Winter Storage Tips for AC Units in Ottawa
By Darren McClurg, CMI ·
Winter Storage Tips for AC Units
1st problem:
Get the unit off the ground!
What does metal do sitting in water? It undergoes a chemical reaction called corrosion, where the metal reacts with the water and oxygen to form metal oxides or hydroxides, essentially “rusting,” and releasing hydrogen gas, gradually weakening the metal over time.
You HAVE to get the unit off the ground! With a stand or brackets to screw into your foundation.
2nd problem:
I’ve been into a few newly built homes that were only 2 years, but the AC unit looked like it was 15 years old. They said the AC doesn’t need a cover?!
Here’s rust on a 4 year old AC unit that has never been covered.
Animals get into AC units when they’re on the ground.
People refuse to put covers on their AC unit for the winter. Some just put a piece of plywood or cardboard only on the top?
When your AC unit is beaten with the harsh winter weather without any protection, that could start to have issues with wiring?
The wiring inside an AC unit, when properly installed, maintained & covered, can typically last between 15 to 25 years; however, the exact lifespan depends on the quality of the wire, the operating conditions (temperature fluctuations), and how often the unit is used.
If an AC unit is left uncovered during the winter, potential issues include: debris buildup on the coils, damage from falling ice or snow, rusting of metal components due to moisture, animal nests within the unit, and potential blockages from leaves or other debris accumulating inside the unit; all of which can significantly impact its efficiency and lifespan when you try to use it again in the summer.
Have you ever been into someones garage & they covered a precious antique vehicle or an expensive vehicle? Do you remember what it looked like covered?
The same as these example photo, they’re not going to put a little piece of plywood or cardboard on top. They actually care & want to preserve the life & look of the vehicle, when it comes out of storage it looks brand new & ready!
I never recommend going to any big box store for a cover, nowadays they start at $50-$75 (all depends on the type & size of the unit)
I simply recommend just going to the $1 store, buy 1-2 tarps roughly $4/each & bungie cords $4 for 5.
You just spent a whopping $12! Be smart with your money, these tarps will last just as long as you’re $75 cover!
So, when you’re done using the AC unit for the year, you turn off the exterior water valves in the basement, put your cover on the window well. Before covering your AC unit, get a hose with lighter spray & hose down the coils. Your done for the winter, enjoy the hot chocolate!
Air Conditioner Maintenance
To help you understand more, to keep your home well maintained. I highly recommend going to my checklists & downloading them for free.