At Ahoy! Cooling & Heating, we offer a wide range of services to help homeowners winterize their HVAC systems. Our service area includes Tampa, Florida and the surrounding areas, so we know all about the yearly climate concerns of this region.
It may seem counterintuitive for a state that enjoys relatively mild winters, but protecting your HVAC system from cold weather can improve its performance and make it last longer. It can help shield it from dirt and debris build-up as well as protect mechanical parts from temperature changes and ensure smooth operation.
In addition to covering the unit itself, you should also have a technician check your ducts for any obstructions to maximize the efficiency of your system. Covering your HVAC unit during colder months is a smart move that will reward you with improved functionality of your system as well as greater longevity down the line.
The Benefits of Covering Your HVAC System
Inclement weather and small critters can cause problems if an uncovered system is exposed to them. A special covering might reduce rust and corrosion from moisture trapped inside. The insulation also helps prevent a drop in the efficiency of the system over time.
Using a cover may even lower monthly energy bills if your unit is insulated correctly. Covering your HVAC system during winter can save money, extend its lifespan, and keep it working at peak performance for years.
How an Experienced Technician Can Properly Cover Your Outdoor Unit
During winter months, proper winterization of your outdoor HVAC unit is essential to ensure that it remains in excellent condition. A technician can assess your system and identify any problems that need to be addressed before storing the unit for several months.
By replacing worn parts, oiling motors, and lubricating fans, the technician can prepare your unit for storage. In addition, they may suggest steps you can take to keep your HVAC from freezing during extreme cold snaps.
An experienced technician can assess the size and condition of your unit and select a cover tailored to fit its shape requirements. They will put in extra effort to properly secure the cover, ensuring it won’t be blown away by windy weather and can withstand rain and other inclement conditions. With their expertise and knowledge of how long-term exposure to harsh environments can damage AC units, they can help you avoid costly repairs.
What Are the Risks of Not Covering Your HVAC System?
Failure to cover your HVAC system for the winter could have negative consequences. Not only could you be faced with the cost of repairs from broken or damaged parts, but the system may lose considerable efficiency.
During particularly cold winters, outdoor units left uncovered can repeatedly become frosted over, potentially resulting in decreased performance. Because January temperatures in Florida often reach the freezing point, AC pipes can contract and expand with the temperature fluctuations, possibly causing damage to their fittings.
Should You Call a Technician to Check Your System While It’s Covered?
Ensuring that your outdoor HVAC unit remains in top condition during its winter hibernation is essential for the unit’s long-term performance and reliability. To this end, it’s a good idea to call a technician once or twice over the course of the winter season. A technician can inspect all components of the HVAC system for proper insulation, check for visible corrosion, lubricate any moving parts as necessary and replace or repair any damaged parts.
When Should the Cover Be Removed?
When the winter months have concluded, you’ll need to have the cover removed before you can begin cooling your house again. A technician should remove the cover and inspect the system for any damage, debris, dirt buildup, or any other problems that could impact its performance.
If an inspection reveals any issues, performing repairs as soon as possible will ensure the efficient operation of the unit going into spring and summer. Our qualified technicians have the proper training and experience in working on outdoor HVAC units. When you work with us, you can rest assured that your system will operate at peak efficiency throughout the warm months.
Top-Notch HVAC Service in Tampa, Florida
At Ahoy! Cooling & Heating, our services include repairs and maintenance for heaters and air conditioners. We also offer duct cleanings, air filters and UV light installations for optimal air quality. Whether you want a cover for your outdoor unit or a professional ductless mini-split installation, call us at Ahoy! Cooling & Heating to learn more.
