As the sharp chill of autumn begins permeating the air, you know winter will arrive soon. Now’s the time to take a few moments to prepare your air conditioning system for the off-season. Shutting down your AC as summer wanes shields it against extreme winter weather that could reduce its lifespan. A few basic steps are all you’ll need to prime your air conditioner for maximum efficiency come spring.
Deep Clean Your Air Conditioner
As the seasons change, your outdoor air conditioner often can become filled with fallen leaves and pine cones. This is a good time to put on your work gloves, remove this debris and gently wash out the outdoor condensing unit. Ensure the outside temperature is adequately above freezing before using the garden hose to clean out the unit. Then, get rid of any stubborn leaves or twigs that remain nestled in the nooks and crannies and complete a final sweep around the unit. This helps protect against winter winds from blowing debris back into or underneath your condenser.
Maintain the AC Unit
If you missed setting up regular air conditioning maintenance last spring, it’s still not too late! Arrange to have a professional technician conduct an AC tune-up before it gets too cold out. This tune-up and inspection includes measuring the refrigerant level and testing for leaks, checking and tightening electrical connections, lubricating moving components and testing the system safety controls, among other tasks. Scheduled air conditioner maintenance increases efficiency, extends your unit’s life span and can find minor issues before they morph into expensive problems.
Disconnect Your Air Conditioner
When you’re positive43 you have used your cooling system for the last time this season, look for the condensing unit’s outside power switch. Open up the protective covering, flip the switch off and make sure to push the lid down again. This straightforward action stops you from accidentally activating the air conditioner during the winter months. Accidentally turning on the air conditioner when the condensing unit is covered with ice may create permanent damage.
Examine the Exterior Unit
Shutting down your air conditioner after the cooling season requires more than just flicking off a switch. It’s also an opportunity to take a good look at the outdoor unit’s condition. Look out for cracks, dents, rust or other visible issues. Make sure that all seals and insulation are secure and everything looks in order. If you spot a problem, call a professional to service the air conditioner before the issue gets worse. This prompt measure helps you avoid unpleasant surprises when you power on your air conditioning after its long winter hibernation.
Guard Your Air Conditioner Against Falling Ice
While some homeowners cover their outdoor air conditioning units with a tarp or a commercially available AC cover, this strategy often produces more problems than it solves. Moisture can condense on the unit through the plastic, stopping evaporation and fostering rust or mold development. Rats might even view your covered AC unit as a cozy winter den, and also bite through critical wiring and leave you with an unwelcome repair bill in the spring.
Even though a covering might not be the best idea, safeguarding your AC from falling icicles is still critical to preventing internal damage. The best compromise is to protect the top of the air conditioner with some plywood weighed down with a brick or large rock to make certain the wind doesn’t knock it over. Leaving the outdoor unit’s sides exposed to the winter elements should not cause any harm.
Routinely Inspect the Unit
Once your air conditioner is correctly winterized, you can’t simply ignore about your AC until you need it next spring. To make certain it stays in good shape, take a peek at your AC about once a week. Adjust the plywood if needed and remove any leaves or pine needles caught in the condensing unit. Routine winter care helps protect against any nasty predicaments come spring.
Schedule Air Conditioning Service Today in Windsor
Preparing your air conditioning unit for cold temperatures may not be the most exciting task, but the benefits are immense. Not only does it prevent costly repairs and delays when you want air conditioning next spring, but it also promotes your unit’s efficiency and durability.
For trustworthy, skilled assistance with the air conditioning tasks outlined above, reach out to Bryant Heating & Cooling Service Experts. Our team provides superb service to help our customers prevent HVAC trouble all year-round. With Bryant Heating & Cooling Service Experts by your side, you’ll enjoy the satisfaction of realizing your home comfort is in professional hands. To schedule an AC repair or maintenance visit, call Bryant Heating & Cooling Service Experts today by calling 226-773-3357. Remember, taking care of your air conditioner today makes for a cooler, more comfortable tomorrow!