As winter approaches, you might wonder how to prepare your home for the cooler months. One crucial aspect of winterization is taking care of your air conditioning unit. While it’s true that Texas doesn’t experience harsh winters like some northern states, it’s still essential to winterize your AC unit to ensure it runs efficiently and to avoid potential damage.
Seven steps to winterize your AC unit
- Clean the exterior. Before you begin any winterization steps, it’s crucial to clean the external elements of your AC unit. Remove any debris, leaves, and grass clippings that may have accumulated during the fall. A clean unit functions better and is less likely to encounter problems in the future.
- Turn off the power. Locate the power switch for your AC unit and turn it off. This step is vital to prevent accidental startup during a warm winter day, which can damage the unit.
- Cover the unit. In Texas, winter temperatures are milder, but it’s still a good idea to cover your AC unit. Covering it with a waterproof and breathable cover can protect it from debris, moisture, and potentially freezing temperatures, ensuring it remains in good condition.
- Insulate refrigerant lines. Insulating lines prevents heat loss and energy inefficiency. Keeping lines protected is essential in Texas, where mild temperatures can lead to fluctuating heat and cooling needs.
- Check for leaks and damage. Inspect the unit for any leaks or visible damage. Texas weather can be unpredictable, with occasional cold snaps, so it’s important to catch and address any issues early to prevent further damage.
- Schedule a professional maintenance check. A qualified HVAC technician from Southern Air Mechanical can perform a comprehensive winterization check. They will ensure your AC unit is in good working condition and make any necessary repairs.
- Uncover and test your unit before using it again. As winter transitions to spring, remember to uncover your AC unit and turn it on. This step allows you to check if it’s working correctly before the hot Texas summer arrives.
Take the steps now to avoid future issues
Even in Texas, where winter is relatively mild, taking the steps to winterize your AC unit is a critical task that helps ensure its longevity and efficiency. By following these steps and considering the unique weather patterns in Texas, you can keep your AC unit in top shape and avoid the unexpected issues that can accompany temperature changes. Don’t wait to winterize your AC unit…a little effort now can save you time and money in the long run.
