How Do I Winterize My Air Conditioner?

Winterize My Air Conditioner

Is your home cooled by a central air? If so, then it is really important to winterize your air conditioner. This will help to preserve functionality of your AC and avoid issues from developing in the future. There are a few steps you need to take to make sure it’s in good working order come Spring. To winterize your air conditioning unit and preserve the functionality of the compressor, you can follow these steps:

The Best way to Winterize your AC: Setting Up an Inspection

The most thorough way to winterize an AC unit is to have a professional heating and cooling company perform an in-depth inspection in the Fall, which will usually come with a cleaning of the air conditioner compressor, and to find the best solutions for any issues they find with the unit. This will ensure that there are no leaks and that the unit is ready to start the cooling season.

Be Safe! Turn the AC Unit Off|| Winterize My Air Conditioner

Turn off the power to the unit: Before you start any work on the air conditioning unit, be sure to turn off the power to the unit. This can usually be done by switching off the circuit breaker or unplugging the unit at the compressor.

Locate the main service valve for the air conditioner. This is usually located on the side of the compressor, and it controls the flow of refrigerant to the unit. Close the service valve by turning it clockwise until it is fully closed.

Cleaning up around your AC Unit

Mold can be a real problem with your AC condenser unit. The debris that collects around the unit can cause it to be clogged up and can cause mold to grow within the unit. It is therefore important to ensure that there is at least two feet of clearance around the unit and that you regularly rake away the debris. Use a garden hose to spray off the fins on the outside condenser. This will help to prevent damage to the unit from dirt, sticks, leaves or other debris. You should also trim back any weeds and shrubs that grow just a bit too close to the vents. Does your AC condenser have snow on it? Then it is possible that moisture can get inside and cause rust. If you are worried about this you should cover the outside of the condenser with plywood. Do you live in an area with harsh winter weather? Consider purchasing an air conditioner cover for the unit. This will help to protect it from the elements and keep it clean. Secure it in place with bungee cords to keep it from blowing away.

Insulation – Simple Steps to Take

When winter comes around, you will find that the outdoor connections to your air conditioner condenser will need extra attention. A layer of insulation is essential to prevent pipes and cables from freezing during the coldest times of the year.

Conclusion

Your air conditioner is an integral part of your home. It ensures your comfort by drying and cooling the air, in the warmer months. By following these winterizing steps, you can help protect your air conditioner from damage during the winter months and ensure that it is ready to use when warm weather returns. Tags# Winterize My Air Conditioner