Don’t Neglect Your Air Conditioner this Winter
As the crisp chill of autumn begins permeating the air, you know winter will arrive soon. Now’s the time to stop and dedicate a few moments to prepare your air conditioning system for the off-season. Shutting down your AC as summer winds down safeguards it against severe winter weather that could decrease its life expectancy. A few basic steps are all you’ll need to prime your air conditioner for optimum efficiency come spring.
Deep Clean Your Air Conditioner
As the seasons change, your outdoor air conditioner can be filled with debris like fallen leaves and pine cones. This is a handy time to wear your work gloves, get rid of this debris and gently flush out the outdoor condensing unit. Ensure the outside temperature is well above freezing before dousing the unit. Then, take out any stubborn leaves or twigs that remain nestled in the nooks and crannies and make a final sweep around the unit. This helps prevent winter winds from sending debris back into or underneath your air conditioning system.
Maintain the AC Unit
If you overlooked setting up routine air conditioning maintenance last spring, it’s still not too late! Arrange to have a skilled technician conduct an AC tune-up before it becomes too cold outside. This tune-up and inspection includes measuring the refrigerant level and testing for leaks, examining and tightening electrical connections, lubricating moving parts and testing the system safety controls, among other tasks. Routine air conditioner maintenance improves efficiency, extends your unit’s life span and catches minor issues before they morph into expensive problems.
Disconnect Your Air Conditioner
When you’re sure you have used your AC for the last time during the summer, find the condensing unit’s exterior power switch. Lift up the protective lid, flip the switch off and secure the lid once more. This effortless action protects you from accidentally turning on the air conditioner during the winter months. An unintended switch to cooling mode when the condensing unit is covered with ice may cause irreversible damage.
Examine the Exterior Unit
Powering down yourair conditioning equipment after the cooling season involves more than just flicking off a switch. It’s also important to scrutinize the outdoor unit’s condition. Check for cracks, blemishes, rust or other visible issues. Double-check that all seals and insulation are secure and everything appears in order. If you spot a concern, call a professional to service the air conditioner before the issue becomes an even bigger problem. This prompt measure helps you reduce the chances of any unpleasant surprises when you fire up your air conditioner after its long winter hibernation.
Guard Your Air Conditioner Against Falling Ice
While some homeowners drape their outdoor air conditioning units with a tarp or a commercially available AC cover, this tactic often produces more problems than it solves. Moisture can condense on the unit through the plastic, preventing evaporation and encouraging rust or mold growth. Rats might even view your covered AC unit as the perfect place for a winter den, and also gnaw through critical wiring and leave you with an unwelcome repair bill in the spring.
Even though a covering might not be the best idea, protecting your AC from falling icicles is still essential to preventing internal damage. The best compromise is to cover the top of the air conditioner with some plywood weighed down with a brick or large rock to make sure the wind doesn’t blow the wood off. Leaving the outdoor unit’s sides exposed to the winter storms should not cause any harm.
Routinely Inspect the Unit
Once your air conditioner is effectively winterized, you can’t simply ignore it until you need it next spring. To make certain it stays in good shape, take a peek at your AC about a few times each month. Adjust the plywood if required and clean off any leaves or pine needles stuck in the condensing unit. Routine winter care helps prevent any nasty scenarios come spring.
Schedule Air Conditioning Service Today in Windsor
Preparing your AC for winter weather may not be the most exciting task, but the benefits are significant. Not only does it prevent costly repairs and delays when you are looking to enjoy the air conditioning next spring, but it also encourages your unit’s efficiency and length of service.
For reliable, expert assistance with the air conditioning tasks outlined above, contact Bryant Heating & Cooling Service Experts. Our team provides top-notch service to help our customers reduce HVAC issues all year. With Bryant Heating & Cooling Service Experts by your side, you’ll enjoy the security of knowing your home comfort is in professional hands. To schedule an AC repair or maintenance visit, reach out to 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!