As winter approaches in Texas, it’s easy to forget about your air conditioner amid holiday preparations and cooler temperatures. However, properly maintaining your AC during the off-season is crucial to ensure its longevity and efficient performance when summer returns. Here are four essential tips that can help you prepare your AC for the Texas winter.
1. Clean and Clear the Outdoor Unit
The outdoor unit of your AC system is exposed to the elements year-round. During the winter, debris such as leaves, twigs, and dirt can accumulate around and inside the unit, potentially causing damage and restricting airflow. Before winter sets in, take the time to clean the condenser, clear the area around the unit, and remove any debris. Also, trim any overhanging branches or shrubs that could damage your outdoor unit during winter storms. You should ensure there’s at least a two-foot clearance around the unit for proper airflow. Although some maintenance can be done DIY, here are some reasons to why you shouldn’t do DIY AC maintenance.
2. Protect the Unit From Harsh Weather
While Texas winters are generally milder than those in Northern states, occasional cold snaps and freezing temperatures can still occur. To protect your outdoor AC unit from potential damage caused by freezing, consider covering it with a specialized AC cover or a tarp that is securely fastened with bungee cords. However, be careful to avoid trapping moisture under the cover, as this could lead to rust and other issues. Additionally, if your unit has a separate power switch, it’s advisable to turn it off to prevent the AC from accidentally turning on during the winter months.
3. Insulate Exposed Pipes and Lines
Your AC system features refrigerant lines and pipes in both indoor and outdoor units. Insulating these components can help prevent them from freezing and potentially bursting during cold weather. Foam pipe insulation can be wrapped around the exposed sections of these pipes. This insulation serves as a protective barrier, helping to maintain stable temperatures around the pipes, thereby preventing freezing. To secure the insulation in place, use duct tape or zip ties. This will save you from the inconvenience and financial burden of dealing with frozen or burst pipes when spring arrives.
4. Schedule Professional Maintenance
It is wise to schedule a maintenance visit for your AC system before winter sets in. This will ensure that your system is thoroughly inspected and potential issues are identified and resolved. Our maintenance services include cleaning coils, checking refrigerant levels, lubricating moving parts, and tightening electrical connections. These maintenance tasks can prevent major issues from arising when you need this equipment again next spring.
Reach Out to the Experts
Preparing for winter in Texas can be a hassle. But don’t worry because our crew at Hammack Service Company, Inc. is here to help! We specialize in heating and cooling solutions, repairing, maintaining, installing them. However, our commitment to your comfort goes beyond the realm of HVAC. In addition to ensuring your AC is winter-ready, we offer a wide range of assistance to meet your indoor comfort needs. From plumbing and electrical services to indoor air quality solutions, we’ve got you covered year-round.
Don’t wait until it’s too late! Contact Hammack Service Company, Inc. today for the best AC services in Richardson.
