October is here and we’ll soon be experiencing snowy weather. That means Massachusetts homeowners have to think about switching out their cooling for heating. However, you also have to start thinking about how you’ll protect your AC, as it has an indoor unit and an outdoor condenser. To ensure the condenser will be safe, you need to shut down your AC to disconnect it from power and protect it from the elements. At MillTown, we can advise you on how to properly protect your AC from the winter.

Here’s what you have to do to properly shut down your AC:

Repair any damage

Before you shut your AC down for the winter, you should check to see if your AC needs repair. If there is something that needs fixing, give us a call to get it fixed. Ignoring your AC unit’s damage allows it to worsen over the winter, where it becomes a unit-breaking issue.

Turn off the condenser

There’s more to shutting down the AC than turning off the indoor unit’s power. You also have to disconnect the outdoor condenser from the power. If you don’t, a warm spell could cause the condenser to turn on and sucking in ice and snow. To turn off the condenser’s power, look on the side of the house or near the condenser for the AC unit’s breaker switch and turn it off. Keep in mind that you’ll have to turn this switch back on in the spring when you want to use the AC.

Tidy up the condenser

With the power sorted, you should take a moment to clean up your condenser. Find a broom and sweep away any sort of debris around and on your condenser, such as loose branches and leaves. After that, you should lightly wash off the condenser’s outside cabinet with a hose. While it’s drying, look and see if the filter needs replacing, make sure the condenser’s seals are tight, and check to see if there’s any visible damage. If you do see any sort of damage, let us know the next time you need our service.

Cover up the condenser

When the condenser dries off, just cover the condenser with a water-proof cover. If you don’t own one, you can usually find one at the hardware store. Alternatively, you can use a water-proof tarp as long as it covers the entire condenser. Also, make sure you use bungee ropes to secure the cover so it won’t be blown away by the wind. The hardware store also usually sells ropes.

What makes MillTown the go-to company for AC work?

MillTown Plumbing is a family-owned and operated business established in 1979. Ever since the company was founded, we’ve stayed true to our commitment to the people of Northeastern Massachusetts and Southern New Hampshire: our licensed and bonded technicians offer honest answers to all of your questions, and we provide cost-effective, permanent solutions to keep your home healthy and safe. That commitment to your satisfaction has guided us for over 35 years of commercial and residential home service, and the result is that homeowners in Northeastern Mass and Southern NH trust us more than anyone else for quality home repairs and emergency service. Call us today to learn more about preparing your home for the winter!

By Milltown Plumbing