After summer fades, you might think your air conditioner has done its job and doesn’t need to be touched until next spring. After a long season of hard work, though, your HVAC unit needs a little TLC to stay in good shape. By taking time to winterize the equipment, it will be ready to go once the temperatures rise again—and you’ll be less likely to experience high energy bills or costly AC repairs. To help you give your cooling system the best protection, here are a few maintenance tasks you should complete before the leaves change color.

3 Air Conditioner Winterization Tips

1. Turn Off Cooling Mode  

Check the thermostat and turn the cooling setting off. With a central HVAC system, you can simply switch it to heating mode whenever you need extra warmth indoors.  

If you don’t make these adjustments, the AC may operate automatically on warmer winter and fall days. In addition to wasting energy and making your home too cool, this operation can leave moisture running through the system. If temperatures drop too low, this moisture may freeze and damage internal components, requiring you to invest in AC repairs.

2. Clean the Outdoor Unit

The outdoor unit of your AC system—often referred to as the condenser unit—is responsible for removing heat from the air and releasing cool air inside your home. During fall and winter, it’s easy for dirt, twigs, leaves, and other debris to accumulate inside the unit.  

This buildup can impact operational performance once you turn the system back on as well as cause damage that requires professional AC repairs. This waste can also make your outdoor unit a welcome home for destructive pests—such as squirrels and mice.

3. Cover With Caution

Many homeowners make the mistake of putting a full cover over their outdoor unit. While rain and snow won’t damage the equipment, fully enclosing the equipment can trap moisture inside—a problem that can cause metal components to rust. If you want to protect your air conditioner from seasonal debris—such as tree branches and falling icicles—place a wooden board over the top to serve as a barrier.

Whenever the seasons change, Ogeechee Heating & Air is here to make sure your equipment is in optimal condition for true home comfort. If you need winterization, this experienced cooling and heating contractor of Claxton, GA, will tend to all maintenance tasks listed above—as well as make AC repairs to ensure your system will be ready for the spring and summer. These friendly technicians will also provide comprehensive furnace and heating system tuneups so your house is kept warm, safe, and energy-efficient all winter long. Visit this HVAC company online to learn more about their capabilities or call (912) 764-8173 to schedule responsive care within the southeast Georgia region.