Now that we’re heading into winter in Pennsylvania, you probably won’t be needing your air conditioner for the next few months. Since you want to make sure that your AC will be working properly next summer, here are some things you can do to winterize your central AC unit.
1. Shut Off Your Outdoor Unit
You’ve probably already switched your thermostat to “Heat” instead of “Cool,” but you should also shut off the power to your central AC unit. If you have a dedicated circuit for your AC, go to your circuit breaker box in your house and shut it off. If you don’t have a dedicated circuit or don’t know how to shut it off, look for a disconnect box or panel near your unit. There should be a switch that you can turn off.
2. Cover the Top of Your Outdoor Unit
Covering the top of your unit with an awning that sits a couple of feet above your unit will protect it from snow and debris. Do not simply throw a tarp over the unit, however; this can cause it to develop mold and look like an attractive shelter for animals that could damage your unit.
3. Do Not Block Access to Your Unit
You should have at least three feet of clear space around your AC unit, even during the winter. Clear away any brush and shrubs that may have grown around your unit, and don’t place anything too close to it.
4. Keep Your Unit Clean
Your outdoor AC unit is always exposed to the elements, and it gets dirty very quickly. Before you retire your AC for the winter, clear away any leaves and branches that may have fallen onto it and wipe off the condenser coils if there’s a buildup of dirt and grime.
5. Contact J.J. Agnello Heating & Air Conditioning Inc in Erie, PA for Assistance
If you’re not sure how to properly winterize your AC unit or if you have any other HVAC-related concerns, contact J.J. Agnello Heating & Air Conditioning Inc for assistance. We provide heating and AC repair and maintenance to homeowners in Erie and the surrounding areas, and we can make sure that your central AC unit is in good shape before you shut it down for the winter.
For more information about our services or if you have any questions about winterizing your AC, contact J.J. Agnello Heating & Air Conditioning Inc in Erie, PA today.
