When most homeowners think about AC maintenance, the main focus revolves around the indoor components. Don’t forget – your home’s AC system consists of a series of indoor ductwork and an outdoor unit, too.
It is important to understand how the elements and other factors can affect the outdoor unit of your AC system. Do you know how to keep your unit safe from weather, debris, animals, theft and more? Follow this guide from Tim’s Southern Air to learn how you can best protect your outdoor AC unit.
Location, Location, Location
Summers in Louisiana can reach near triple digits. Therefore, it is best practice to place your outdoor unit on the northern side of your house, where the sunlight is the weakest. Placing it on the cool side of your house ensures the system isn’t working harder than it should to cool your home.
If you aren’t able to install your outdoor unit on the northern side of your house, consider placing it under a shaded area. Make sure to leave five feet of headspace above the unit to allow adequate airflow. Also, two feet of space on all sides allows an HVAC technician to service your unit.
Shielded from the Elements
Again, remember that providing shade for your outdoor AC unit in the summer is a good idea. But summertime isn’t the only time to pay attention to your air conditioning system. Winter weather can also impact your unit. Consider securing a piece of plywood to the top of your unit during winter.
This simple solution can help to keep freezing rain and debris off during inclement weather. While it isn’t recommended to seal the unit airtight with plastic, you can opt for a breathable air conditioning cover for the winter months. Avoid unnecessary spring repairs by taking care of your AC unit in the off-season.
Keep it Clean
Debris, dead leaves and dirt can easily enter your outdoor unit year-round. This build-up can cause your coils to stop working properly and result in the need for repairs. It is possible to clean your own outdoor unit if you feel comfortable doing so. If not, a trained professional can clean your unit as part of an annual maintenance routine.
At the very least, make sure to trim any shrubs and trees from around your unit to a distance of two feet away. Don’t let shrubbery grow too close–your air conditioner needs free-flowing air to work efficiently.
Safety First
Be careful when mowing and edging near your outdoor unit. While maintaining your lawn, cut and blow debris away from the case. If you’re not careful, sticks and stones can become lodged in the unit’s fins. These are delicate and become damaged easily.
Consider an air conditioner fence to keep the area around your unit safe and tidy. In addition to safety, establishing a clear barrier around your unit can help you recognize when the area needs maintenance. It also ensures that technicians have enough space to work while servicing your unit.
Routine Maintenance
In addition to keeping the area around your outdoor AC unit clean, you should schedule regular tune-ups. HVAC professionals recommend you schedule a tune-up twice a year – once in spring and once in fall. Breathe easier knowing your unit is running efficiently and avoid unwanted replacementsIt’s important to understand how the elements and other factors can affect the outdoor unit of your AC system. Southern Air South Louisiana is here to break it down!.
AC Care with Tim’s Southern Air
You rely heavily on your air conditioner throughout the summer – don’t let off-season neglect set you up for a costly breakdown. Avoid unnecessary repairs and replacements by practicing routine maintenance. Keep the area around your outdoor unit clear of debris and protect the case from damage throughout the seasons.
Schedule a professional tune-up twice a year and rest assured your AC will run for years to come. Time for a tune-up? Contact the professionals at Tim’s Southern Air – where quality service is our top priority.