Covering Your Condenser Unit: Why Winter Protection Matters!
Don’t Let Old Man Winter Wreck Your HVAC System
Your outdoor condenser unit is tough, but it’s not invincible. Snow, ice, freezing rain, falling branches, and especially piles of wet leaves in due time can all cause expensive damage to your condenser. Here are the four top reasons to use a proper condenser cover:
- It prevents ice buildup on the coils: Ice bends delicate aluminum fins and forces the system to work harder (or fail) when Spring arrives.
- A condenser cover can lock moisture and corrosion out. In other words, rust eats away at metal parts and electrical connections, thus shortening the lifespan of your unit.
- Furthermore, keeping debris out, such as, leaves, twigs, and acorns, can clog the fan and coil. With this intention reducing airflow and efficiency.
- Sheilds from heavy snow loads: A collapsed coil housing means a full replacement, not a repair.
What Not to Use
Never wrap your unit in plastic sheeting, trash bags, or tarps. It’s important to realize that these traps condense and accelerate rust. In this case always choose a strong, breathable, waterproof cover designed for HVAC condensers. If you don’t know which brand to use, call our office for advice at (661) 270-1961, or schedule a technician to come out, and we will take care of it for you.
If installing your own condenser cover, follow these pro tips:
- Turn off the power at the disconnect box before covering.
- Clean the unit and the surrounding area first
- In addition, secure the cover with bungee cords or straps
- Always remove the cover in the Spring before turning the system back on
Winterizing takes a minimum of 30 minutes
This can save you thousands in repair oas well as replacement costs. Most importantly, you must do this before the first hard freeze, so check Wunderground weather . However, if you need help, our certified technicians offer a complete winterization service: cleaning, coil inspection, and professional cover installation. Call (661) 270-1961 to schedule yours today, or go to our website, www.acdaveheatingandair.com, to book online.