As winter approaches in the Hunter Valley, it’s time to transition your air conditioner system from cooling mode to heating mode. Some homeowners forget that their air conditioner can do much more than just keep them cool during the summer – it can also provide efficient heating throughout the colder months.
Our Top 5 Essential Maintenance Tips
To ensure your air conditioner performs optimally during the winter and keeps your home warm and cosy, you’ll need to take a few steps to maintain the system and prepare it for the seasonal shift.
Here’s how you can get your air conditioner ready for winter and make the most of its heating capabilities:
1. Switch the System to Heating Mode
The first step in preparing for winter is to make sure your air conditioner is set to heating mode. Most modern air conditioners are reverse cycle systems, meaning they can both cool and heat your home. When set to heating mode, the system works by extracting heat from the outside air (even in winter) and bringing it inside to warm your home.
Check your control panel or remote control to ensure the system is on heating mode, and set it to your desired temperature. This simple switch ensures you’re ready to start using your AC for heating as soon as the temperatures start to drop.
2. Clean or Replace Air Filters
Whether you’re using your air conditioner for cooling or heating, clean filters are essential for proper airflow and energy efficiency. Over time, dust and debris can accumulate in the filters, reducing the system’s effectiveness and making it work harder to maintain your desired temperature.
Before winter sets in, clean or replace your air filters to ensure your system runs efficiently. If you have reusable filters, wash them with water. If your system uses disposable filters, replace them with new ones. Clean filters will help improve indoor air quality and ensure your air conditioner heats your home effectively.
3. Clear Debris Around the Outdoor Unit
Even though you’ll primarily be using the heating function, the outdoor unit of your air conditioner still plays a crucial role in the process. The outdoor unit extracts heat from the air outside and transfers it indoors. To ensure it can operate properly, you’ll need to clear away any debris, dirt, leaves, or branches that may have accumulated around the unit.
Give the outdoor unit some breathing space by making a clearing around it. This ensures proper airflow and helps the system heat your home effectively, even during colder months.
4. Test the Heating Function Early
Don’t wait until the first cold snap to test your air conditioner’s heating function. Turn on the system early to ensure it’s working properly and delivering consistent warmth. Let it run for a little while and check for any issues, such as weak airflow, strange noises, or uneven heating.
By testing the system early, you’ll have the opportunity to address any problems before the weather gets too cold, ensuring your home stays comfortable all winter long.
5. Schedule a Professional Service
While there are several maintenance tasks you can do yourself, scheduling a professional service before winter is always a smart move. A professional technician can thoroughly inspect your system and ensure that all components are in good working condition for heating.
A professional inspection helps prevent breakdowns when you need your air conditioner the most, ensuring reliable and efficient heating throughout the winter.
Why Preparing Your Air Conditioner for Winter is Important
By taking the time to prepare your air conditioner system for winter, you’ll ensure it operates efficiently and reliably in heating mode. The benefits include:
Improved Comfort: A well-maintained system will heat your home more effectively, keeping you and your family warm during even the coldest days.
Energy Efficiency: Proper maintenance reduces the workload on your system, helping it operate more efficiently and lowering your energy costs.
Extended Lifespan: Regular maintenance prevents unnecessary wear and tear, extending the life of your air conditioning system and reducing the likelihood of costly repairs.
Determining what temperature to set your air conditioner in winter in Australia is a balance between comfort and efficiency. By setting your air conditioner to a range between 18oC and 22oC, you can enjoy a warm and cosy home without overburdening your energy budget.
For more tips on optimising your home’s heating and cooling, contact our experts for personalised advice. Stay warm and energy-efficient this winter!
Stay Warm This Winter with Carrick Air Conditioning
At Carrick Air Conditioning, we specialise in keeping your home comfortable year-round. Whether it’s cooling in the summer or heating in the winter, our team of experienced technicians are here to help. From professional services to addressing any issues with your system, we’ve got you covered.
Ready to prepare your air conditioner for winter heating mode? Contact Carrick Air Conditioning today to schedule your service and ensure your system is ready for the season ahead!