With the seemingly quick transition from summer to winter in Ontario, it’s important to prepare your air conditioning unit before the first snowfall. By winterizing your AC, you can protect it from harsh weather, ice, and rust damage so that it’s ready to go for next summer.
Our ClimateCare technicians can help you maintain your air conditioning unit, and prepare it for the winter season. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.
5 Simple Tips for Winterizing Your Air Conditioner
Leaving your AC unit exposed to seasonal conditions can damage your unit and cost you money for repairs. A few simple steps will save you time, money, and sweat when summer returns.
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Turn It Off
Locate the AC electric disconnect switch near your unit and flip the switch to “off.” If there isn’t one, then switch the breaker at the main panel to “off”. By ensuring your AC has no available power, it won’t be able to turn on during surprisingly warm winter days.
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Clean Your AC Unit
Wash and wipe away dirt, bugs, or bird droppings from your AC unit. Also, clear away any dead grass, branches, and leaves that have accumulated in the area.
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Change the Filters
With a dirty and clogged filter, you run the risk of circulating dirt and allergens throughout your home. By changing your filter in the indoor unit before the winter, you’ll be better prepared for improved air quality and efficiency when the winter hits.
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Check the Insulation on the Pipes
Check that the foam pipe cover is in good repair and doesn’t expose the copper tubing anywhere. They help protect your AC pipes from cold winter temperatures secure the foam in place where you see any such exposure using duct tape or zip ties.
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Cover Your Unit
Covering your AC unit helps protect it from ice, snow, and cold winds. A waterproof vinyl cover works best and can be secured with bungee cords or vinyl ropes.
Schedule Regular Maintenance
Seasonal maintenance is necessary not only to help prevent problems but also to keep the system operating optimally. Our team will help you save money in the short term as you see lower utility bills and in the long term with a well-cared-for air conditioner that lasts for years and years.
Our technicians will complete a 22-point air conditioner checklist, which includes:
- Air filter cleaning and replacement
- Coolant level monitoring
- Drain cleaning, flushing, and vacuuming
- AC coil and fin cleaning
- Complete system inspection
To save you time and hassle, winterize your air conditioner and ensure that your unit is properly cared for, by contacting one of our ClimateCare locations today.
Sign up for a We Care Maintenance or Protection Plan, to receive annual precision tune-ups, priority service calls and a discount on regular labour rates if repairs are required.
ClimateCare Air Conditioners
ClimateCare is Canada’s largest heating and cooling co-operative, which means we’re owned by our members and are dedicated to providing you with the best experience. With options for financing, as well as maintenance and protection plans, we’re here to help you every step of the way with home heating and cooling systems, indoor air quality products, hot water solutions, thermostats, maintenance packages and much more.
