How to Maintain Your AC Unit During Fall and Winter

Cooler weather is already settling in to stay, meaning that indoor air conditioners will finally get some time off. Their owners, however, still have some work to do. HVAC systems last from 12-15 years with proper maintenance, and if you don’t prepare your AC units for winter, they may not live out their full lives.

So what heating and air conditioning repairs should you perform to preserve your air conditioner before winter arrives?

• • Change Your Filters
    HVAC filters should be changed at least once every three months, and you shouldn’t stop tending to your AC filters just because you won’t be using the unit. Dirty filters block the flow of air through your system and spread dirt, dust and allergens through the atmosphere of your home. Replacing a clogged filter can actually make your AC unit significantly more energy efficient. Maintaining this easy heating and air conditioning repair habit over the winter months will save you energy and money.

• • AC Coils and Coil Fins
    All AC coils attract dirt over time, no matter how clean you keep your filters. When dirt builds up on coils it reduces airflow and the coil is less capable of absorbing heat. You should check or clean your coil once a year to keep it working in optimum condition. The fins on the coils and the condenser should be checked regularly as well. If they become bent, they can keep air from flowing.

• • Clear Debris and Dirt
    If you have an outdoor condenser, it’s crucial to keep it clear of debris. This is especially important as leaves start to fall. Make sure you clear any leaves and other debris away from your unit before snow hits. You should also trim back any overhanging branches or foliage by two feet to keep the airflow circulating and prevent anything from falling on your unit in the event of a winter storm.

• Protect AC Units
  As soon as it’s cool enough to do without AC, remove any portable AC units and store them in a safe, dry place. Clear debris away from your outdoor central air unit and place a cover over it to keep it safe from the elements.

Contact a heating and air conditioning repair specialist in your area for additional tips about preparing your HVAC systems for winter!