Homeowners must consider winterizing their air conditioning units, even if they do not plan to use them for several months. Proper maintenance and preparation can prolong the lifespan of your AC unit and ensure its efficiency and readiness for the upcoming warm seasons. The experts at W.E. Kingswell have compiled a list of the top five tips for winter air conditioning care. By following this valuable advice, you can effectively winterize your air conditioner and keep it in good condition.
Clean And Inspect The Unit
It’s important to regularly clean and inspect your air conditioner to ensure its proper functioning. Clear any debris, leaves, or dirt that may have accumulated around the unit to prevent blockages and potential damage. After that, inspecting the unit for visible wear or damage is crucial. If you detect any issues, it’s advisable to address them immediately instead of waiting until spring. Taking these precautions can help extend the lifespan of your air conditioner and keep it running smoothly.
Change Or Clean Air Filters
During the winter season, when we spend more time indoors, it is essential to maintain the air quality and system efficiency of your air conditioning unit. Regularly cleaning or replacing the indoor unit’s air filters is recommended to ensure optimal performance. We recommend checking the filters frequently throughout the year to ensure that your air conditioning unit is functioning efficiently, keeping the air quality clean and healthy.
Cover & Cut Off Power
During the winter, it is recommended to cover the top of your outdoor AC unit with a breathable cover. This will protect the unit from snow, ice, and debris while preventing moisture buildup. A simple solution is to use a piece of plywood and place something heavy on top to hold it in place. It is also essential to turn off power to the air conditioner to prevent it from turning on during unseasonably warm winter days, as this can cause unnecessary wear on the unit. These steps will help shield your AC unit from the winter elements, ensuring it remains in good condition and operates when summer comes around.
Schedule Professional Maintenance
It is important to take care of your HVAC system seasonally to ensure maximum efficiency and avoid costly repairs. Whether preparing to put your unit into hibernation for winter or getting ready to use it in spring, scheduling an end-of-season maintenance check with a certified HVAC technician is recommended. This proactive approach can help keep your furnaces, air conditioners, heat pumps, and water heaters operating at their peak efficiency all year round.
Optimize Home Heating Efficiency
It is vital to focus on your air conditioner but also the overall heating efficiency of your home. One way to enhance the efficiency of your heating system is by setting your ceiling fans to turn clockwise during the winter season. This creates an updraft that forces warm air from the ceiling into your living space, providing warmth and comfort. However, it is crucial to switch the direction of your ceiling fan during summer. Additionally, keeping at least 80 percent of your home’s vents open is recommended to ensure proper air circulation. Closing off too many vents can strain your HVAC system, reducing efficiency and increasing energy bills.
We Are Proud of the Company We Keep
William E. Kingswell has been a distinguished commercial and residential heating and cooling service provider since 1937. We have provided unmatched customer service to all of our clients. We enjoy being the preferred HVAC equipment distributor of countless customers. We offer a comprehensive range of high-quality heat pumps, boilers, unit heaters, HVAC accessories, and more. William E. Kingswell works with businesses and homeowners throughout Maryland, Washington, D.C., and Virginia, including Baltimore, Frederick, Annapolis, Fairfax, Manassas, Richmond, Fredericksburg, Virginia Beach, and Leesburg. To learn more about our extensive range of SpacePak, Concord, Allied Commercial, and Bard HVAC equipment, call us at 301-937-1900 or contact us today.