Preparing your AC for the winter season is simple, but it still matters. Even though winter in Kendall is warm compared to other places, your AC still needs proper care to stay strong and ready for the next hot season.
Many people think AC care only happens in summer, but winter is the best time to fix small issues, clean parts, and get everything running right. When you prepare early, you avoid surprise breakdowns, save money, and have a better-feeling home year-round.
Why Winter Is the Right Time to Get Your AC Ready
Kendall does not get harsh cold days, but temperatures do drop a little in winter. Because you use your AC less during winter, it’s the perfect time for basic care.
Here is why winter prep helps:
- You can clean and inspect the system without rushing.
- Your AC rests, which makes small repairs easier to handle.
- Technicians are less busy, so that you can schedule service faster.
- You avoid big problems when summer heat returns.
Winter prep also helps you catch early signs of trouble, like weak airflow or a strange smell. These small problems grow fast when humidity rises, so it is smart to fix them early.
Clean or Replace Your Air Filter First
Your air filter plays a huge role in how well your AC works. A dirty filter forces the system to run harder, wasting energy and causing it to wear down faster.
During Kendall’s winter season, dust still builds up because windows stay closed and air does not move as much. This makes filter care very important.
What to do:
- Check your filter every 30 days.
- Replace it if it looks gray, dusty, or clogged.
- Use the correct filter size for your unit.
- Choose a basic filter if you want better airflow.
- Choose a higher-rated filter if you have allergies.
Changing your filter keeps the system clean inside, maintains strong airflow, and helps you save money.
Clean the Outdoor Unit Before Leaves Build Up
Your outdoor AC unit needs good airflow to work well. In winter, more leaves fall, grass gets wet, and dirt builds up faster around the unit.
When this happens, air cannot move freely. Your AC may run harder in summer, wasting more energy.
Simple steps to follow:
- Clear leaves, branches, and dirt around the unit.
- Trim plants and keep at least two feet of space on all sides.
- Wash the outside of the unit with a gentle stream of water.
- Check the fan blades for dirt or small debris.
This easy cleaning helps your AC breathe better and keeps parts from wearing out too quickly.
Run a Quick Test to Make Sure the System Works
Even in winter, you should run your AC for a few minutes every few weeks. This keeps the system active, preventing parts from getting stuck or drying out.
Why this helps:
- The fan stays strong.
- Moving parts stay in good shape.
- You can spot early problems before summer arrives.
When you test your AC, listen for strange sounds, check if the air feels even, and look for leaks. If something feels off, winter is a calmer time to fix it.
Check Your Thermostat Settings for Cooler Months
During winter, you will not need cold settings all day. This is a good time to adjust your thermostat to reduce energy use.
Helpful settings:
- Set the thermostat a little higher since the weather is cooler.
- Use “Auto” mode so the fan runs only when needed.
- Turn the temp up a few degrees when you leave home.
These small changes help lower your electric bill and keep your AC in better shape.
Inspect Your AC for Common Kendall Problems
Kendall’s humidity can cause issues even in winter. Moisture builds up inside the system, leading to weak cooling or ice on the coils during hotter months.
Winter gives you time to check for these signs:
- Water around the air handler
- Strong musty smell
- Weak airflow
- Warm air when the AC starts
- Dust blowing from vents
- Random clicking or buzzing sounds
If you ever notice ice on the system during humid months, you can learn why this happens by reading this article about why your AC keeps freezing up in Kendall’s humid weather. Catching issues early helps you avoid bigger repairs later.
Schedule a Professional AC Tune-Up During Winter
Even simple home care cannot replace a complete inspection from a trained AC technician. Winter is the best time to schedule a tune-up because companies have more open slots and work faster.
A winter tune-up often includes:
- Checking refrigerant levels
- Cleaning the coils
- Testing the electrical parts
- Checking the fan motor
- Cleaning the drain line
- Inspecting the duct system
- Testing air temperature
- Making sure nothing leaks
A simple tune-up prevents expensive problems during summer heat waves. It also helps your AC run smoother and last longer.
Watch for Unusual Noises or Smells
Your AC should run smoothly and quietly. Any noise or smell is a sign that something is wrong.
Noises to watch for:
- Clicking
- Buzzing
- Humming
- Rattling
- High-pitched whines
Smells to watch for:
- Burning smell
- Musty smell
- Strong dust smell when starting
Winter is the perfect time to fix these issues before they turn into bigger problems.
Preparing Your AC for The Winter Season
Getting your AC ready for the winter season helps your system last longer, stay clean, and run better when the hot weather returns. Simple steps like cleaning the filter, clearing the outdoor unit, checking airflow, and running short tests keep your AC in good shape all winter.
With the proper care now, you avoid stress and high bills later. A calm winter is the perfect time to give your AC the attention it needs.
