How to Winterize Your AC Unit
As Phoenix and Las Vegas settle into their cooler months, many homeowners overlook a crucial task: winterizing their air conditioning units. While our desert winters are mild compared to other regions, leaving your AC system unprotected can lead to unexpected repairs and shortened equipment life. Even in our temperate climate, seasonal changes can expose your unit to damaging elements—from unexpected frost to corrosive dust storms.
At Semper Fi Heating & Cooling, we’ve seen firsthand how proper winter AC maintenance can extend your system’s lifespan and preserve efficiency. Taking simple precautions now can prevent costly repairs or downtime when summer returns.
In this guide, we’ll share our expert tips to winterize your AC unit so you can ensure it’s ready to perform when those triple-digit temperatures return.
Clean the AC Unit
Your air conditioner is vulnerable to the elements year-round, but cooler winter temperatures provide a convenient window for cleaning. To avoid electrical shock, start by turning off your AC (it’s getting less use anyway). Next, clear the unit by wiping away accumulated debris.
Look for and remove obstructions like:
- Dirt
- Dust
- Leaves
- Twigs and branches
- Bug carcasses
- Bird droppings
After the immediate vicinity has been cleaned and cleared, make sure to trim vegetation within a 2-foot perimeter of the AC unit. Doing so will allow for proper airflow once it’s time to power your AC unit back on.
Change the Air Filters
Your AC’s air filter is your home’s first line of defense against airborne contaminants that degrade performance and indoor air quality. As dust, pollen, and debris accumulate, your system is forced to work harder to maintain proper airflow. This additional strain not only elevates energy consumption but can also lead to mechanical wear and tear.
Winterize your AC unit by cleaning or replacing its air filters. The benefits of regular air filter replacement include:
- Optimal system efficiency
A clean air filter provides better airflow, enabling your AC system to perform at peak capacity.
- Reduced energy costs
When your AC operates efficiently, it consumes less power. By regularly replacing the air filter, you can potentially lower your utility bills and save money over time.
- Reduced wear and tear
A clogged filter forces your cooling system to work overtime, which can lead to overheating and eventual failure. By changing the filters regularly, you help extend the lifespan of your HVAC equipment.
- Improved indoor air quality
A clean air filter traps pollutants and allergens, providing you with healthier, breathable air. This is especially beneficial for individuals with allergies or respiratory issues, as it helps create a hygienic living environment.
Adjust the Thermostat
Cooler winter temperatures reduce our dependency on air conditioning. Use this to your advantage by adjusting your thermostat’s settings accordingly. When temperatures are nice outside during the winter, you can lower your air conditioner settings or turn off the system altogether. Adjusting your thermostat to reflect cooler outdoor temperatures not only reduces wear and tear but also reduces the amount of energy needed to cool your home.
Inspect the Ductwork
The air that’s cooled by your air conditioner is circulated through your home via a network of air ducts. As dust and debris accumulate in your ductwork over time, it can strain airflow, making it increasingly difficult to maintain HVAC efficiency.
Now is the perfect opportunity to have your ductwork professionally inspected for damage and cleared of the debris that’s built up during the cooling season. Consider scheduling an air duct cleaning appointment as part of your winter AC maintenance routine. During your appointment, air duct cleaning professionals will inspect for signs of air loss and make sure that areas with leaks are sealed for optimum performance.
Do a Test Run
Once you’ve taken the time to winterize your AC unit, make sure your due diligence has paid off with a test run. Start by turning your system back on and letting it run for 10-15 minutes. During this time, listen for abnormal sounds and observe your thermostat to make sure indoor air has reached the desired temperature.
If you notice anything out of the ordinary, call an HVAC professional immediately. They will send a trained technician over to double-check your work so that you can rest assured your AC runs smoothly when temperatures start to soar again.
Benefits of Proper HVAC Maintenance and Winterizations
Proper winter AC maintenance delivers substantial returns on your investment.
Some of the key benefits of HVAC maintenance include:
- Lower Energy Bills: A well-maintained HVAC system operates at peak efficiency, consuming less power to maintain desired temperatures. Regular maintenance, including clean filters and properly sealed ducts, can reduce your energy consumption by up to 15%, leading to significant savings on monthly utility bills.
- Extended System Lifespan: Just like any major appliance, your HVAC system needs regular care to perform at its full potential. With proper maintenance and winterization, your system can run reliably for 15 years or more, postponing the need for costly replacements.
- Improved Air Quality: Regular maintenance helps your system filter out dust, allergens, and other airborne particles more effectively. Clean coils, fresh filters, and sanitized components ensure the air circulating through your home stays clean and healthy.
- Prevention of Emergency Repairs: Routine AC and furnace maintenance helps identify and address potential issues before they escalate into major problems. This proactive approach not only saves you money but also prevents uncomfortable system failures during extreme temperatures.
- Enhanced Home Comfort: A properly maintained HVAC system delivers consistent heating and cooling throughout your home. You’ll enjoy steady temperatures, reliable humidity control, and quieter operation year-round.
Schedule a Free HVAC Inspection in Phoenix, AZ or Las Vegas, NV Today!
Winterize your AC unit during the cooler months to maintain its performance and longevity when Phoenix and Las Vegas heat up again. Don’t wait until summer’s intense heat returns to discover AC issues. Contact Semper Fi Heating & Cooling today to schedule an HVAC inspection.
