As days shorten and temperatures in Michigan drop, homeowners should winterize AC systems. Think of it as a hibernation — a well-earned period of rest for the unit that kept you chill over the summer. In the natural world, hibernation doesn’t happen without prep work, and you should also do some things to support your air con in winter. Learn how to winterize your air conditioner below.
Power Down the Unit
If you have an air conditioning system that only supplies cold air to your home, you may want to cut power to it. Ensuring no accidental start-ups occur during the winter can keep your AC from battling against a furnace on milder days or popping on to cool down a house you want to keep warm before a frigid night.
Of course, double-duty heat pumps should remain on, as you may use your heat pump for warm air. You still have some work to do in transitioning the heat pump for use between seasons.
Replace Filters
Leaving dirty filters in place all winter can lead to bacteria or mold growth. If you use the same system to heat your house, dirty filters can reduce the efficiency of the heat pump. Replace all filters or clean reusable ones and let them dry completely before putting them back in place.
Clean Around the Outdoor Unit and the Condenser Itself
Inspect the area around the outside AC condenser unit. When you winterize AC units, you should consider where small creatures and bugs like to spend the winter. Piles of leaves and debris up against your home are a favorite location, so clear yard debris away from the AC components. A clear walking space of about 2 feet around your unit is ideal.
You can also use a hose to wash the outside of the condenser. Avoid using a pressure washer or high-powered spray. If dirt is stubborn, you can carefully remove it with a soft cloth or brush.
Place a Cover on the Outdoor Components
You winterize plumbing by covering outdoor taps and exposed pipes, and you should do the same with your outdoor air con in winter. You can buy a waterproof cover for this purpose. Don’t use basic tarps or other large pieces of plastic, as they aren’t designed to let any air flow through. Without appropriate airflow, you might remove the cover in the spring to find mold and mildew waiting for you.
Inspect Your Indoor Unit
As you prepare for winter, AC inspections are a good idea. Take time to evaluate all visual indoor components. Look for buildup, damage or other concerning symptoms, and clean away dust and debris that might have accumulated on or just inside the indoor unit. This visual inspection helps you understand if you need professional air conditioning services before the weather turns warm again.
Invest in Professional AC Maintenance and Inspections
For optimal peace of mind, consider investing in professional AC service at the beginning and end of the warm season. An HVAC tech can clean, inspect and winterize AC systems and let you know if yours needs any repairs before spring.
