Is Your A/C Ready for Winter?

November 26, 2024 | Blog

As temperatures drop, it’s time to think about preparing your air conditioner for the off-season. Proper maintenance during the winter months can help extend the life of your system and ensure it operates efficiently when you need it again. Barker’s Cooling, Heating & Plumbing, serving College Station, shares expert tips to help you get your A/C winter-ready.

Is Your A/C Ready for Winter

Clean the Outdoor Unit

Leaves, dirt, and debris can collect around your outdoor unit, potentially damaging it and reducing efficiency. Clear the area to ensure your system stays in good condition during the winter months.

Expert Tip: Use a gentle spray from a garden hose to clean off dirt and debris. Avoid high-pressure water, which can harm the unit.

Cover the Outdoor Unit

A breathable cover protects your unit from debris, moisture, and ice without trapping condensation. This simple step helps keep your system in top condition.

Expert Tip: Avoid using plastic tarps that can trap moisture, leading to rust or mold growth.

Inspect and Insulate Refrigerant Lines

Check the insulation on your refrigerant lines to ensure it’s intact. Damaged insulation can lead to freezing or reduced efficiency.

Expert Tip: Use foam insulation sleeves or heat tape for added protection during colder weather.

Replace the Air Filter

Replacing your air filter helps maintain optimal airflow and prevents strain on your system. This small step can make a big difference in energy efficiency.

Expert Tip: Replace air filters every 1-3 months, even during the off-season, to maintain indoor air quality.

Adjust the Thermostat

Set your thermostat to heating mode and ensure the A/C isn’t running unnecessarily. This prevents wear and tear during colder months.

Expert Tip: Use a programmable or smart thermostat to optimize energy use and maintain ideal temperatures.

Schedule a Professional Inspection

Winter is a great time to schedule an A/C inspection. A professional technician can identify potential issues and ensure your system is ready for the next cooling season.

Expert Tip: Scheduling maintenance during the off-season can often save money, as demand for services is lower.

Keep Your A/C in Top Shape

Proper off-season maintenance is key to extending your air conditioner’s lifespan and ensuring peak performance. For professional A/C maintenance or inspections, contact Barker’s Cooling, Heating & Plumbing at (979) 398-5194 today.

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Why Choose Barker's?

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.

Very Impressed

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.