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As summer winds down in Reno, NV, your air conditioner may finally be getting a break. After months of keeping your home comfortable through hot, dry weather, it can be tempting to simply switch the system off and forget about it until next year.
However, a little end-of-season attention can go a long way. Checking your AC now gives you an opportunity to identify problems caused by a long summer of operation, clean up around the equipment, and make sure it’s ready for its winter downtime. Here are a few steps worth taking before retiring your air conditioner for the season.
Give Your AC an End-of-Season Walkthrough
Start with a simple visual inspection. You should never open equipment panels or attempt any repairs yourself. Instead, look for obvious signs that something might need professional attention.
Check around your outdoor unit for accumulated leaves, weeds, dirt, and other debris. Make sure nothing is leaning against the equipment or obstructing airflow. Indoors, take a look at your HVAC filter and replace it if it’s dirty. Reno’s dry, dusty conditions can put filters through plenty of work over the course of a cooling season.
Think about your AC’s performance over the last few months as well. Did you notice strange noises, unusually long cooling cycles, inconsistent temperatures, or rising energy bills? These symptoms shouldn’t be forgotten just because cooler weather is arriving.
Consider Late-Season AC Maintenance
Spring is a popular time for AC maintenance, but it isn’t your only option. A late-season maintenance appointment can be especially helpful if your system worked hard throughout the summer.
During professional maintenance, an HVAC technician can inspect important components, check system performance, look for wear, and identify developing issues. Addressing a small problem now may prevent an unpleasant surprise when you turn the air conditioner on during the first warm stretch next year.
End-of-season service also gives you a better understanding of your equipment’s overall condition. If your aging AC is approaching replacement, you’ll have months to consider your options instead of making a rushed decision during the middle of a heat wave.
Should You Cover Your Outdoor AC Unit?
You may also consider protecting the outdoor unit during the off-season, but be careful about how you cover it. Completely wrapping an outdoor AC condenser in an airtight or moisture-trapping material isn’t usually necessary and could create unwanted conditions inside the equipment.
Instead, ask an HVAC professional whether a purpose-built AC cover or top cover is appropriate for your particular system. The goal is to limit debris accumulation without unnecessarily trapping moisture or restricting ventilation.
Finally, keep an eye on the outdoor equipment throughout fall and winter. Remove leaves and other debris that collect nearby and keep the area surrounding the unit clear.
Your air conditioner may be finished working for the year, but that doesn’t mean it should be forgotten. A professional late-season HVAC visit can help you retire your AC with confidence and give you a head start on next year’s cooling season.
Our HVAC technicians can inspect your Reno home’s air conditioner, address potential problems, and recommend any maintenance or improvements it needs. Take care of your AC now so it’s ready when warm weather returns.
Consider end-of-season maintenance with DeHart Plumbing, Heating, and Air Inc. for peace of mind.
