The outdoor unit of your HVAC system is often exposed to some pretty harsh elements. While they can withstand harsh weather, there are a few things that you can do to keep your system protected.

Shade Your Unit

If your unit is in direct sunlight, it will make it work harder to cool your home. Try to get the unit placed in the shadiest part of your home. The northern side of your home is often the most popular. If you cannot place your unit in the shade, consider planting some shade bushes or trees near the unit. This will offer some protection from the sunlight.

Make Sure There Is Enough Room

To protect your system from the weather, you will want to make sure that it has some space. If the unit is between fencing or the house, this can lead to damage if a storm comes up. You will also want to ensure that there is enough room for an HVAC professional to service your unit.

Trim Your Plants

Many people will plant bushes or hedges to blend their unit in or provide shade for the unit. During a storm, or winter months, these plants can cause damage to the unit if they break. Keeping them trim, and away from the unit will help to protect it. You should also use gravel around the outside of the unit to keep weeds from growing up inside the unit. Weeds may cause damage if they grow up against or inside the unit.

Be Careful When Mowing

Besides protecting your system from the elements, you also need to protect it when mowing. When you are mowing around the unit, make sure that you do not send mud, debris, or grass up against the unit. You will also want to take care not to sling rocks or gravel into the unit.

Winter Elements Protection

In the winter, you will want to watch for dripping water, snow, and ice. You can get an HVAC cover that will help to protect your unit in the winter. Make sure that it is weather approved, and breathable. You can also install an awning that comes over the unit for extra protection from the weather.

Spring and Summer Weather

During the spring and summer months, you need to protect your system from sun and flooding. If you live in an area that is prone to flooding, ensure that you have an HVAC professional install your unit on a slab.

Routine Maintenance

To further protect your outdoor unit from the elements, have a technician come out twice a year. During this time, they can inspect and clean the unit. This will increase the longevity of the unit and help to ensure that you are not surprised by failures.

Call Us Today

At Service Express Heating and Cooling, we can help protect your system from the elements. If you want to ensure that your unit is well protected, please give us a call today. Our team of HVAC professionals will inspect your HVAC system. We can also instruct you on how to best care for the system.