12 Tips To Prepare Your Air Conditioner For A Snowstorm

Snowstorms in Australia are a rare occurrence, but they do occur from time to time. They disrupt everyday life and can be dangerous. It is important to get your air conditioning Sydney ready if you live in an area that may experience snowstorms. 

A snowstorm is defined as a weather disturbance that produces heavy snowfall accompanied by strong winds and cold temperatures. The heaviest snowfalls can drop up to 50 cm of snow per hour, covering the ground with a thick blanket of white powder. Snowstorms are usually caused by changes in weather patterns when cold air travels south from the poles towards Australia and meets warm, moist air coming from the oceans nearby. 

Snowstorms can affect air conditioners in a variety of ways. For starters, the freezing weather outside can cause ice to build up on your cooling unit’s condenser coils, which will reduce its efficiency and may even lead to complete failure if left unchecked. Additionally, heavy snowfall can block the outdoor vents that allow air to enter from outside and be cooled by the system. This means that while the air inside your home may still be cool, it won’t be as effective at reducing humidity levels or providing comfortable temperatures throughout your living space.

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To make sure that your air conditioner is ready for the winter season, here are some helpful tips you should follow.

Inspect the unit

Before winter begins, it's a good idea to have a professional check out your air conditioning unit and make sure everything is in proper working order. This includes inspecting the condenser coils, examining the refrigerant level and testing the electrical connections. 

Prepare exterior parts

Make sure that all exterior parts of the air conditioner are properly sealed and insulated. Check for any damage to wires, pipes, or other components that may be exposed to weather elements like snow and ice.

Clear away debris

Remove all leaves, grass clippings, dirt, and other debris that has accumulated around your air conditioner. This will help decrease the chance of corrosion or freezing during a storm. 

Clean outside panels

Give the exterior of your cooling unit a good wash with mild soap and water to remove any dust or grime that has built up over time. 

Create airflow

Make sure there is adequate space between your home’s siding and the outdoor unit for proper ventilation. 

Upgrade insulation

Check the insulation around your unit and make sure it is in good condition and properly installed. If not, consider replacing it with a higher R-value material that will better protect against cold weather conditions. 

Cover the outdoor unit

Invest in a heavy-duty cover specifically designed for air conditioning units to protect them from snow and ice during winter storms. Make sure the cover fits tightly to keep out any moisture or debris that may blow into it. 

Inspect ducts

Look for any holes or gaps in the ductwork of your home’s heating system that could cause cold air to be drawn into your house when snow accumulates on top of the outdoor condenser unit. 

Change air filters

Make sure to replace your air filter before winter arrives to maintain proper airflow throughout the system and prevent it from freezing up during cold temperatures. 

Check thermostat settings

Program your thermostat to keep the temperature inside your home at a comfortable level, but not too low as this could cause damage in extreme cold weather conditions. 

Turn off power

If you’re expecting significant snowfall or a major storm, consider turning off the power to the air conditioner to protect it from any surge or overloads that could occur due to fallen branches or other debris coming into contact with electrical wiring. 

Call a Professional

If you’re unsure of how to properly prepare your air conditioner for winter, consider contacting an expert HVAC technician who can inspect and make sure everything is running safely and efficiently. 

Following these tips will help you ensure that your air conditioner is in top shape before the next snowstorm arrives. Taking the time to properly maintain and prepare it can save you money in the long run by preventing costly repairs down the line. Stay safe and warm!