Dont Neglect Your Air Conditioner this Winter

As the sharp chill of autumn begins to flow through the air, you know winter will arrive soon. Now’s the time to spare a few moments to prepare your air conditioning system for the off-season. Shutting down your AC as summer wanes shields it against harsh winter weather that could decrease its life. A few easy steps are all you will need to prime your air conditioner for maximum 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, remove this debris and gently wash out the outdoor condensing unit. Be sure the outside temperature is adequately above freezing before dousing the unit. Then, get rid of any stubborn leaves or twigs that remain stuck in the nooks and crannies and complete a final sweep around the unit. This helps stop winter winds from sending debris back into or underneath your air conditioning system.

Maintain the AC Unit

If you overlooked setting up regular air conditioning maintenance last spring, it’s still not too late! Arrange to have a certified technician conduct an AC tune-up before it is too cold outside. This tune-up and inspection includes checking the refrigerant level and testing for leaks, looking over and tightening electrical connections, lubricating moving elements and testing the system safety controls, among other tasks. Routine air conditioner maintenance increases efficiency, extends your unit’s life span and can find minor issues before they escalate into expensive problems.

Disconnect Your Air Conditioner

When you’re positive43 you have used your AC for the last time during the hot summer months, look for the condensing unit’s exterior power switch. Open up the protective covering, flip the switch off and make sure to push the lid down again. This simple action stops you from accidentally turning on the air conditioner during the winter months. Accidentally turning on the air conditioner when the condensing unit is covered with ice may trigger irreparable damage.

Examine the Exterior Unit

Shutting down your AC after the cooling season involves more than just flicking off a switch. It’s also an opportunity to examine the outdoor unit’s condition. Check for cracks, dings, rust or other exterior issues. Take an extra moment to check that all seals and insulation are secure and everything seems in order. If you see any issues, call a certified specialist to service the air conditioner before the issue escalates. This preemptive measure helps you steer clear of unpleasant surprises when you power on your air conditioner 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 technique often causes more problems than it solves. Moisture can condense on the unit through the plastic, stopping evaporation and promoting rust or mold growth. Rats 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 essential to preventing internal damage. The best compromise is to cover the top of the air conditioner with plywood weighed down with a brick or large rock to make sure the wind doesn’t knock it over. Leaving the air conditioning unit’s sides subjected to the winter storms should not cause any harm.

Routinely Inspect the Unit

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

Schedule Air Conditioning Service Today in Clearwater

Preparing your air conditioner for winter 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 want air conditioning next spring, but it also encourages your unit’s efficiency and durability.

For trustworthy, experienced assistance with the air conditioning tasks outlined above, reach out to Midway Services. Our team provides first-rate service to help our customers prevent HVAC trouble all year-round. With Midway Services 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 Midway Services today by calling 727-219-2471. Keep in mind, taking care of your air conditioning unit today helps create a cooler, more comfortable tomorrow!