Summers are long in our area, and your air conditioner worked very hard all throughout the many hot months. It’s finally time to let it take a break and rest during the next few months. But if you want to be sure it’ll be in good shape when you need it for springtime, there are some important steps you should take now.
What does your AC system need at the end of the season? Here are our best tips on how to properly retire your air conditioner so it will be safe all winter and ready to go when the summer heat hits again.
1: Consider Any AC Needs
Before you decide your air conditioner is all done for the year, take a moment to consider how it’s doing. If you have any concerns—it’s been making an odd noise, it doesn’t seem to be working as well, your electric bill was surprisingly high—it’s best to have repairs done now. And if you missed maintenance this past spring, schedule that now! There’s still time.
2: Turn the Power Off
Switching the thermostat to “off” or “heat” doesn’t actually shut down the power to the air conditioner. You have to do that manually, using a switch located in a box near the outdoor unit. Shutting this down will prevent electrical issues that could happen if the air conditioner continues to receive power all winter long.
3: Clean the Outdoor Unit
Being outdoors comes with hazards and mess. Your outdoor unit likely has dust and dirt, lawn clippings and leaves, or other sorts of litter and debris on and around it. Rake away anything from the base of the unit. Trim back any plants that are getting too close. Then gently wash the unit with a hose. Don’t spray hard! The fins and coils wouldn’t appreciate that.
4: Protect the Outdoor Unit
Once it’s clean, you want to keep it that way! Home supply stores sell heavy-duty covers that are specifically made for AC outdoor units. You can also simply wrap the unit in thick plastic sheeting and secure it tightly. Make sure that you allow the moisture from cleaning to dry before you cover the unit, so you won’t end up with mildew.
5: Check the Rest of the System
Now is the perfect time to give everything a once-over. Change air filters. Dust your vent covers and make sure nothing is blocking them. If you’ve been concerned about your ducts, have them inspected. It’s easy to seal up leaks, but much harder to keep a home comfortable when ducts are full of holes. If you have an air purifier, consider a maintenance appointment for that.
6: Time for Heating
In order to be ready for the cold weather to hit, make sure your heating system is in good condition. This means maintenance! Your technician will clean and lubricate, inspect and test the system. After that, it will be safer, longer-lasting, more efficient, better at keeping you comfortable, and less likely to require any repairs this winter.
Now you’re all set! Your air conditioner will enjoy a peaceful rest and be ready to get to work. If you have any questions about switching over to heating for the winter, how to keep your HVAC system in top condition, or AC repair in Lake Nona, FL, don’t hesitate to reach out.
Contact Gary Munson Heating & Air Conditioning for AC and heating maintenance and repair in Orlando, FL. You’ll be more comfortable with the best!