Preparing Your Air Conditioner for Winter: A Complete Guide for Bend & Redmond Homeowners

Thanks to their location in the mountains, winters in Bend & Redmond can get quite cold. While the neighboring mountains can easily get 30 inches of snow in a storm, Bend and Redmond averages around 20 to 30 inches of snow during an entire winter. However, Bend received almost 60 inches of snow during the 2016-2017 winter, so high snowfall can happen as well. 

Because of how cold the winter gets, it’s important to learn as much as you can about how to winterize air conditioner units. With the best AC winterization in Bend and Redmond, you can ensure your air conditioner is protected during the coldest months of the year.

Why Winterizing Your AC Is Essential in Bend 

Your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system is a finely tuned machine. It must be cared for throughout the year. Without proper maintenance, it will eventually break down and require costly repairs or replacements.

Deciding to winterize AC units in Bend & Redmond is particularly important because of how cold the area gets. Bend has a semiarid climate that receives an average of 21-23 inches annually of snow a year, and nighttime temperatures can drop as low as -10°F. By winterizing your AC, you can prevent ice, snow, and rain from causing rust and mold. The best seasonal AC maintenance can also help you keep pests out of your air conditioning unit.

Through proper maintenance, you can prevent dust, dirt, and debris from building up in your unit. By avoiding these issues, you decrease the likelihood of repairs and increase the longevity of your AC. Plus, proper care ensures your AC is ready to be switched back on when summer arrives.

Top Steps To Winterize Your Air Conditioner in Bend

At Central Oregon Heating, Cooling, Plumbing, & Electrical, we have helped countless residents choose the best AC type to install. We also provide routine maintenance and repairs, so your air conditioner will last for longer. Through the best AC maintenance in Bend & Redmond, you can keep your HVAC costs as low as possible.

Step 1: Clean and Clear the Area Around Your AC

Before winter arrives, remove weeds, debris, and plant matter from around the AC. This prevents anything from clogging your unit. Additionally, you don’t want plant matter in your air conditioner because it can hold moisture and lead to rust or mold. Ideally, you should remove any plants or debris that are in a 2- to 3-foot radius of the unit.

Step 2: Protect Your Unit With the Right Cover

Another one of the top AC winter care tips is to cover the air conditioning unit. There are specific covers available that can help keep snow, rain, and falling leaves out of your unit. Additionally, installing a cover can keep rodents and insects out of it. 

The cover must be specifically designed for an air conditioner, or it can end up locking moisture inside. Additionally, you should make sure to install the cover according to the instructions so that there is adequate airflow. 

Step 3: Adjust and Test Your Thermostat for Winter

During unusually warm winter days, your air conditioner might turn on, causing moisture in the air to condense inside the unit. This can be problematic because, in winter, the cooler outdoor temperatures slow the evaporation of this condensation, potentially leading to freezing or moisture-related damage.

To prevent this issue, check your thermostat to ensure it is set to heating mode rather than cooling. This simple adjustment will keep your AC from operating unnecessarily. For added precaution, consider turning off the air conditioner at the electrical circuit breaker if you don’t anticipate needing it for an extended period. This step ensures the system remains inactive and protected during the colder months, helping maintain its efficiency and longevity.

Step 4: Complete Any Necessary Repairs Before Winter

One of the best air conditioner maintenance tips is to repair your AC before winter arrives. It’s always easier to fix problems in nicer weather. Additionally, you want to complete repairs early so that you can cover up your AC to keep snow out. 

If you’ve noticed any of the following signs, you may need to arrange for AC repair services.

• Odd noises or smells
• Energy bills that are unusually high
• Short cycling
• Hot and cold spots throughout your home

Step 5: Insulate Your AC Pipes Against Freezing

Central air conditioners are set up with copper pipes that run from your air conditioner to your home. During the summer, these pipes are responsible for carrying refrigerant. Before winter sets in, the pipes must be insulated with pipe covers. To prevent these covers from falling off, you can use weatherproof zip ties to attach them.

Step 6: Replace Air Filters for Improved Efficiency

One of the most important things you can do to winterize an AC unit in Bend & Redmond is to replace your air filter. Normally, manufacturers suggest cleaning or changing your air filter every 30 to 90 days. You should check with your manufacturer or ask one of our HVAC technicians about how often your AC filter should be changed. 

AC filters are responsible for keeping dirt and dust out of your HVAC system. If you don’t change them often enough, your AC may need more frequent repairs. 

Keep in mind that some homes need more filter replacements than average. If an air conditioner is used more frequently or heavily than normal, the filter will need to be cleaned or replaced more often. 

Step 7: Schedule a Winterization Maintenance Inspection 

Before winter arrives, schedule a maintenance inspection with Central Oregon Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electrical. During the appointment, one of our technicians will check your HVAC system for faulty components and wear. We will clean and lubricate the parts. If there are any repairs required, we will discuss our recommendations with you and then get started on them right away. 

Routine maintenance can prevent the majority of repairs. Additionally, regular maintenance can improve your air conditioner’s energy efficiency and save a significant amount on your power bills. Through our maintenance plan, you can simplify your HVAC care and ensure your AC is fully ready for cold weather to arrive.

When Should You Get Your AC Ready for Winter? 

As you learn how to winterize air conditioner units, it’s important to remember that timing matters. The best time to winterize AC units in Bend or Redmond is in the fall before the weather gets cold. This gives you a chance to double-check your ducts, vents, and other HVAC components to ensure they’re sealed and fully functional before you use them for wintertime heating. 

Choosing a Maintenance Plan for Cold Season

As a part of winter AC checkup, you should look into getting a maintenance plan. At Central Oregon Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electrical, we offer the Greenshield Maintenance Plan. This plan provides you with year-round comfort and protection. If something goes wrong with your HVAC system, one of our technicians will give you VIP priority treatment.

A membership plan makes scheduling your maintenance activities easier. Our team will let you know when you need to schedule your next seasonal AC maintenance visit. Through our membership plan, you can enjoy the following benefits.

• Certified technicians
• State-of-the-art equipment 
• HVAC Expertise
• 24/7 emergency maintenance
• 100% satisfaction guarantee for maintenance and repairs
• 10% discount on repairs
• No overtime fees
• Exclusive promotions throughout the year

With our maintenance membership, you get two seasonal visits. During the fall, we’ll carry out your heating precision maintenance. Then, we’ll return in springtime to handle your AC precision maintenance.

At each visit, we’ll review your HVAC system and make recommendations about repairs. If you have an older HVAC system, we may recommend doing more frequent maintenance visits. We can also show you how to winterize air conditioner components. 

By working with Central Oregon Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electrical, you can ensure your AC is prepared for cooler temperatures. We’ll take care of your HVAC system, so you can relax and enjoy a beautiful winter.

How Does Bend’s Winter Impact Your AC’s Maintenance Needs?

Your air conditioner winter preparation is largely impacted by Bend’s local climate. Typically, Bend experiences lows of 23°F and highs of 39°F during the coldest month of the year. Although Bend doesn’t get nearly as much snowfall as the nearby mountains, its frigid temperatures mean you’ll need to take extra care with your AC winterization in Bend.

Prepare for Snow

Outdoor units are designed to handle the elements, but they still need protection from extreme weather conditions. When snow starts to fall in the Cascades, it’s a good idea to get your air conditioner ready. You should make sure there isn’t any debris or plant matter around the unit.

Before winter arrives, you should also clean the gutters around your home. Clogged gutters can prevent snow and water from draining off your roof. When this occurs, the snow can melt onto the top of your unit. If temperatures drop before the water dries out, it can cause ice to form on your AC unit.

Protect Against Debris 

While Bend doesn’t have extreme winds, it’s still important to protect your AC from falling debris. A cover can keep dust, dirt, plants, and other debris out of your air conditioning unit. However, it’s important to get a breathable cover that is designed for your specific unit so that it doesn’t end up trapping moisture inside.

Why You Should Sign Up for an AC Maintenance Plan 

When it’s time to winterize AC units in Bend or Redmond, your AC maintenance plan is incredibly important. No matter how cold it gets, your AC will be safe. The right maintenance plan and AC winter care tips can ensure your AC lasts as long as possible.

Have a Longer-Lasting AC

A typical central air conditioner will last for around 15 to 20 years. However, even the best air conditioner won’t last for long if it isn’t properly taken care of. Consistent AC maintenance means you’ll be able to save money and avoid getting new AC installations. 

Enjoy a Hassle-Free Maintenance Plan 

By signing up for a maintenance plan, you don’t have to deal with remembering and scheduling your appointments. When it’s time for a winter AC checkup, we’ll let you know. Afterward, we’ll send you a reminder right before our appointment. All you have to do is relax and let us handle all of your maintenance needs.

Avoid Breakdowns

Breakdowns normally happen during peak use, making them especially inconvenient. Fortunately, AC maintenance can prevent the majority of repairs from becoming necessary. With our air conditioner winter preparation, you can ensure your AC is cared for properly.

Enhance Your Performance and Efficiency 

The average annual electricity bill in the United States is $1,642. More than half of home energy consumption typically goes to heating and cooling needs. 

Luckily, AC maintenance can help you instantly reduce your energy consumption. For example, a 30% drop in refrigerant charge causes a 30% drop in system capacity. Similarly, changing a clogged air filter can improve your energy efficiency by 5% to 15%. 

By getting an AC maintenance plan, you can quickly improve your HVAC system’s performance and energy efficiency. In turn, this can save you a significant amount of money on your power bill. 

Why You Should Hire a Certified Technician for AC Service 

To get the top AC winterization in Bend or Redmond, you need to hire a certified HVAC technician. Your home’s air conditioner is essential for your family’s comfort. Like any other part of your home, it has to be well-maintained in order to perform at its best. Through the assistance of a certified technician, you can ensure your AC is as efficient and long-lasting as possible.

When you work with a certified HVAC technician, you can enjoy the following advantages.

• Craftsmanship: With a certified technician, you can be confident in the quality of the work. We understand a wide variety of brands and repair issues, so we know exactly what to do to keep your AC working its best.
• Warranties: Your HVAC system’s warranty likely requires you to get HVAC repairs and maintenance tasks performed by a professional. More importantly, we offer a warranty on our parts and services. If something goes wrong, we’re only a phone call away.
• State-of-the-Art Equipment and Technology: Our certified technicians work with all of the latest equipment and technology. We know about the latest developments, so you can enjoy having the most energy-efficient, cutting-edge HVAC components. 
• Reliability: By partnering with our certified technicians, you can be confident that your maintenance and repairs will happen right on schedule. Our technicians are noted for their reliability and punctuality. 
• Fast Results: Your time is important. You don’t want to spend days waiting for your repairs to be done. A certified technician knows how to do the job, so they don’t have to waste any time. Instead, they can complete the repairs as quickly and effectively as possible.
• Expertise: From regional climate variations to differences between HVAC brands, a certified technician has experience you can count on.
• Peace of Mind: One of the most important reasons why you need a certified technician is for better peace of mind. When you hire a professional, you can be confident in the quality of your services.

What To Do When Your Air Conditioner Breaks Down

By getting the best AC maintenance in Bend & Redmond, you can prevent many repairs. However, air conditioners may still break down from time to time. When this happens, there are a few things you can do to troubleshoot the problem. If these tips don’t work, you’ll need to reach out to an HVAC professional. 

Replace Your Filter 

Your AC filter needs to be cleaned or changed every 30 to 90 days. If it isn’t changed often enough, it will become clogged and reduce airflow in your AC. Because this causes your air conditioner to work harder, it can lead to additional wear and premature breakdowns. By replacing your air filter, you can quickly improve airflow in your HVAC unit.

Check for Tripped Breakers

Sometimes, a change in the electrical flow can cause a tripped breaker. You can solve this problem by flipping the switch. However, you should only do this once. If it immediately trips again, it means something else is wrong and you need professional help.

Look at Your Thermostat Settings 

Often, multiple people will have access to your thermostat settings. Because of this, you should check your settings to make sure it is in the correct mode. You can also double-check your thermostat’s functionality by changing the temperature. If the HVAC unit doesn’t turn on right away, there may be an issue with the thermostat. 

Get Professional Help

If trying basic troubleshooting doesn’t work, it’s time to get professional help. Many repairs, like charging refrigerant and repairing electrical wires, are potentially dangerous to perform on your own. As a result, you should reach out to a professional if you notice that your AC is having issues. Note any unusual sounds or smells because these may indicate what the underlying problem is.

As you wait for the HVAC technician to arrive, you can stay cool by closing your curtains or blinds. You can also turn on fans to help cool off your home. 

Once the technician arrives, they’ll quickly get to work on repairing your AC. We’ll diagnose the underlying problem, make the necessary repairs, and schedule your next maintenance visit. 

What Is Included in Our Air Conditioner Maintenance? 

With the top winter AC checkup, you can get your air conditioner inspected, lubricated, and cleaned. When one of our technicians arrives to handle your AC maintenance, they’ll carry out the following tasks. 

• Adjust Refrigerant Levels: If your refrigerant levels are low, you legally need a certified HVAC technician to adjust them. During our maintenance visit, we’ll check out your refrigerant levels and recharge them as needed.
• Change Air Filters: As a part of our maintenance visit, we’ll check out your air filters. If they’re dirty, we will clean or replace them.
• Check Your Thermostat: Then, we will look at your thermostat to make sure it’s calibrated properly. If the thermostat isn’t signaling your HVAC system correctly, we can reset, repair, or replace it.
• Lubricate Parts: Over time, moving components can wear down because of friction. By lubricating your AC components, we can prevent this from happening.
• Clean the Condenser Coils and Air Handler: To ensure your condenser coils and air handler are working their best, we will carefully clean them during our maintenance check.
• Tighten Components: Over several months of usage, the electrical components can get loose. We’ll make sure to tighten all of these components during our air conditioner winter preparation.
• Test the AC: The only way to know if your air conditioner is functioning properly is to test it. After we’ve finished the rest of our maintenance process, we will test the AC to ensure it’s working correctly.

By partnering with a professional HVAC company, you can get the best air conditioner maintenance tips. Our team provides local residents and business owners with better peace of mind. Thanks to our exceptional services, you can enjoy having better AC longevity, lower energy costs, and fewer repairs.

Get Expert Help Winterizing Your AC in Bend and Redmond, Oregon

The right air conditioner winter preparation can help extend the lifespan of your air conditioning unit and prevent repairs. At Central Oregon Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electrical, you can learn how to winterize air conditioner units and get ready for cooler weather.

Discover the best ways to winterize your Bend home by filling out our online form today.