Why should you winterize your HVAC unit?

December 03, 2015

As fall gives way to winter and the weather turns cool, there are certain steps that should be taken to prepare your home for the winter. This process, collectively known as winterization, is best done before the cold weather hits in full force. There are many different projects included in this winterization process, but one of the key concerns is ensuring that your HVAC unit is ready for the cold weather ahead. Ensuring that the unit is ready for winter will go a long way toward reducing cold winter’s drafts and increasing the longevity of your HVAC unit.

First Step:

Make sure that the air conditioning & heating vents are sealed for the winter. This step goes a long way to eliminating drafts in the home or office and is one of the major reasons that winterization of your air conditioner is so important. By keeping the cold air out, you improve the efficiency of your furnace during the cold winter months, saving you money on your utility bill.

Second Step:

Covering the unit protects it from ice damage and keeps the unit reasonably well insulated from wind and snow. Although central air conditioners are quite hardy, there are a few key components, which do not respond well to the cold.

Third Step:

Clean your HVAC unit and the surrounding area of fall leaves and other debris. This improves the look of your home and also helps to protect your system from degradation or breakage. Debris can hide damage done to the unit already, clog the unit and promote rust. A clean unit, makes other winterization projects that much easier.

There are many good reasons to winterize your HVAC unit, but perhaps the best reason is that it is a part of the standard seasonal maintenance of tour HVAC unit. By keeping up on seasonal maintenance, you maximize the lifespan of your HVAC unit.