Air Conditioning In Cold Weather
When the temperature drops to cold or freezing outside, your air conditioning system will face different challenges.
Ensuring your air conditioning works efficiently and safely during the winter months requires a little extra attention.
We spoke to our REFCOM Certified Engineers, to get his Top 5 Tips For Air Conditioning In Cold Weather to help you protect your system and potentially identify if you need to call an Air Conditioning Engineer out.
Top 5 Tips For Air Conditioning In Cold Weather
1. Look Out for Frozen Condensate Drains
If your air conditioning system has a condensate drain on the outdoor unit, freezing temperatures can cause significant issues. In extreme cold, the condensate may freeze, leading to blockages or burst drainage and piping. A frozen condensate drain can disrupt your system and result in costly repairs.
2. Heat Gradually for Best Results
During colder months, the lower outdoor ambient temperature means it takes longer for the indoor temperature to heat up. Avoid setting your air conditioning to maximum heat straight away. Instead, start at 19°C or 20°C and increase the temperature gradually. This method ensures quicker and more efficient heating without overworking your system.
3. Check for Ice Hazards from the Defrost Cycle
Outdoor air conditioning units enter a defrost cycle during cold weather that produces water. This water can build up, overflow and spill onto pathways below the unit and freeze, creating a serious slip hazard.
Regularly inspect your outdoor unit to ensure any water from the defrost cycle is draining safely. If ice has formed on the ground, remove it as soon as possible to prevent accidents and call an Engineer out to clear the overflow and resolve the problem.
4. Inspect Outdoor Units for Damage
Winter weather can physically damage outdoor air conditioning units and brackets.
From a safe place, visually inspect the unit to check for damage caused by flying debris, animals and weather conditions.
Look at the grilles to ensure they are not blocked or damaged by litter and inspect the brackets holding the unit to walls for rust or decay.
5. Never Open the Air Conditioning Unit Yourself
Air conditioning units are complex systems containing electronic wiring, refrigerant gas, and delicate internal components. Attempting to open or move the unit yourself is dangerous and could invalidate your warranty.
Always seek professional help from certified engineers, such as P & M Coppack REFCOM Certified Engineers. This is important for your safety and the longevity of your unit. We have the expertise to address issues safely and ensure the correct replacement parts are used.
Protect efficiency all year round
Following these top 5 tips for Air Conditioning In Cold Weather will help maintain your system in an excellent working order and remain cost efficient all year round.
By monitoring these routine checks, you can catch issues early and prevent further problems.
To find out more about our Air Conditioning servicing, maintenance, repairs and parts, simply get in touch on 01706 879336.
P & M Coppack customers also have access to their own secure online portal and can request support by simply scanning the unit QR Code on their mobile phone.
To request a call out, click below to book online or call 01706 879336.
