Winter AC Care: 4 Mistakes That Lead to Costly AC Repair in Summer

Does an air conditioner need special care during the winter months? What should be done to ensure the condenser unit stays safe and ready for the cooling season? Here are some basic AC repair tips for wintertime air conditioner condenser care.

First, homes with heat pump systems have different concerns than air conditioner/furnace systems. Heat pump technology uses a reversing valve to change the direction of heat transfer. During the summer, the system moves heat from inside the home to outside the home. During the winter, the same components move heat from outside to inside of the home. In our region, the wintertime evening temperatures usually range between 40 and 50 degrees, and that is plenty warm enough for efficient heat pump use. Condensers for heat pump systems will work year-round, while systems with electric or natural gas heat will have the condenser sitting idle during the heating season.

It is doubly important, then, for heat pump/air conditioning systems to receive regular maintenance to ensure efficiency and to avoid costly and inconvenient breakdowns. System breakdowns happen most often during periods of extreme temperatures, so do not ignore your heat pump system’s maintenance.

• It is important to keep leaves and debris from gathering around the base of the condenser unit. The condenser functions by drawing lots of air through the tubes and fins that make up the walls of the condenser. A large fan in the center of the condenser pulls air, and it is strong enough to pull light items against the condenser walls.
• Smaller particles—dust, pollen, and mold spores—also get pulled into the network to collect on the tubes. Regular maintenance includes gentle cleaning to remove the buildup and improve the efficiency of heat transfer.

To Cover or Not to Cover? The Truth About AC Condensers and Future AC Repair

The condenser unit is designed to be weatherproof with a painted, protected surface. Vital electronics are housed in watertight compartments. However, painted surfaces and sealed compartments are no match for flood waters. Building codes for homes that are susceptible to localized flooding usually require condenser units to be installed above the flood hazard. Consult your AC repair contractor to determine whether your condenser is installed at the proper level.

The grill that covers the hollow center of the condenser allows air to move out freely, but it can also allow leaves and limbs to fall through. This is normal, but they need to be removed; a maintenance visit will include removing the leaves and limbs from the unit. It might seem prudent to cover the condenser unit to protect it from falling leaves and limbs; however, 

• Do not cover the condenser unit for heat pump systems. The condenser will be in use, and the airflow needs to be unimpeded. Also, it is very possible for south Texas days to warm up enough to require a couple of hours of air conditioning. Covering a condenser unit for either type of system during use can lead to damage to the compressor motor and fan.
• A solid cover might seem appropriate for keeping leaves and limbs from the center of the condenser for air conditioner systems, but not so fast. Without the free flow of air, the enclosed space is perfect for the growth of mold and mildew. A solid covering might also make the space warm and comfy for rodents and other pests seeking a winter home. These pests can gnaw on wiring, and their waste will damage sensitive electrical controls.

It is best to keep a condenser unit uncovered during the winter and ensure that the surroundings are clear of any obstructions.

Stop Summer AC Repair with Winter Prep

Don’t let winter neglect lead to a summer breakdown that requires emergency AC repair. Proper winterization ensures your condenser is protected from debris, pests, and moisture, maintaining its efficiency year-round. Our certified AC repair technicians will inspect your system, clear the unit, and prepare your HVAC for the off-season. Call AirPro Houston today at 281-880-8805 to schedule your comprehensive HVAC winterization appointment!