After the hot months of summer, fall weather comes as a great relief for homeowners. In the excitement, many homeowners end up forgetting a crucial chore: winterizing the outdoor AC unit. Winters in New York can be harsh, and the HVAC unit has to withstand the cold, precipitation, snow, and ice.
Importance of Winterizing an Outdoor AC Unit
Winterization safeguards a central air conditioner from the elements to prevent rust, physical damage, and to keep it in perfect working condition throughout the cold season. It also prevents critters from nesting inside the unit, as this could lead to mechanical damage. HVAC manufacturers provide maintenance instructions for their products, which come handy for winterization. Following these instructions protects the manufacturer’s warranty and helps keep the unit in good condition.
Early fall is the ideal time for AC winterization since the weather is beautiful for working outdoors. The AC unit can also air-dry completely after being cleaned in this weather. For the process, a homeowner needs a fitted plastic or vinyl cover, bungee cords or vinyl rope, foam pipe covers, and duct tape. Here are the steps to follow for winterizing a central air conditioner.
Switching Off the HVAC Unit
The first step is to turn off the HVAC unit to prevent it from turning on automatically on warmer days. When this happens, water gets into the coils and freezes when temperatures fall causing rust and corrosion.
Washing the Air Conditioner
Homeowners should use a garden hose to clean and rinse the unit, removing dirt, dust, bugs, leaves, grass clippings, and other unwanted materials. The unit should dry completely before the next step.
Insulation
The exposed piping should be protected against the harsh winter weather. Installing foam pipe covers insulates the pipes and helps protect them from freezing.
Wrapping the AC Unit
Wrapping the
AC unit using fitted waterproof plastic, a vinyl cover, or a specialized winterization cover offers maximum winter protection. To secure the protective cover, wrap vinyl ropes or bungee cords around the unit. Ensure that the unit is completely secured, as a loose covering can trap moisture and cause rust.
Winterizing Heat Pumps
If the outdoor unit is a
heat pump and not solely an air conditioner with a separate indoor
furnace, homeowners must turn the power back on after the unit has completely dried and keep the side vents and exhaust fan uncovered.
Regular Monitoring
The HVAC unit should not be forgotten after winterization. Regular monitoring is necessary to remove debris, snow, and water, and to secure the cover.
For the most reliable HVAC installation and servicing in Middletown, NY and the surrounding areas, Larson's Heating & Cooling, Inc is your one-stop-shop. With over 35 years in the industry, we have the resources and expertise to install or repair your HVAC system to keep you and your family comfortable year-round.
Contact us today at 845-344-3030 for a free estimate.
Winterization safeguards a central air conditioner from the elements to prevent rust, physical damage, and to keep it in perfect working condition throughout the cold season. It also prevents critters from nesting inside the unit, as this could lead to mechanical damage. HVAC manufacturers provide maintenance instructions for their products, which come handy for winterization. Following these instructions protects the manufacturer’s warranty and helps keep the unit in good condition.
Early fall is the ideal time for AC winterization since the weather is beautiful for working outdoors. The AC unit can also air-dry completely after being cleaned in this weather. For the process, a homeowner needs a fitted plastic or vinyl cover, bungee cords or vinyl rope, foam pipe covers, and duct tape. Here are the steps to follow for winterizing a central air conditioner.
