It may not get too cold in Phoenix during the winter, but cooler temperatures still bring a welcome break from the need for non-stop air conditioning – and that means a transition from your cooling to heating systems. So do yourself a favor and make sure your HVAC systems are prepared for the switch by taking a look at the steps below!
Shut Down Your Air Conditioning System
If you have a heat pump, you won’t have to worry about this step since it uses the same outdoor unit to heat your home. However, if you have an all-in-one air conditioner/furnace combo, you should take a little time to go outside to your outdoor unit and switch your air conditioning unit off in the little box nearby to protect it during the coldest months.
Clean Out Your Air Conditioning System
After a long summer, and monsoon season, your air conditioning system is likely caked with dust and debris, especially around its fins and coils. And while this may not seem like a big deal now, it is likely to compromise your system’s efficiency next season if you leave it to get even filthier. That’s why, we recommend most property owners to spend at least a little time cleaning everything out between the seasons. It’s even easier than you think, simply:
- Turn your unit all the way off;
- Remove all large debris from around the system’s fins (leaves, sticks, etc.);
- Unscrew and open up the top of the unit to expose the copper coils wrapped around the inside of the unit;
- Spray the coils down with water using a gentle/medium hose pressure, taking special care to avoid the fan motor, or any other electrical components;
- Generously apply professional HVAC coil cleaner and let it sit for at least 10 minutes to effectively dissolve any dust/grime buildup;
- Rinse again to remove any leftover cleaner and/or grime;
- Use the hose one last time, on the same lower setting, to clean off the fins and other external components.
Once the unit is completely clean and dry, a cover can be added to further protect it from the elements during the off-season – unless you have a heat pump. Because heat pumps use the same outdoor unit for heating and cooling, if you have one you will want to leave your outdoor unit uncovered all year long.
Schedule A Tune-Up For Your Heating System
Like any eye exam or annual check up at the doctors is good for you, getting your HVAC systems checked out every season is good for your property’s overall health and efficiency. A thorough inspection will let you know what kind of shape your heating system is in, what kind of maintenance or repairs it might need before it starts getting cooler, and at the very least will prevent you from suffering through winter without heat because of any unexpected breakdown.
Ready to schedule your check up, or get your HVAC systems professionally cleaned? Tru Comfort Heating and Cooling has your back. Whatever you need to get you property ready for the new season, just let us know and we will make sure it’s taken care of as soon as possible! Call Tru Comfort Heating and Cooling today at (602) 499-7855 for a free consultation*, or simply fill out the form in the sidebar, to see how we can help.
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