Winter Preparation: Should You Cover Your Outdoor AC Unit?

At the end of summer or beginning of fall, you may do quite a few things around your home to prepare for the cold season, including shutting down and covering your outdoor cooling unit. Although winter can be harsh on outdoor appliances, covering your unit might do more harm than good. Moisture may build up inside the unit and damage its compressor and electrical parts. Field mice and other pests may also take up refuge inside the covered unit. Instead of covering your outdoor unit, try these protective tips instead. 

Clean Up the Unit

One of the most proactive things you can do for your outdoor AC unit is clean it. Trees usually shed their leaves during fall. Some of the dying or dead leaves can blow into your outdoor unit and pile up around its condenser coil and compressor. Field mice and other small animals may use the leaves to rest or nest during the cold weather. Melting snow and icy rain can saturate and rot the organic debris. These things can eventually damage your unit.

Before you clean your condenser unit, check to see if it's switched off. Now remove the top cover and gently pick up any debris you find inside it. You can use a grabber to complete this step. Next, wipe off the fan with a soft towel or hand cloth. To avoid cutting your hands or breaking the fan's blades, use very little pressure to clean the fan. 

After you clean the inside of the unit and its fan, replace the top cover. If the condenser coil contains dirt and other debris, use a water hose to gently spray if off. Allow the unit and area around it to dry before moving to the next tip below.

Check the Unit's Mechanical and Electrical Parts

It's also a good idea that you have a professional air conditioning contractor check the unit for coolant, electrical, and mechanical problems. Air conditioning units experience a great deal of stress during the summer. The parts inside the outdoor unit can break down from the excessive strain. A contractor can check each part of the unit for wear and tear, loose wires, and rust.

A contractor can repair any problems they find, including minor issues. An AC contractor can also provide additional tips on how to maintain or store your unit during the cold season. 

For more information on how to keep your outdoor AC unit safe during winter, contact an air conditioning specialist today. Click here to continue reading.