How Do I Keep Leaves from Getting in My Outdoor A/C Unit?

The outdoor unit of your air conditioner contains the compressor, used to generate cooler air in the warm months. Occasionally leaves, grass, and other debris are either sucked into the unit or blown in. The accumulated debris can significantly reduce the efficiency of your air conditioning unit and dramatically raise your utility bills. However, there are few steps you can take to ensure the leaves remain outside of your air conditioning unit. Not only will it be cost effective, but also it will just take a few moments of your time. With proper preparation for the winter months, and again in the summer, the lifespan of your unit can be greatly enhanced. Using a scheduled routine maintenance program, you can avoid these problems.

Preparing the AC for Winter

Once your conditioning unit is no longer in operation because the weather has turned colder, you can turn the power off. Based on the style and shape of your unit, you can sweep out the interior of the air conditioner by opening a removing the side panel. Sweep out all of the loose debris and leaves from its interior. Rake around the air-conditioning unit and remove all leaves and debris within at least 2 feet from the unit’s base.

An Air Conditioner Cover

Now that the interior of the unit has been cleaned out, you can place an air-conditioner cover over the entire unit and keep it there during the off-season. The cover will eliminate any additional debris or blowing leaves from collecting inside the unit during the colder months of fall and winter. The winter cover will protect the unit against leaves, dust and dirt, and can eliminate rust, which over time will prolong the life of the air-conditioning unit.

Preparing the AC for Warmer Months

Before you turn your AC unit on for the warmer months, you need to remove the cover you placed there to eliminate the buildup of debris and leaves within its interior. This is an option that works well in climate regions where the temperatures fall enough to shut the unit off through the colder months.

A Year-Round Exterior Filter

Manufacturers make a wraparound filter for the air conditioner as a way to eliminate any leaves or debris from falling into its interior. Additionally, this inexpensive cover will reduce the amount of allergens, dirt and dust that build up within the blades of the exchanger on the outside unit of your air conditioner.

With an annual maintenance program by licensed HVAC contractor you can keep your heating and cooling system operating properly.