How to Care for Your Air Conditioner This Winter

Top 5 Ways to Winterize Your AC for Long-Lasting Performance

When the vibrant foliage in Sammamish and the surrounding region begins to turn, it signals the arrival of the cooler months ahead. This is a crucial time for homeowners to think about winterizing their air conditioners, AKA winter air conditioning care, even when they don’t plan to operate them for a few months.

Proper preparation can extend the lifespan of your AC unit, but it also ensures its efficiency and readiness for the warmer season, even though it seems so far away. Keep reading to learn the five top tips for winter ac care from the experts at Bob’s Heating & Air Conditioning. To effectively winterize your air conditioner, incorporate this essential advice!

MORE SEASONAL TIPS: How to Stay Prepared for Storms at Home

1. Clean and Inspect the Unit

Before the winter chill fully sets in, cleaning and inspecting your air conditioner is vital. Remove debris, leaves, or dirt that may have gathered around the unit to prevent blockages and potential damage. Then be sure to inspect the unit for signs of wear or damage. If you spot any issues, it’s best to address them now rather than wait until spring.

2. Change or Clean Air Filters

Maintaining air quality and system efficiency is crucial for winter air conditioning care, especially as we spend more time indoors during the colder months. Clean or replace the indoor unit’s air filters. The team at Bob’s recommends checking filters and replacing them regularly throughout the year to ensure optimal performance.

3. Cover & Cut Off Power

Cover the top of the outdoor unit with a breathable cover to protect your unit from snow, ice, and debris. This prevents moisture buildup while shielding your AC unit from winter elements and can be as simple as a piece of plywood and something heavy on top to hold it in place. Additionally, cut off power to the air conditioner to prevent the unit from turning on during unseasonably warm winter days, which can cause unnecessary wear.

4. Schedule Professional Maintenance

Seasonal upkeep, whether preparing to send your unit into hibernation or wake it up in spring to cool off, also requires professional care. Schedule an end-of-season maintenance check with a certified HVAC technician, or sign up for our annual Guardian Maintenance Program, and we’ll take care of the details for you. They can spot potential issues and ensure your unit is ready for the winter. This proactive approach can save you from costly repairs by making sure the following equipment operates at peak efficiency year-round:

• Gas and Electric Furnaces
• Air Conditioners
• Heat Pumps
• Ductless Heat Pumps
• Water Heaters
• Tankless Water Heaters
• Make Up Air Systems

5. Optimize Home Heating Efficiency

While focusing on your air conditioner, don’t overlook the overall heating efficiency of your home. To enhance the efficiency of your heating system, set ceiling fans to turn clockwise to create an updraft that forces warm air down from the ceiling and into your living space (but be sure to switch directions in summer). Additionally, keep at least 80% of your home’s vents open to ensure proper air circulation. Closing off too many vents can strain your HVAC system.

Bob’s is Your Local Climate Systems Expert

Taking the time to are for your air conditioner during the winter is an investment in your home’s comfort and efficiency. By following these top 5 tips, you’re preparing your unit for the colder months and ensuring a smoother transition into the warmer season ahead. 

The Bob’s Heating & Air Conditioning team is always here to help, so contact us today! Stay warm and cozy this winter while your air conditioner takes a well-deserved break.