Your air conditioner keeps you cool and comfortable. You want it to last as long as possible, especially since a replacement requires a substantial investment. One of the biggest culprits that threatens your cooling system’s longevity is winter’s harsh weather. Understanding how snow, ice, and cold temperatures affect your AC will help you avoid damage, corrosion, and mechanical strain.

Why Winter Leads to AC Damage

Ice and snow can accumulate on your AC. This adds excessive weight to the coil fins and fan blades. As a result, these components can bend or break, which can block airflow. This means the AC will have to work harder, which speeds up wear on the compressor.

If you have a standard AC compressor, it more than likely uses a heavy-grade oil for lubrication. This oil thickens in cold temperatures. When you try to use your AC in temperatures below 60 degrees Fahrenheit, that thick oil prevents proper lubrication. This leads to the compressor overheating and experiencing mechanical failure. Furthermore, if you use your AC when it’s cold outside, condensation will freeze on your cooling coils. This causes stress on the motor and can result in fin and coil damage that you can’t repair.

When snow and ice melt, it traps moisture within the AC. That moisture causes rust and corrosion on metal parts, such as the electrical panel and wiring. Icicles that fall from your gutters, along with wind-borne debris, can also damage the AC housing and its internal components.

Another concern is pest infestation. As the temperature drops, small animals look for shelter. Your outdoor AC unit provides them with exactly what they’re looking for. Unfortunately, these pests can chew through your Freon lines and wiring.

Maintenance and Prevention

Turn the power to your AC off at the outdoor disconnect box once the cooling season is over. This helps you avoid accidental use during warm winter days.

Keep the area around the outdoor compressor free of leaves and snow to ensure proper drainage and airflow. Keep the gutters above the AC clear as well. This prevents icicles from forming and falling on it.

Use a protective covering for your AC, but resist the urge to completely wrap it in plastic. Plastic will trap moisture and encourage corrosion.

Most importantly, have professional technicians regularly inspect your AC. They can identify and repair small issues before they escalate into costly repairs and premature replacement.

A little proactive care will go a long way when it comes to extending your air conditioner’s lifespan. Try these tips and be sure to schedule routine professional AC maintenance. Call Alta Air in North Salt Lake, UT today for all your AC installation and service needs.