How to Prepare Your A/C for the Off-Season

As the summer heat fades, it’s time to prepare your A/C system for the off-season. Proper maintenance now can help extend the life of your air conditioning unit and ensure it’s ready for the next cooling season. Barker’s Cooling, Heating & Plumbing, serving College Station, provides essential tips on how to get your A/C ready for fall and winter.

1. Clean or Replace the Air Filter

After a summer of heavy use, your A/C’s air filter is likely clogged with dust, dirt, and allergens. Cleaning or replacing the filter helps maintain efficiency and ensures good indoor air quality.

Expert Tip: Check your filter regularly and replace it every 1-3 months, even during the off-season, to keep your system in top condition.

2. Clean the Outdoor Unit

Over the summer, debris such as leaves, grass, and dirt can accumulate around your outdoor A/C unit. Use a garden hose to gently clean the unit and clear away any debris from the surrounding area.

Expert Tip: Keep at least two feet of clearance around your outdoor unit to ensure proper airflow and prevent damage.

3. Inspect and Seal Ductwork

Leaky ducts can reduce your system’s efficiency and increase energy costs. Inspect your ductwork for any cracks, gaps, or damage, and seal them with duct tape or mastic sealant to prevent air leaks.

Expert Tip: Consider having a professional inspect your ductwork to ensure there are no hidden leaks affecting your A/C’s performance.

4. Adjust Your Thermostat Settings

If you have a programmable thermostat, adjust it for the cooler weather. Set your thermostat to a higher temperature or switch it to “off” to prevent your A/C from running unnecessarily during the fall and winter months.

Expert Tip: Consider upgrading to a smart thermostat that automatically adjusts settings based on the season, saving you energy and money.

5. Cover the Outdoor Unit

Protect your outdoor A/C unit from the elements by covering it with a breathable, weather-resistant cover. This will help prevent debris, moisture, and pests from damaging the unit during the off-season.

Expert Tip: Avoid using plastic covers, as they can trap moisture and cause rust or mold. Choose a cover specifically designed for A/C units.

6. Schedule a Professional Maintenance Check

A professional tune-up before the off-season ensures that your A/C is in excellent shape for the next cooling season. Technicians can clean the system, identify potential issues, and make necessary repairs to maintain efficiency.

Expert Tip: Annual maintenance can extend the lifespan of your A/C unit and prevent unexpected breakdowns.

7. Listen for Unusual Noises or Smells

Before shutting down your A/C, pay attention to any strange noises or odors. Rattling, banging, or grinding sounds may indicate loose components, while musty smells could suggest mold or mildew inside the system.

Expert Tip: Addressing these issues now can save you from costly repairs and ensure your system is ready for next summer.

8. Turn Off the Power Supply

For safety, turn off the power supply to your A/C unit at the breaker box to prevent it from turning on during the off-season. This step also protects the unit from potential power surges.

Expert Tip: Label the breaker switch for your A/C to make it easy to identify when it’s time to turn the power back on.

Schedule Your A/C Off-Season Maintenance Today

Properly preparing your A/C for the off-season can save you money, prevent damage, and ensure your system is ready for the next cooling season. Contact Barker’s Cooling, Heating & Plumbing at (979) 398-5194 or click here to schedule your maintenance service today.