Common Off-Season A/C Mistakes to Avoid

December 9, 2024 | Blog

Even when your air conditioner isn’t running, how you care for it during the off-season can have a significant impact on its performance and longevity. Barker’s Cooling, Heating & Plumbing, serving College Station, shares the most common mistakes homeowners make and how to avoid them.

Forgetting to Clean the Outdoor Unit

Leaves, dirt, and debris can accumulate around your outdoor unit during the off-season, potentially causing damage or blockages.

Expert Tip: Use a garden hose to gently clean debris off the unit and ensure at least two feet of clearance around it.

Neglecting to Cover the Unit

Exposing your outdoor A/C unit to winter weather can lead to rust, corrosion, and damage from falling debris.

Expert Tip: Use a breathable cover designed for air conditioners to protect the unit without trapping moisture.

Skipping Air Filter Replacement

Even during the off-season, dust and debris can clog your air filters, reducing indoor air quality and efficiency.

Expert Tip: Replace air filters every 1-3 months to maintain clean airflow throughout your system.

Failing to Adjust the Thermostat

Leaving your thermostat set to cooling mode during the winter can waste energy and unnecessarily strain your system.

Expert Tip: Switch your thermostat to heating mode for the colder months and program it for energy efficiency.

Ignoring Refrigerant Line Insulation

Damaged or missing insulation on refrigerant lines can lead to energy inefficiency and system wear.

Expert Tip: Inspect the refrigerant lines and replace any damaged insulation as needed.

Skipping Preventive Maintenance

Postponing A/C maintenance during the off-season can result in costly repairs when you need your system the most.

Expert Tip: Schedule a professional inspection to catch and address small issues before they escalate into major problems.

Overlooking System Upgrades

If your air conditioner is old or underperforming, the off-season is an ideal time to consider an upgrade.

Expert Tip: Take advantage of off-season discounts and flexible scheduling for installations.

Protect Your A/C Year-Round

Avoiding these common off-season mistakes helps ensure your air conditioner is ready to keep your home comfortable when warmer weather returns. For professional maintenance, repairs, or upgrades, contact Barker’s Cooling, Heating & Plumbing at (979) 398-5194 today.

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Helpful Information For You And Your Home

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30% UTILITY SAVINGS GUARANTEE

You will save a minimum of 30% on your heating and cooling costs or we will refund double-the-difference of your savings not realized during the first year.

$500 INSTALLATION DATE GUARANTEE

If we do not have your new system operating by the date promised, we will pay you $500 for your inconvenience.

COMFORT GUARANTEE

We guarantee that the equipment we have installed will perform as we have stated, or we will remove it and return 100% of your investment.

What Our Customers Are Saying

Very Professional

Chandler did an excellent job checking out our heat pump. He was very professional, communicated well, was responsive to our questions and I was very happy with everything he did.

Steve M.

Honest and Trustworthy

Our AC went out during a late summer heatwave. Called Barkers and Victor worked very hard to get the outside unit up and running. Two hours later we conceded to the death of a 29 yo unit. Victor notified the office the next morning, and within 24 hours we had a complete new system installed, and the house cooled by the time I got home from work. Highly recommend. Honest and trustworthy.

Susan H.

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We were impressed by this company from the first phone call. Reed was an exceptional young man; very personable and professional. The installation team of Mike, John and Cody did an excellent job. Barker’s is a business with high standards and we are very satisfied with everything about them. So glad we found this company!

Donna D.