As we make the transition from the cooling off-season to the heating up seasons, many homeowners come to the point where they wonder what to do with their air conditioner during the chilly winter months. Although it is not going to be used for three to five months or so, it’s important to know what you can do you take care of it and store it properly while it is not being used.
Air conditioning units are built to handle winter weather
Believe it or not, it is totally OK for you to leave your air conditioning unit outside in the snow all winter. It may be nerve-wracking, but know that your air conditioner is designed and built to be durable during any type of weather—including the harsh winters.
Although your air conditioner is built to sustain the harsh abuse of natural elements, there are things you should do to make sure it is prepared and protected in order to elongate its lifespan. Air conditioning contractors in Grand Junction, CO are more than happy to help guide you in the best ways to take care of your unit, but here are some things you can do on your own to make sure you are set to go this winter.
Four things you can do to protect your air conditioner this winter
1. Turn off the power: The first step is exactly that, turn off the power to your air conditioner. This won’t matter as you will not be needing it all winter, so there’s no reason to leave its power source on and running. Doing this will prevent any problems that could occur if you were to accidentally turn your unit on when it’s covered. Not to mention, you can save a few extra bucks on your energy bill. After all, every little bit counts!
2. Clear the area: Your next step is to make sure that the area around your air conditioning unit is free from debris or any other items or materials that may have collected around the unit over the summer and fall. Again, this is to make sure the unit stays clean and in good shape so it stays around longer.
3. Place plywood on top of the unit: This may sound a little silly, but hear us out. One major threat your air conditioning unit faces this winter is falling debris and icicles. When larger chunks of ice and debris fall they can dent and damage your unit. You can prevent this from happening by placing a piece of plywood on top of the unit and securing it with something heavy like a brick. This avoids damage as well as calling an air conditioning contractor in Grand Junction, CO in the dead of winter.
4. Use an air conditioner cover: Although this isn’t always necessary, it definitely doesn’t hurt to do. Putting an air conditioning cover over your unit can also protect it from falling debris, but you want to make sure you are using the right cover. If you purchase a cheap tarp or something to cover the unit, it can cause a buildup of moisture and provide a warm little home for animals during the winter. If you’re looking to put a cover over the top, spend the extra money to buy a cover that is designed to fit your unit. This will allow the unit to breathe over the winter as well as keep animals from huddling under there.