Maintaining Your AC Unit During Boston Winters

As the winter season approaches in Boston, the piercing chill becomes a daily reminder of the formidable climate that this city is well-known for. The mercury dips, the snow starts to fall, and residents hunker down indoors, grateful for the warmth provided by their trusty heating systems. Yet it’s easy to forget the silent hero of the summer months, the air conditioning unit, which now sits idle and exposed to the harsh winter elements. 

However, neglecting your AC unit during these colder months could lead to costly repairs or even the need for a complete replacement come next summer. While paying attention to air conditioning in the midst of winter may seem counterintuitive, doing so can save you quite a bit of inconvenience and unexpected expenditure in the long run.  

Why You Should Care for Your Air Conditioner in Winter 

Firstly, winter weather can be detrimental to the outer components of your AC unit. Frequent snowfall and freezing temperatures can cause the unit’s condenser coils and other exterior parts to rust and corrode. Icicles falling from overhead can lead to physical damage, impacting the unit’s efficiency during the warmer months. 

To protect your AC unit from the brutal Boston winter and to ensure its optimal functioning when summer arrives, here are several steps you can take: 

• Provide adequate shielding to your AC unit, protecting it from falling icicles and harsh weather conditions. 

• Regularly clean and remove any snow or ice buildup to prevent corrosion. 

• Consider using a waterproof cover designed for AC units to yield additional protection. 

Winter is also the ideal time for preventive maintenance. Since the AC is not being used, it’s a perfect time to spot potential issues and fix them before summer. Regular maintenance includes cleaning or changing filters, checking for refrigerant leaks, and inspecting electrical connections. Doing so ensures a longer lifespan for your unit and optimal performance when it’s time to beat the summer heat. 

Essential Winter Maintenance Tips for Your AC Unit 

Here are some specific steps you can take to maintain your AC unit during the winter season in Boston: 

• Inspect your unit regularly: Keep an eye out for any signs of damage or wear and tear. If you spot anything unusual, call a professional to fix the issue before it worsens. 

• Remove debris around your unit: Regularly check the surroundings of your AC unit and clean up any leaves, twigs, or other debris that may have gathered. This helps keep the unit and its surroundings clean, preventing any potential obstruction to airflow. 

• Schedule a professional maintenance visit: Before the start of the summer season, consider scheduling a professional maintenance visit. A trained technician can thoroughly clean and tune up your AC unit, ensuring it’s ready for the next season. 

Performing these maintenance tasks can help extend the service life of your air conditioning unit, reduce utility costs, and ensure a comfortable environment in your home during the hot summer months. 

The Cost of Neglecting Your AC Unit During Winter 

Ignoring your air conditioning unit during winter could result in significant costs. When exposed to the harsh winter weather without the proper protection or maintenance, parts of the unit can get damaged or wear out prematurely, leading to costly repairs or even a complete replacement. A poorly maintained unit tends to consume more energy, leading to higher utility bills.  

Here are some potential costs associated with neglecting your AC unit during winter: 

• Increased energy bills: A poorly maintained AC unit has to work harder to provide the same level of cooling, which means higher energy consumption and, consequently, higher utility bills. 

• Costly repairs: Winter weather can cause damage to your AC unit’s exterior components, leading to expensive repair costs. 

• Replacement of the AC unit: In severe cases, neglecting your AC unit during winter could lead to significant damage, necessitating a complete replacement. Considering the high cost of a new AC unit, this is an expense you would want to avoid. 

By investing a little time and effort in winter maintenance, you can avoid these costs, extend the lifespan of your unit, and ensure it operates efficiently when you need it next summer. 

Contact Winters Home Service for Professional AC Maintenance 

Don’t overlook the importance of maintaining your AC unit during Boston winters. Taking care of your unit during the colder months can help you save money and avoid inconvenience in the long run. At Winters Home Service, we offer professional heating and cooling services, including preventive maintenance for your air conditioning unit.  

Contact us online or call us at 617-221-5899 to schedule a maintenance visit and keep your AC unit in top-notch condition all year round! Let us help you stay comfortable and worry-free through the harsh Boston winters.