How to Prepare Your AC System for Winter
Like most of the lower 48 U.S. states in 2022, the Waterford and Oxford, Michigan areas had a warmer than usual summer. We definitely enjoyed the sunny days and all the outdoor activities that go along with warmer weather. Now, however, it’s time now to turn our attention to the coming winter months, which are forecasted to be drier, but colder than is typical for the area. This is why AC maintenance should be considered in the coming months and why you should prepare it for the winter.
When the temperatures drop, to not be caught off guard at the expense of our available resources, preparation is key, especially when it comes to our home comfort systems. One of those comfort systems is the AC, which has worked very hard this year to keep us cool and comfortable.
Steps to Follow So Your AC Is Prepped for the Winter & Ready for Spring
- Before you do anything to or around the unit, if your AC unit is powered by its own breaker, turn the AC main power switch to the off position. This not only ensures your safety while maintaining the unit, but also prevents any use of electricity while it’s not in use over the winter.
If the unit shares a breaker with any other necessary appliances, remember to turn it back on after the maintenance tasks.
- To make sure no harmful debris gets lodged inside the AC outdoor unit, remove any twigs and grass clippings. Also, trim shrubbery that is growing too close to the unit.
- Hose off the outside unit and wipe off any bird droppings, etc. that you see.
- If you have pipes that are exposed, cover them with insulated foam pipe insulation. Your favorite home improvement store should have what you need in the exact diameter.
- Some folks may suggest covering the outside unit, but this really isn’t necessary. In fact, it could cause more harm as moisture is trapped, allowing mold and mildew to grow. However, DO COVER IT BRIEFLY if the forecast is imminent for very severe weather. Once the danger is past, remove the covering.
- Inside, if the returns for the AC are separate from those used by the furnace, close them.
If you don’t have the time or want the responsibility for cleaning and prepping your AC for the cold, call Kotz Heating, Cooling & Plumbing for AC maintenance. Our technicians are thoroughly trained to inspect, clean and make sure your AC is maintained.
