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When the chill sets in during winter, your air conditioner might be the last thing on your mind. That is understandable because it's designed to cool your home, not warm it, right? Well, not quite. Your air conditioner can be a valuable asset even during the winter as it can help you maintain a comfortable and energy-efficient home.
This guide will teach you how to make the most of your reverse cycle air system or split system air conditioner during the cold months while saving on heating costs.
Why air conditioner maintenance matters in winter
Your air conditioner is no ordinary device for cooling; it's more than that because it can also serve as a reverse cycle system. This means it can pump warm air into your home as efficiently as it cools it during the summer. Neglecting it during the winter can lead to efficiency problems and increased energy bills when you eventually need to rely solely on your heating system.
In the heart of winter, when the frost nips at your windows and there is a sharp increase in your heating bills, you might find it counterintuitive to consider your air conditioner as a solution.
However, you may find it surprising that it can be vital to your winter comfort and energy-saving strategy. An air conditioner, especially a reverse cycle air conditioner, has the potential to keep your home warm and cosy, and you will not have to break the bank.
Preparing your AC unit for winter
Getting your air conditioning unit ready for the cold winter is essential. The preparations will help your unit maintain functionality and top performance when needed. The following are some of the activities that are involved in this process:
Cleaning and debris removal
Before the cold season arrives, giving your air conditioner a little attention is crucial. You can begin by cleaning the exterior and clearing away any leaves, dirt, or debris that may have accumulated over time. A clean unit will operate more efficiently, whether in air conditioning mode or heating mode.
Dust and debris accumulation can clog the unit and reduce its efficiency. Before the winter starts, give your air conditioner a thorough cleaning. You can start by removing any accumulated leaves, dirt, or debris. A clean unit operates more efficiently, whether cooling or heating your home.
Covering your outdoor unit
You can invest in a breathable cover to protect your outdoor unit from harsh winter weather. Be sure to choose one specifically designed for air conditioners to prevent moisture buildup and rust. Covers will shield the unit from snow and ice and keep out moisture, preventing rust and potential damage.
Sealing any gaps
Check around the space surrounding your air conditioner for gaps or openings. Seal these gaps or holes with caulk or weather-stripping to prevent drafts from entering your home. With less heat escaping, there would be less need for your heating system to work, and this translates to energy savings.
Setting your thermostat
Most modern air conditioners come with a programmable thermostat. You can take advantage of this feature as it will help you to save on energy costs. Set your thermostat to a lower temperature when you're not home, and program it to warm up before you return. A lot of energy can be conserved, which could have been wasted heating an empty house.
You can program lower levels for your thermostat when you're not home, as this energy-efficient strategy serves well. A warm, cosy house doesn't have to be maintained all day when no one's around.
Many modern air conditioners have programmable thermostats that allow you to set schedules. Lowering the temperature when you're away and increasing it before you return makes you use energy efficiently.
Regular filter changes
During the cold winter months, when your air conditioner is in heating mode, regularly cleaning the air filters is a critical step you need to take. When the filters become clogged, the airflow can become restricted, making your system work harder.
This will lead to higher energy consumption. When your filters are clogged, your system must work harder to circulate the air. This can increase your energy consumption and your bills. Regular filter changes ensure your system operates at top performance and efficiently.
Winter air conditioner usage
Using your air conditioner during the winter isn't as counterintuitive as it might seem.
Here's why:
Benefits of dehumidifying
Air conditioners remove moisture from the air. This can be beneficial during winter. Dry air feels warmer since it allows you to lower the thermostat a degree or two without sacrificing comfort. Dry air also helps your skin retain moisture, which can be particularly beneficial in winter.
Improved indoor air quality
Running your air conditioner periodically during the winter helps filter the air and maintain good indoor air quality. Don't be surprised to learn that indoor air can be more polluted than outdoor air.
This can occur primarily during the winter when your home is sealed tight. Running your air conditioner with the fan set to "on" can help circulate and filter the air. Doing this can reduce indoor pollutants and improve overall air quality.
Monitoring and maintenance during winter
Remember to monitor your air conditioner's performance during the winter. Check for any unusual sounds or issues and address them promptly. Conducting periodic maintenance will ensure that your system operates at peak efficiency. During the winter, you should monitor your air conditioner's performance.
Check and confirm there are no unusual sounds or odd behaviours. Address issues promptly to prevent costly breakdowns or reduced efficiency. If you cannot address the maintenance issue, consider hiring a professional to perform periodic checks and tune-ups.
Energy-efficient heating alternatives
While your air conditioner can efficiently warm your home, it's not the only option. Consider energy-efficient heating alternatives like reverse cycle or split systems for even greater control over your indoor climate.
If you invest in energy-efficient heating alternatives, they can further improve your home's comfort and efficiency. Technologies like reverse cycle systems or split systems offer precise control over temperature. They can also be more energy-efficient than traditional heating methods.
Common winter AC problems and solutions
Even with the best maintenance, air conditioners in winter can face issues. Here are a few common problems and solutions:
Icing on the outdoor unit
Icing usually occurs in freezing conditions. If this happens, you must turn off your system and allow the ice to melt before turning it back on. Icing is a common issue where you have freezing conditions.
If you discover that your outdoor unit has been covered in ice, don't panic. Turn off your system to prevent further damage. Allow the ice to melt naturally, or carefully use warm (not hot) water to speed up the process. You can safely turn your system back on as soon as the ice is gone.
Reduced heating efficiency
If your air conditioner doesn't heat your home adequately, it may need servicing. Contact a professional HVAC technician to inspect and address the issue. Reduced heating efficiency is a concern, and it's best to address it promptly.
If your air conditioner struggles to heat your home effectively, it may indicate a problem. Find the best professional technician in your area who can help you assess the issue and make any necessary fixes.
Hire professional inspection and servicing
Consider scheduling a professional inspection and servicing for your air conditioner before and after winter because a technician can identify and fix any problems. This will ensure your system runs efficiently during both cooling and heating seasons.
Professional servicing ensures that your air conditioner is in top shape for cooling and heating seasons. Technicians can identify and address potential issues, clean and maintain the unit, and ensure it operates efficiently. Rest assured that these HVAC experts can help extend your system's lifespan and improve its overall performance.
