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Air conditioner is seldom used in winter, only to switch it on heating, if such function is foreseen. The device demands constant care. In order for it to “winterize” and remain as energy efficient without damage and breakdowns, you should carry out a number of preventive measures.
Dry the indoor unit
You can dry the parts of the indoor unit from the accumulated condensate at a certain temperature outdoors (the operating temperature range can be found in the user manual). To do this, turn on the unit for 1-2 hours in cooling mode, and then for the same amount of time – in heating mode. This will allow to thoroughly dry all internal parts from moisture.
If a conditioner has no heating function, you should just switch on a ventilation mode for a longer time.
If the temperature outside the window does not allow using conditioner for cooling, you can switch it on heating or ventilation for 1-3 hours at once.
De-energize the device
The next stage of preparation is to disconnect the device from a network and to take out the batteries from the remote control. It will allow avoiding an accidental switching on of an air conditioner or damage of control boards if voltage changes in mains.
Clean the indoor unit
It is necessary to wipe off dust and other impurities from the inside of the air conditioner. For this purpose a normal damp soft cloth is suitable.
Then you need to remove the cover – pick it up and pull it upwards. Behind it are the strainers, which should also be thoroughly washed. To do this, take them off and rinse them with warm soapy water, rinse and dry them well. If the filter is very dirty, it can be cleaned with a vacuum cleaner beforehand. Some users perform an antibacterial treatment with a special agent.
When you have finished all the work, put the filters back and close the lid.
Install a protective visor for the outdoor unit
The external unit should also be cleaned. Just clean up any dirt and possible debris on the cabinet if you have access to the unit.
It is also better to install a protective visor, but if the unit is high up, you should entrust this to experienced professionals who have all the necessary tools for this.
The visor is installed over the outdoor unit of the air conditioner. This will allow you to protect the device from possible damage due to falling icicles, as well as from the accumulation of large amounts of snow and the formation of ice. Such devices are made of durable materials, usually metal.
Install a winter kit
If you plan to use an air conditioner for cooling in winter, equip it with a winter set. After all, the range of working temperature of outside air at the conditioner is limited. For non-inverter models, this value is from +14 °Ñ up to +43 °Ñ, and for the inverter – from -15 °Ñ up to +43 °Ñ.
Keep in mind that you can not install the winter set yourself without specialized skills and abilities. It is better to use the services of professionals. Remember that not all inverter split systems can be installed in winter sets.
The winter set includes heating of the compressor crankcase, heating of the condensate drain if the condensate is taken outward, and a regulator of the condenser blower fan rotation speed. Thanks to these devices condensate will not freeze in the drainpipe, the oil will not thicken and freon will not overcool. In this case, the air conditioner will work steadily and safely.
Keep in mind that the winter kit only provides cooling operation and heating is only available within the temperature limits set by the manufacturer.
