Don’t Ignore Your AC Just Because It’s Not Summer
Your air conditioner may sit unused during winter, but that doesn’t mean it should be forgotten. Off-season AC care is a simple yet essential part of HVAC maintenance—helping to protect your investment, prevent damage, and ensure a smooth start-up when warm weather returns.
In this guide, we walk through the key steps homeowners in Rancho Cucamonga can take during fall and winter to protect their outdoor AC unit or heat pump. Whether your system is fully idle or you rely on a heat pump for year-round comfort, these best practices will help keep your equipment clean, dry, and running efficiently.
Why Off-Season AC Care Matters
Even in Southern California’s mild winters, AC systems are exposed to:
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Dust, leaves, and wind-blown debris
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Occasional rain or frost, which can rust exposed metal
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Animal nesting or insects in or around the condenser
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Power surges or moisture-related damage during storms
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Long periods of inactivity that contribute to wear
A few minutes of seasonal prep can help you avoid premature breakdowns or expensive repairs next cooling season.
Step-by-Step Guide to Off-Season AC Maintenance
Whether you have a central air conditioner or a heat pump, use the following checklist to ensure winter isn’t damaging your cooling system.
1. Shut Off the Power to the Outdoor Unit
Turning off the power ensures your AC doesn’t accidentally turn on during a warm winter day, which could draw in moisture or freeze internal components.
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Locate the electrical disconnect box near the condenser unit
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Open the box and flip the switch to “off”
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Close the cover securely to keep out weather
Note: This only applies to air conditioners. If you have a heat pump, skip this step since it operates year-round.
2. Clean the Outdoor Condenser Unit
Dirt, leaves, and other debris can block airflow and trap moisture, leading to corrosion or pests.
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Use a garden hose to gently rinse coils and fins
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Remove leaves, twigs, mulch, or grass from the base
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Check for signs of animal nesting or insect activity
Avoid using pressure washers or sharp tools, which can bend the delicate fins or damage the housing.
3. Decide Whether to Cover the Unit
Covering your air conditioner in winter is debated—but in dry climates like Rancho Cucamonga, it can be beneficial if done correctly.
When to Use a Cover:
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If your yard is exposed to high winds or frequent dust
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If your unit is beneath trees that drop sap, leaves, or seeds
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If you’re protecting from pests or rodents
Tips for Covering:
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Use a breathable, weather-resistant cover
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Cover only the top 6–12 inches, not the full sides
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Avoid plastic tarps, which trap moisture
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Leave vents exposed for airflow
Consumer Reports: Should You Cover Your AC?
If in doubt, ask your HVAC professional for recommendations specific to your unit model and yard conditions.
4. Inspect the Surrounding Area
After cleaning, take a few minutes to inspect the area around your unit.
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Trim back bushes, vines, or tall grass
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Ensure there’s at least 2–3 feet of clearance on all sides
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Check that the unit is level and that the pad is not sinking or shifting
Settling can strain refrigerant lines or misalign internal components, leading to inefficiencies or noise.
5. Keep the Coils Dry
In damp winters, standing water inside the unit can lead to rust or freeze damage.
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If your unit tends to collect water, consider placing a plywood board over the top to shield against rain
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Make sure drainage is not blocked beneath or around the base
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Never cover vents or trap moisture inside
6. Check for Animal Intrusion
Insects, rodents, and birds sometimes seek warmth or shelter inside AC units.
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Look for chewed wires, nests, or droppings
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Use rodent-proof mesh over exposed vents or holes (but not over coils or fans)
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Avoid placing bird feeders or trash bins nearby
7. Don’t Forget the Indoor Components
Your indoor evaporator coil and blower motor should also be maintained during the off-season:
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Replace or clean your air filter
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Make sure supply and return vents are unobstructed
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Check your thermostat settings and schedule
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Schedule a post-season tune-up if you didn’t do one in fall
8. Special Note: If You Have a Heat Pump
Unlike standard AC units, heat pumps run year-round—providing both cooling in summer and heating in winter.
For heat pumps:
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Do not shut off power to the outdoor unit
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Keep the unit clean and clear of debris
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Check defrost settings or performance if ice forms
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Schedule a biannual professional checkup—one in spring and one in fall
ENERGY STAR Seasonal HVAC Guide
9. Schedule Preventive Maintenance (Optional but Recommended)
Even in the off-season, it’s wise to have a licensed HVAC technician inspect your system if:
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You noticed performance issues in the summer
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Your unit is 10+ years old
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You’ve had pests, yard work, or storm debris near your condenser
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You want to catch problems before spring startup
FAQs: Winter AC Maintenance for Homeowners
Should I cover my AC unit during winter?
It depends on your climate and location. In Rancho Cucamonga, a top-only breathable cover may protect from leaves and dust, but full covers can trap moisture if used improperly.
Can I just shut off my thermostat?
Turning off your thermostat stops indoor operation, but you should also shut off outdoor power to prevent accidental starts during mild winter days.
What happens if I skip winter AC care?
You may experience issues like rust, electrical corrosion, animal nesting, or slow startup in spring.
Is winter a good time to replace an old AC?
Yes. HVAC companies often have more availability and off-season discounts, and you’ll be ready before the heat returns.
Should I run my AC occasionally in winter?
No. If you have a standard AC, keep it powered off. If you have a heat pump, it will run automatically when needed for heating.
Final Thought: A Little Off-Season Effort Pays Off in the Long Run
Winter might be a low-usage period for your air conditioner, but it’s not the time to ignore it. With just a few simple steps, you can protect your equipment, reduce repair costs, and extend the lifespan of your HVAC system.
Need help with winter HVAC prep? Contact RC Air Conditioning in Rancho Cucamonga, CA, for professional off-season maintenance and peace of mind.
Visit rc-airconditioning.com to schedule your off-season service.