Although winter isn’t typically the season for cooling, it’s a great time to take care of your air conditioning system. Off-season maintenance can help prolong your A/C’s life and ensure it’s ready for warmer weather. Surgi’s Heating, Cooling, Electrical & Plumbing, serving New Orleans, shares essential tips for maintaining your A/C during the winter months.
1. Clean the Outdoor Unit
During fall and winter, leaves, dirt, and other debris often accumulate around your outdoor A/C unit, blocking airflow and potentially damaging components. Clearing debris keeps your system in good shape for when it’s needed again.
Expert Tip: Use a gentle hose spray to remove dirt, avoiding high pressure that could harm sensitive parts.
2. Cover the Outdoor Unit
Consider covering your A/C’s outdoor unit to protect it from debris and moisture. Choose a breathable cover that keeps rain, snow, and dirt out but allows airflow to prevent rust and mold.
Expert Tip: Avoid using plastic tarps, which can trap moisture. Instead, select a cover made for A/C units to ensure proper ventilation.
3. Check the Insulation on Pipes
Inspect the insulation around your refrigerant pipes to make sure it’s intact. Insulation keeps pipes from freezing, so replacing any worn or damaged sections is essential to protect the system.
Expert Tip: If you’re unsure which insulation material to use, consult with a technician for expert guidance.
4. Adjust the Thermostat Settings
Switch your thermostat to ‘Off’ or set it to heating mode for the winter. This prevents the A/C from accidentally running on mild days, which can cause unnecessary strain.
Expert Tip: Set a reminder to change the thermostat back to cooling mode in spring, so your A/C is ready when temperatures rise.
5. Schedule a Professional Tune-Up
The off-season is the perfect time to schedule a professional inspection. A technician can check refrigerant levels, inspect the coils, and ensure all components are in top shape for next season.
Expert Tip: Many companies offer off-season discounts, so scheduling maintenance during winter could be more affordable.
Protect Your A/C System This Winter
Taking care of your A/C during the off-season will save you from repairs and ensure it’s ready to work efficiently when needed. Surgi’s Heating, Cooling, Electrical & Plumbing is here to help with professional maintenance services. Contact us at (504) 215-7421 or click here to schedule an inspection or tune-up for your A/C system.
