As temperatures dip in American Fork and families switch from cooling to heating, it pays to store your window air conditioner the right way. A careful fall routine keeps dust, moisture, and freezing temps from shortening the unit’s life. If you follow these steps to store an air conditioner for winter, you set yourself up for quieter operation, better air quality, and fewer surprises when summer returns.
1. Remove the Unit Safely and Seal the Opening
Unplug the unit, remove the accordion side panels, and lift with a helper to protect your back and the window frame. Once the AC is out, clean the sill and seal the opening so heated air does not escape all winter. If you feel a draft around the frame, you can replace worn weather stripping to tighten the seal.
Seasonal tip: If the unit must stay in the window, add an insulated cover and review steps to prepare for seasonal changes so heat does not leak around the appliance.
2. Wipe The Exterior And Inspect The Fins
Mix a few drops of mild dish soap into warm water and wipe the cabinet with a soft cloth. Avoid harsh chemicals and direct hose spray through the grille. While you clean, look at the condenser fins. A small fin comb can straighten light bends that restrict airflow. If performance lagged this summer, schedule expert AC maintenance for a coil cleaning and tune-up.
3. Clean The Interior Surfaces And Let Everything Dry
Remove the front grille, slide out the filter, and vacuum dust from the evaporator face and blower wheel with a brush attachment. A light wipe with a vinegar and water solution helps discourage mildew. Let every surface dry fully before storage. Dry storage prevents musty startup smells and supports healthier air, which you can reinforce with indoor air quality upgrades.
4. Replace Or Upgrade The Filter Before Storage
Filters are inexpensive and make a big difference. If yours looks dark or matted, replace it now so the unit is ready for spring. Many homeowners align this task with central system care following a similar rhythm to how often you should change your furnace filter. A clean filter reduces strain on the fan motor and keeps coil surfaces from clogging.
5. Store The AC Upright On A Stable, Dry Platform
Keep the compressor oil where it belongs by storing the unit upright, never on its side or back. Set it on a shelf or pallet to stay off a damp floor and leave a few inches of space around the cabinet for air movement. If your garage stays humid, consider a small dehumidifier. If the unit struggled this year, plan a spring checkup that includes professional AC repair to troubleshoot weak cooling or strange noises.
6. Cover Thoughtfully To Block Dust Without Trapping Moisture
Use a breathable winterizing cover to keep dust off without sealing in moisture. Avoid tight plastic that can trap condensation. If the unit remains in the window, pair an exterior hood with an interior quilted cover to limit infiltration. Homeowners who want better control often explore smart thermostat features that help manage comfort and energy use through winter.
7. Plan Your Spring Setup Now For A Smoother Start
Put a reminder on your calendar for a quick spring test run. A service visit that includes coil cleaning and electrical checks can extend life and lower bills. If the unit is aging, compare replacement cost with alternatives like a ductless mini split in American Fork for zoned cooling and heating. For efficiency basics, review what SEER means for Utah homes. When you are ready to upgrade, consider AC installation in American Fork to match capacity, efficiency, and budget.
Why Careful Winter Storage Pays Off
A clean, dry unit with a fresh filter starts faster, runs quieter, and cools more evenly. That usually means fewer nuisance issues like water dripping from the front panel. If you saw dripping this year, you can spot likely causes by reading why your AC might be leaking water. For rooms that need both heating and cooling, many homeowners simplify comfort with heat pumps rather than juggling space heaters and window units.
When To Call A Pro
DIY cleaning is fine for light dust. Call for service if the unit trips breakers, the fan squeals, the coil ices over, or the system fails to restart after storage. You can try a quick restart by following how to reset an air conditioning unit. If cooling needs have outgrown a window unit, whole-home comfort through heating services in American Fork and scheduled heating maintenance will carry you through winter while you plan for summer.
Ready For Next Season
Store the AC upright, keep it clean and dry, and plan a spring check before the first heat wave. If your home would benefit from higher efficiency or quieter operation, compare a replacement window unit with a right-sized central system or a ductless zone. For a quick refresher on service points, see the major parts of an air conditioner. Many locals also book early because spring tune-ups fill fast.
Call To Schedule
When you want a hand cleaning a window unit, planning a replacement, or tuning up your furnace, schedule with Gunthers Heating, Cooling, and Plumbing. For convenient appointments and fast answers, you can also contact our American Fork team today.
FAQs About Storing Window Air Conditioners
Can I Leave A Window AC Installed All Winter If I Cover It Well?
You can, although removing the unit usually saves energy and reduces moisture risk. If removal is not practical, use an exterior hood plus an interior insulated cover and follow seasonal HVAC steps to avoid heat loss around the frame.
Is It Safe To Store A Window Air Conditioner On Its Side?
No. Always store it upright so compressor oil does not migrate. If the unit was tipped during transport, let it sit upright for several hours before operating. If performance still seems off, schedule AC maintenance.
How Do I Prevent Mildew Or A Musty Smell After Storage?
Dry the unit completely before covering and keep it in a low-humidity space. If your home struggles with moisture, learn why ductwork sweats and how to curb it.
My Unit Trips The Breaker Next Spring. What Should I Try First?
Start with a dedicated circuit and a firm outlet connection, then follow how to reset an air conditioning unit. If the problem persists, book AC repair so a tech can check the capacitor and wiring.
If My Space Needs Both Heating And Cooling, Should I Replace The Window Unit?
Many homeowners move to a ductless system that both heats and cools or plan a central upgrade when the timing is right. Planning early helps, which is why spring tune-ups are so popular.
