REMINDER - Prepare your AC Unit for Winter

 DO IT YOURSELF

Check List for Winterizing Your HVAC System

Taking a bit of time to prepare your Air Conditioning for the winter months can save you from having problems in the spring.  It is not a complicated process but does take some time to complete each step.  So, if you do not have someone coming in to do it for you, here are the simple steps you can take to do it yourself. 

1. We will get a lot of falling debris from all the trees around our community spaces.  The units will still function with a bit of debris in them, but it is better for outdoor AC units if any leaves and dirt are cleared out and not left to sit in the unit all winter. 

a.  To do this, make sure that the power to the unit is turned off (and that it is not set to turn on with any change in temperature at the thermostat).

b.  Take the top cover off and use a vacuum to remove all the leaves and debris.

c.  Use a hose to wash off the fins (aka blades) that rotate around the compressor within the unit.

d.  Allow the unit to dry completely before replacing the top.

2. We have no idea what kind of winter we will have this year, but chances are we may encounter a power outage at some point.  Even with the power for the AC turned off at the thermostat, there is still a risk to the AC unit through power surges if we have any outages and then power is restored, along with low voltage leaks that can potentially impact the compressor.  To prevent a potential issue with the compressor it is recommended that you turn the power off to AC system for the winter.  Turn off the power to the compressor at the breaker box so that random power surges cannot cause damage to the unit.  It will be important to turn this breaker back on in the spring before you use it for the first time.

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3. The AC refrigerant line runs from the inside to the outside of your condominium.  This line needs to be insulated to maintain the temperature of the refrigerant and to prevent corrosion to the pipe.  When inspecting the pipe, make sure there are no chunks missing or gaps in the insulation.  If so, additional insulation should be wrapped around the pipe to protect it in the winter months.

4. There are a variety of HVAC covers on the market, however it is not usually recommended that you use one.  The outdoor units are made to withstand the effects of moisture and colder weather will not change that. Using waterproof covers can tend to trap any moisture within the unit, causing rust, mold, and other problems to the unit. Use of covers also tends to make the internal areas of the units more inviting to mice during the winter months.  To allow adequate air circulation all winter it is recommended that you do not cover the units with fabric covers or plastic.  If there is a lot of falling debris from leaves around your unit, it is recommended to use a piece of plywood to prevent debris from falling or blowing into the unit, while still allowing for air circulation.

5.  Lastly, fall is the best time to have your furnace inspected and serviced, before the winter months are upon us.  If you have not had your ductwork inspected or cleaned in the past, it is also advisable to have it checked around the time the furnace is serviced.  For a list of recommended furnace vendors, contact Lindsay Flynn in the management office or see the newsletter blog for other co-owner recommendations.