We guarantee your AC Unit has earned a nice long hibernation this winter after such a brutal summer. Start thinking about winterizing the unit to protect it against the cold weather, snow and ice. Winterizing the unit also protects it against rust damage. A few protective measures can keep your air conditioning unit in tip-top working condition.
#1: Find the air conditioning circuit near your unit, which usually has a plastic or metal lid that covers the electrical circuit. Open the lid and flip the switch to OFF. This prevents the unit from turning on during an unusually warm winter day and getting water that could potentially freeze in your unit.
#2: Hose down the air conditioning unit to remove dead bugs, dirt, dust, bird droppings and leaves. Remove small branches and grass clippings from the unit. Allow the unit to dry completely.
#3: Cut foam pipe covers to fit the length and diameter of the exterior exposed pipes and install them. The foam covers insulate the pipes and protect them against freezing temperatures. Wrap duct tape around the foam covers to hold them in place.
#4: Cover the HVAC unit with a plastic or vinyl cover. Choose a cover that is waterproof. Some manufacturers make covers that are specifically designed for your air conditioner, but you can use any plastic or vinyl covering that fits.
#5: Wrap vinyl ropes or bungee cords around the air conditioning cover to keep it secure, and make sure its wrapped tightly so it doesn’t blow away in strong winds.
#6: Check your air conditioner once a week to make sure the cover is secure and simply brush twigs, water, snow and ice off the unit.
Air conditioner maintenance is more than a yearly task during which we come out and service your system. Regularly maintaining your A/C will extend its life, increase its efficiency and minimize the need for repairs. If you notice an irregularity in your air conditioner, give us a call and we’ll come out and make any repairs while the weather is still nice. Make sure you schedule an appointment to have your HVAC unit checked out before you really need it this winter as well. We’re here to make every season the most comfortable it can be for you and your family.
