend the winter enjoying the holidays, drinking hot cocoa or spending time with your family inside a warm, cozy home. Remember to follow the tips above to get your home ready for next winter!