Dont Neglect Your Air Conditioner this Winter

As the sharp chill of autumn begins to float through the air, you know winter isn’t far behind. 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 winds down safeguards it against harsh winter weather that could decrease its life. A few simple steps are all it takes to prime your air conditioner for optimum 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 wear your work gloves, get rid of this debris and gently wash out the outdoor condensing unit. Ensure the outside temperature is well above freezing before dousing the unit. Then, get rid of any stubborn leaves or twigs that remain jammed in the nooks and crannies and perform a final sweep around the unit. This helps stop winter winds from whisking debris back into or underneath your AC unit.

Maintain the AC Unit

If you skipped 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 is too chilly. This tune-up and inspection includes measuring the refrigerant level and testing for leaks, looking over and tightening electrical connections, lubricating moving components and testing the system safety controls, among other tasks. Routine air conditioner maintenance enhances 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 air conditioner for the last time this season, find the condensing unit’s outdoor power switch. Open up the protective cover, flip the switch off and put the lid back down. This straightforward procedure prevents you from accidentally running the air conditioner during the winter months. Running the AC when the condensing unit is covered with ice could create irreparable damage.

Examine the Exterior Unit

Powering down your AC after the cooling season calls for more than just flicking off a switch. It’s also important to take a good look at the outdoor unit’s condition. Watch out for cracks, dings, rust or other external issues. Double-check that all seals and insulation are secure and everything appears in order. If you identify any issues, call a certified specialist to service the air conditioner before the issue escalates. This prompt measure helps you steer clear of unpleasant surprises when you power up your AC after its long winter hibernation.

Guard Your Air Conditioner Against Falling Ice

While some homeowners shield their outdoor air conditioning units with a tarp or a commercially available AC cover, this technique often creates more problems than it solves. Moisture can condense on the unit through the plastic, preventing evaporation and fostering rust or mold development. Rodents might even view your covered AC unit as the perfect place for winter den, and also bite through essential wiring and provide 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 key 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 ensure the wind doesn’t blow the wood off. Leaving the AC unit’s sides exposed to the winter snows should not cause any damage.

Routinely Inspect the Unit

Once your air conditioning system is properly winterized, you can’t simply forget about your cooling system until you need it next spring. To make sure it stays in good shape, look at your AC about a few times each month. Adjust the plywood if necessary and get rid of any leaves or pine needles caught in the condensing unit. Regular winter care helps protect against any nasty scenarios come spring.

Schedule Air Conditioning Service Today in Savannah

Preparing your AC for icy and snowy weather may not be the most thrilling task, but the benefits are immense. Not only does it help you avoid costly repairs and delays when you are looking to enjoy the air conditioning next spring, but it also promotes your unit’s efficiency and length of service.

For dependable, expert assistance with the air conditioning tasks outlined above, turn to Coastal Service Experts. Our team provides top-notch service to help our customers avoid HVAC challenges all year. With Coastal Service Experts by your side, you’ll enjoy the peace of mind of knowing your home comfort is in professional hands. To schedule an AC repair or maintenance visit, call Coastal Service Experts today by calling 912-208-2399. Keep in mind, taking care of your air conditioning unit today makes for a cooler, more comfortable tomorrow!