Unless there’s an extreme weather event that causes a spike in temperature in the winter, your AC unit is going to go unused throughout the season. Much like we winterize other parts of our property, it’s important to prepare our AC units for winter as well. Otherwise, it can experience damage that will require your attention before you can use it in the summer. Let’s take a look at some helpful winter tips to prevent damage to outdoor AC units.
Have a Professional Clean the Unit and Disconnect the Power
Preventing debris from getting inside the unit is important. However, you’ll also want to make sure there isn’t any existing debris that’s already made its way inside or is close to making its way inside. Have a professional check the unit and clear any debris that may be built up on it or around it. Then, disconnect the power for safety, and reconnect it in the spring.
Pay Close Attention to Drainage and Insulation
The last thing that you want in the winter is for any part of your AC to freeze. The first area you should pay attention to is drainage. Will it be easy for water or snow to build up around your AC and freeze? If so, look for ways you can help redirect water so that it doesn’t freeze the base of your unit. You should also be concerned about certain parts of the unit, such as refrigerant pipes. Adding extra insulation will prevent these pipes from freezing, so that your AC unit works later on.
Invest in a Cover for the Top of Your Unit
One mistake that many homeowners make is covering more of the unit than they need to. It might make sense to cover the whole unit to protect it from snow and rain. However, this can actually make it easier for moisture, pests, and other dangers to get trapped inside, leading to corrosion and damage over the winter season. Instead, invest in a cover that only protects the top. Secure it so that nothing is able to easily get inside.
Inspect the Unit Every So Often
Regular inspections are crucial even if you follow all the steps above. Set a reminder to check your AC unit to look for signs of pests that have made your AC unit their home, moisture buildup, or other threats. This will guarantee that your AC unit is in good condition until winter ends.
Winterizing your AC unit prevents damage that could cause you to need a full unit replacement later on. You can rely on the tips above to prevent damage to your AC unit every winter. However, if your AC unit does take some damage, you can always rely on us at Hardy Heating in Wasilla, AK, for expert AC replacement, so reach out to us today.
