Michigan winters are hard on outdoor air conditioning units. A few simple steps done now protect your system and help it to run efficiently when next cooling season returns.
1. Shut off power at the disconnect. Turn off the outdoor disconnect switch (or breaker) so the unit isn’t drawing power all winter.
2. Clear debris from the unit and surrounding area. Remove leaves, grass clippings, and mulch from the condenser coils and base. Trim back shrubs at least 2 feet on all sides.
3. Clean the condenser coils. A gentle hose rinse (never a pressure washer) clears dust and buildup that can corrode coils over time.
4. Check and cover appropriately. Use a breathable cover designed for outdoor AC units — never wrap it airtight in plastic, which traps moisture and encourages rust and mold.
5. Inspect the pad and drainage. Make sure the unit is still level on its pad and that water drains away from the base, not toward it.
6. Protect against ice and snow buildup. Keep snow shovels and roof runoff away from the unit throughout winter to prevent ice damage to the fan and housing.
7. Schedule a fall HVAC tune-up. A professional inspection by a Bay City mechanical contractor like Haertel Heating and Cooling can catch refrigerant, electrical, or component issues before they become costly repairs next spring.
Proper air conditioner winterization protects your investment and keeps your Bay City area cooling system running smoothly for years to come. Good luck! And let us know if we can help!
