5 BIGGEST Winter HVAC Mistakes Homeowners Don't Know!

[@NewHVACGuide]

There have been many opinions in the comments on a cover for your air conditioner. You can buy one here: amzn.to/4gFkrNH

[@lindaadams3622]

@@NewHVACGuide thank you!

[@JohnCap523]

Has not been recommended for years. Modern condensers are designed for the weather. All a cover does is trap moisture inside AND give comfort to mice, who love to gnaw on wires.

[@rjg1173]

I’ve covered my outside condenser for 18 years during the winter specifically made for my unit with several inches of space on the bottom for air flow….my ac unit looks and runs like new

[@rupe53]

5 minutes of covering the top to keep out snow / ice / leaves saves a world of cleaning every year and makes the unit last longer. I have been using a piece of plywood with a weight for 15 years and my stuff looks like new as well, and because the sides are open it's also dry inside.

[@gpenrod5221]

I've been indirectly involved with HVAC systems for years and I have never heard of an AC compressor that needs to cycle anything in the winter time. To me there are more benefits to covering it in the winter time to keep it looking good, paint in good condition, not sun baked which will make it last and look better longer. If the units to cycle, why do most of them have a shut off switch installed on them right next to the unit? Yes, I remove power and cover mine up in the winter time. Except I haven't bought covers for my new house yet to do that. I gotta get my rear in gear with it.

[@rupe53]

@@gpenrod5221 the "service switch" near the unit is a code requirement. My point of only covering the top is so you don't trap moisture or make it too cozy for small critters. which is especially true if the compressor has a crankcase heater, which is only for use in season on chilly nights. For residential units, just pull the power for the winter. The heater only needs a half hour to do its job.

[@henrykennedy1120]

Lol crankcase heated is in use all the time during ac mode I s purpose is to heat the refrigerant oil up to save life of compressor not for cold nights just put a cover on the top of a ac condensing unit I've been doing HVAC since the 70s

[@rupe53]

@@henrykennedy1120 yes, and also used to keep liquid refrigerant from pooling inside the compressor during the off cycle. There's no need for this parasitic draw in the off season. On top of that, you don't want any accidental starting of the unit while it's covered. Flip the breaker off.

[@cdotmonster]

The problem with "maintenance" is trust. I've had bad interactions with hvac companies trying to sell me on things that aren't a problem

[@stinkyham9050]

As an HVAC mechanic with 24 years experience in Toronto (brutal winters) I've never once covered my AC. I'd also like to point out that packaged rooftop units don't ever get covered for the winter and they're just fine. There's no need to cover your AC, they're design to sit outside.

[@Don.Challenger]

One thing I do for the HVAC (not a 365 heat pump) is put a folded up tarp (cushioning) over some folded cardboard (air channel) on top of the exterior compressor unit, every now and then in winter you hear a thump of snow off the roof or icicles off the eaves which never happens in the cooling season. And I clear snow and slush ice off it when noticed, feeding birds I tour the backyard daily which many people mostly abandon for the winter period.

[@beavis4play]

that is exactly what the company i bought my ac from said.

[@rickbodi5944]

I have an elm tree with small leaves that get inside the unit and end up plugging the drain, so I cover just the top of mine.

[@amandaadler1860]

My HVAC guys said don’t cover it, critters will start living in it if it stays nice and covered, chewing away at wires and components.

[@shawnsimpson1900]

HVAC tech here your not wrong. Its called a sealed unit for a reason.

[@alexisjademcgrantham2119]

I've lived in NJ 56 years, owning the same home for 30. My have guys are here every season maintaining my furnace.

[@JohnCap523]

@@alexisjademcgrantham2119 Gas furnaces don’t require maintenance other than replacing the filter. A priority response service contract is the best option.

[@steveb6371]

I haven’t covered my condenser in 38 years since new. My AC works well year after year. Yes I clean the coils every three years. If you do cover your condenser cover the top only so you retain air circulation.

[@beavis4play]

no offense, but that's kind of "not smart" to be using a 38 yr old unit - the efficiency has to be absolutely terrible.

[@wendy23752]

We put a weatherproof card table over the top of our condenser unit in the winter. It is elevated on cinderblocks so the top does not actually touch the condenser and adequate circulation is maintained. We were told by the installers that we needed to protect the blades and interior from possible damage from heavy falling snow or icicles falling from the gutters, so that is what we do since we live in a very serious snow belt area.

[@phillmckrakin2518]

You don't need to do that. 37 years in the field I have never seen a unit damaged by ice or snow, and I'm in Michigan.

[@acreguy3156]

If you have icicles hanging from the gutters, you have an attic insulation problem. Address that and you won't need to cover the top of AC unit. At any rate, stay warm, Wendy 😉.

[@wendy23752]

@acreguy3156 Yes thank you. We don't often have icicles. Just in extreme weather conditions that we sometimes get with ice storms then rapid melting due to temperature fluctuations!

[@acreguy3156]

@@wendy23752 Got it. Thanks Wendy 👍.

[@dustinpomeroy8817]

From my experience covering the condenser with a sheet of plywood and a couple of bricks is the best way to go if you're gonna have a problem with ice coming off the roof.Alot of the ones ive removed that had been covered with an actual cover made for it ,they usually have critter remnants,nuts,straw,grass,dead critters in the service panel.Criiters get cold too .If you encapsulate the unit you create a warmer space for them too live.

[@cavscout888]

I cover mine, but this is definitely an issue. I use mothballs to keep them out.

[@dustinpomeroy8817]

@cavscout888 So my question to you is what do you do when it rains?do you cover it than?

[@46fd04]

I've covered my AC unit for 32 years. I always shut the power off as well. Never had a rodent issue. In April, I never turn the power back on until the cover is removed.

[@dustinpomeroy8817]

@@46fd04 shutting the power off definitely helps.

[@grantw7946]

I switch off the panel beaker for the AC and cover the unit with the supplied cover. Sometime after first frost.

[@DeereX748]

I built an angled "roof" over my outdoor unit to prevent water (snow and ice) accumulation over the fan. It clears the top of the unit by a minimum of a foot on the front and 2-1/2 feet at the back and overhangs all the way around by 6 inches. Works great, the system never freezes up in winter

[@staudtj1]

I did the same thing for my heat pump over the Summer. Now in Michigan Winters, the unit isn't sucking snow into itself and freezing up quickly.

[@phillmckrakin2518]

If it is a top discharge unit, congratulations you just ruined the efficiency. If you had read the manual that came with the unit it requires between 6'-10' clearance above the unit. Unless you remove the blockage in the summer.

[@phillmckrakin2518]

​@@staudtj1 Did you read the manual?

[@staudtj1]

@@phillmckrakin2518 absolutely I read the manual. Play plenty of room has been left on all sides

[@beavis4play]

i think that was a big mistake; but if you like it - ok.

[@sanfordberg4880]

I flip the circuit breaker off for the a/c in the fall. In northern Minnesota in the winter, there is just enough heat generated by components in the a/c to make the a/c unit a great place for mice to settle in. They build nests and chew wires. No electricity, no attraction.

[@allanharding5345]

Great info for HVAC Owners & Users !!! These videos are very useful, as You explain so well in Layman's Language!!!

[@bobwaldron420]

I covered my ac unit th first year. The mice loved it. Thru ate wires allvwinter with total protection. What an expensive mistake that was! Since then, I've covered only the top of the unit & its lasted cover 20 years with yearly preventive maintenance.

[@beavis4play]

i've never covered any of it. company that installed it said i didn't need to. we get a lot of snow and it's been going 14 years with no issue.

[@JD-ft2lr]

Ive been paying for maintenance plan since my system was installed 2008. The same company who installed comes out twice a year. Ive had problems with the so called professionals in the last 4-5 years damaging equip and trying to pass the cost onto me for repair was the most egregious but there are other little things which make me question their "professionalism". I may try to find an independent HVAC guy instead of Dayco (WA state, tri cities).

[@phillmckrakin2518]

There is no need for twice a year service. 37 years in the field. The install and maintenance (basic) is the most important. If you have a competent installer and can change an air filter that's 90% of the battle.

[@Marianayellowbanana]

I do my anual hvac maintenance. I installed a whole house humidifier for the winter and i run a dehumidifier in the summer. I change my filters every month and dont cover my ac unit. I also got my ducts professionally cleaned. I got an A+ 🎉

[@francinecorry633]

We have the HVAC tech from the company that installed our system come out in spring (AC) and fall (Furnace) inspections or any maintenance to make sure the entire systems are in good working condition. No different than say taking your vehicle in for service,like an oil change.

[@bryanbennett972]

Our two units are serviced twice a year. Once in the Spring and Once in Fall.

[@phillmckrakin2518]

Overkill.

[@musicnerd72]

​@@phillmckrakin2518 Preventative maintenance is overkill??? Maybe so in this world of ever growing lack of common sense.

[@phillmckrakin2518]

@@musicnerd72 37 years in the field, yes twice a year Is overkill. Once a year is more than enough. I tell my customers every other year for the first 5 years. I also instruct them on basic maintenance of their equipment unless they are elderly or obviously mechanically incompetent. I assume you are the latter.

[@shawnsimpson1900]

Hey Retired HVAC Tech great video, great points!!! Especially Heat Pumps checking TR had many calls moving so much air customer is so cold. Cause Heat Pumps are Temp Maintainers and run A lot more than Furnaces!!!

[@joemilk6303]

Had a new AC unit put in 4 years ago and my guy told me to cover it in the winter, bought a vinyl cover especially fit for it with vents built in it, I’ve been in the trades for over 35 years and asked hvac guys their opinions on covering AC units and it’s a 50/50 on their opinions, I’m in Chicagoland area and winters can be brutal

[@beavis4play]

right now i've got about 8-10 inches of snow siting on mine - not covered and never has been. it's 12 years old and has been running fine. putting a cover on it promotes mice taking an interest in it for a winter home...and nothing more.

[@samuelalonso22]

Yes I've been covering my condensers much much longer than you've been alive . Zero problems and zero crap to clean

[@donjuan7428]

I covered my 1st ac unit on top only, it lasted 30 years. I have no gutters, the wooden cover stops the ice sickles from spearing the condenser.

[@mpoulin]

I've lived in my current house for about 11 years. It has an older central air system. I noticed the previous owner had a cover for the outdoor unit, though he took it when he moved. I purchased one and used to cover the outdoor unit every year. Every summer, without fail, that unit wouldn't work and I'd have to call in a technician. At least one of those years there was rodent damage, which kind of makes sense, since you're creating a weather free enclosure perfect for them. 4 or 5 years ago I stopped covering it and haven't had an issue since. Knock on wood...

[@cavscout888]

What did the techs say the issue was?? Big issue with your story there...

[@dustinpomeroy8817]

Did you not read the whole thing,why are you confused?​@@cavscout888

[@sweetrocks85]

Original AC unit to my house is 38 yrs old! I've been here 25 of those I've used full cover during cold, snowy MN winters. The past few yrs I just coverd the top. Never had a problem with it. Replaced furnace with a new high efficiency 13 yrs ago. Only had it looked at once since then for routine maintenence about 7 yrs ago. They said it still looked almost new. Yearly inspection is is big waste of $$$. Every 5 yrs? Maybe.

[@SuperMagnumguy]

I have covered my A/C for 35 years ( my latest A/C is six years old ) we have heavy snow to times, my fan blade is protected from the snow. My neighbour was told by her A/C installer not to cover hers….She is on her third fan blades due to snow weight bending one or two of the blades and causing it to be out of balance. Never had a mouse problem either and we live in the countryside.

[@donnaallgaier-lamberti3933]

The only times I covered my a./c unit (thinking that it was best for my unit) mice took over and made their nests in my outdoor a/c unit. The would chew the wires and I would end up having repairs every spring. My a/c repairman/electrician told me I was better off to not cover my unit. Instead I have my unit serviced every spring before start-up. And last year I had the exterior piping/tubing and electrical parts that attached to the garage all replaced. It was a $800.00 bill but I felt it was important (along with my furnace and water heater.) I spent almost $15,000 on my furnace and water heater in 2021 and I want to protect them and make them last as longer as possible. This is like keeping the oil changed and filter changed in my vehicle

[@jeffbarron5500]

Mice can't go thru anything smaller than a dime, so any ac tech worth anything would of made you a simple wire cage. But you go ahead and waste your coin, LOL

[@phillmckrakin2518]

​@@jeffbarron5500 that's the dumbest comment in here! The drain holes in the bottom are bigger than a dime. I have seen rats get smoked climbing into outdoor ac condensers!

[@barbaramccarney1445]

I’m glad you just came across my feed, I found this very interesting and I subscribed! Thanks!

[@NewHVACGuide]

Thank you!

[@craigp3160]

Humidity is important but at the same time having a humidifier can add too much humidity which can in turn cause the windows to sweat (condensation) and drip which can damage the window sill (especially single pane windows) as well as doing the same for the walls which can cause mold in the walls, depending on how much humidity there is in the air and the temperature of the walls.

[@aaronfagerstrom34]

They can be adjusted. Ffs.

[@craigp3160]

No kidding? You must be the smartest person alive. Ffs

[@dustinpomeroy8817]

You must be the second​@@craigp3160

[@seameology]

I live in Minnesota. It doesn't run in the winter at all. Therefore, I cover it. You have to switch from AC to heating at the thermostat. It's -10 right now. AC won't be coming on any time soon.

[@stevekraft4241]

What about turning the power off on the AC unit in the winter?

[@babaoreally8220]

Understand if you have a heat pump or not.They look just like an air conditioner,but work year round.I shut the power down on my AC in the fall and cover it to prevent leaves and snow from getting down in there.That way if your thermostat accidentally calls for cooling,nothing will operate in the AC but the relay contacts.

[@jamespopp6324]

great job. very thorough. thank you

[@jonkirkwood469]

I pull the fuses for the condenser; then, cover it for winter. It's only AC. I have a furnace for heat.

[@phillmckrakin2518]

Why do you pull the fuses and cover it? Not necessary.

[@markk3652]

​@@phillmckrakin2518sometimes, with these newer thermostats, someone with poor eyesight can switch it from heat to cool by mistake. Shut off the breaker or pull the fuse so the compressor and fan don't start up on a frigid day. The compressor is not made to run in polar temperatures.

[@tony-ce7qp]

my thoughts....you do good for your viewers NO DOUBT!

[@JamesHarris-rl3jh]

Excellent! Video, I Appreciate the information. Thanks ! 👍

[@liorap5636]

I wish you had been clearer about the humidity. A dry house feels colder than a humidified house. Growing up in the South, I never heard of an April Aire but now I can’t live without it after buying a house that had one installed. (lil story: It wasn’t working for a while and I thought it was unnecessary, well, our furniture started breaking and cracking! I got the furniture fixed, and the april aire too.)

[@artistjjebsen]

Many will disagree with this comment but signing up for routine service agreements is like taking your car to a mechanic when there’s no need to. You don’t have a plumber or electrician routinely service your pipes and wires respectively. A routine service is an invitation for upselling.

[@meandthemrs7403]

I agree. Maintenance contracts are just a means of steady income for a HVAC company. At very best, it's a "retainer" for quicker service response time.

[@Max-nn6hf]

Once the burner tubes on a gas furnace have a hole burned through them (as in my case) the furnace still works just fine. Heats just fine. The only problem is along with the hot air, you are now blowing carbon monoxide throughout the home. This makes for a really long winters night. As in you may never wake up.

[@keithwilmes4946]

@@Max-nn6hfget A carbon monoxide detector

[@meandthemrs7403]

@@Max-nn6hf Yes. Our exchanger (think that's what it's called) had bad internal rust a few years ago. It was replaced and we bought a carbon monoxide detector.

[@mjbvideo]

How would you feel if the next plane you fly on didn't have routine inspections & maintenance?

[@mnmike6884]

Coved my A/Cs with a form fitted canvas covers since 1979. On my 2nd condenser unit now. Never had an issue. Not bad for 45 years! P.s. first one was provided by my A/C company.

[@dirthog1971]

Twice a year furnace is checked,no one ever cleaned the squirrel cage,never even hear it mentioned,I did it,what a difference ..

[@Justsomedude64]

I just had a new unit installed, one of those combo systems, I have a propane furnace and a heat pump. It uses the heat pump unit the outside temp drops below a certain threshold then the furnace kicks in. They told me not to cover the outside unit, they also said that it has a defrost feature that will automatically kick in when necessary.

[@dustinpomeroy8817]

@@Justsomedude64 a heat pump is different than an a AC and for Godsakes please don't cover your heat pump.

[@chrisgardner4222]

I live in the Pacific Northwest with plenty of snow. My Lennox AC unit is totally shut down every winter with a full cover designed and provided by the Lennox. Thanks, but I think I'll trust Lennox more than your opinion.

[@anthonygiannotti759]

make sure you say thank you Lennox when you need service for housing pest that will destroy your unit . just like today's oil changes at 10,000 miles . they are just dumb and stupid .

[@RaindropsOnLichen]

I have one of those covers for just the top. I’ll look into what kind I have. It’s new so I wanted to keep leaves and snow out of it. I live in the basement of my house and rent out the top. I get way too hot on the basement so I’ll shut the register in my room. I try to keep the others open for airflow. I’m freezing in the summer, which I kinda love but then I don’t acclimate to the heat 😂

[@Jit-np5wl]

How often should I maintenance system?

[@Skanzool]

As far as the cover is concerned, it all depends. I live in Canada and my yard has lots of trees. If you don't cover the AC it will fill with debris, dirt, leaves and maple keys. Very few people will ever bother to remove the cover and clean it out. I had a cover on my Goodman AC for years and I recently replaced (even though it still worked) and it was 43 years old.

[@jeffreyhusack2400]

I had a propane pool heater that I used to cover and it seemed like the more and better I covered it the worse it got with condensation inside small Critters trying to get in there spiders every summer I'd have to have somebody come out and clean it and after that I didn't cover it anymore I thought why make it a Haven for Critters and moisture

[@jeffreyhusack2400]

I built a house a split level in 1985 and we have a heat pump with central air . Compressors were replaced a few times but we never ever ever have any of them serviced and never had a problem with Trane.

[@phillmckrakin2518]

You never have service, but you replaced several compressors? You don't see the problem?

[@musicnerd72]

​@@phillmckrakin2518 Exactly! 🤦

[@jeffreyhusack2400]

@phillmckrakin2518 they have an average lifespan of 10 years and ours were way over that I see what you're saying but they ran Way Beyond their rated lifespan and no service was done between them now that would be different if they didn't make it to their anticipated lifespan but they went beyond that

[@jeffreyhusack2400]

@@phillmckrakin2518 technically there is nothing to really service on them other than to make sure there is no sticks or debris around them. I don't live in a Dusty area so I don't have to worry about it sucking dust in and always make sure that there is no snow around it in the winter time. I don't even have the air handler in the basement serviced other than changing the filter myself once every 8 months as recommended

[@Vibes-no3hi]

There is nothing wrong with closing a vent if its too warm in a room . Doesnt effect the unit

[@tommytomtom5531]

affect

[@Vibes-no3hi]

@ thanks genius

[@tommytomtom5531]

@@Vibes-no3hi I'm dumber than the day I was born. How does it feel to be dumber than me ?

[@Vibes-no3hi]

@@tommytomtom5531 once again good job genius

[@tommytomtom5531]

@@Vibes-no3hi troll

[@rodneylove8023]

I also tell people not to cut off the power with the breaker switch. Often times there is a crankcase heater that needs to be energized all winter long. Much like a garage refrigerator

[@ckelly5141]

I do think that covering your A/C or heat pump at anytime is a mistake, but definitely remove snow or ice as it accumulates.

[@Starship007]

Heatpump mini splits are great even supplementing your central HVAC system. If you want more heat or cold in a certain bedroom or party area vs increasing or decreasing heat/cold whole house.

[@hansgruber650]

Cover your outside unit in winter but not to the bottom, let air flow travel.

[@DennisDuffy-n8g]

I cover the top to keep leaves and crap out and that’s all you need

[@URKlewless]

Don’t use those high rated MERV filters. Just use 8 MERV. Your furnace will thank you

[@johnlieber4687]

If you are going to use merv 8, you might as well use merv 13 3M filtrete 1900 air filter, they publish the restriction values and it has the lowest of anything more than just a simple fiberglass filter.

[@phillmckrakin2518]

If you're duct system is probably sized and you regularly change your filter, any Merv rating is acceptable. Maintenance is the key.

[@fzr1000981]

Bs...high rated filters control dust better and my last system ran 20 years no issues

[@mikeslater6246]

I had a setback thermostat on my heat pump in a house I owned years ago and I liked sleeping in cooler temperatures at night so I would set the thermostat back 4° at night and in the morning I would stage the recovery in such a way as not to turn on the strip heat. What I didn't think about was the fact that setting it back at night during a winter storm didn't allow the unit to run often enough to keep the ice and/or snow from building up on top and blocking the air flow. This pretty much ended the ability of the unit to heat sufficiently and the defrost function would not operate properly to clear that extra buildup. After realizing what was happening I would set my thermostat to "hold temperature" at the normal temperature so it would cycle often enough to keep the system clear during a winter event, then take it off "hold temperature" once the winter event was over.

[@phillmckrakin2518]

I Never sold programmable stats to my heat pump customers for this reason and the catch-up time.

[@mikeslater6246]

@phillmckrakin2518 I programmed it so the catch-up time was happening while I was sleeping. And of course there were savings also in the summertime when I could cut it back during the daytime while I was at work. You just have to plan for that little fact that you and I realized created a problem in the event of an occasional winter storm that could create problems.

[@RedArrow73]

How about covering the outdoor unit DURING THE ICE EVENT only?

[@rogerknight2267]

Any thoughts on the working relationship between a wood heater and a heat pump?

[@RonFraser-fl5yc]

I bought an HVAC unit and it was sold with a cover. I use it. No mice have entered the unit - much easier for a mouse to get into your house. 10 year warranty too.

[@dustinpomeroy8817]

Dude, warranty does not cover mice eating your wires.

[@Todd-bs8og]

How about wet snow bending fan blades and causing imbalance in spring

[@phillmckrakin2518]

How? Are you running it in the winter?

[@Todd-bs8og]

Just a garbage can lid,with a brick on top.

[@nana-bt5db]

cover your AC unit in the winter time

[@FengShuiSusan]

I’ve moved into a 1910 house in the Midwest, have taken up modern baseboards; now there are gaps where walls meet the floors- how important is it to replace the baseboards this winter? Thanks for advice.

[@jimnite4919]

Would you be willing to do a video regarding how dampers work?? I have a split level home with 3 bedrooms & 1 bath on the top level. It’s not a McMansion so there’s not a secondary forced air system on that level, but the wife is under the ASSumption that the dampers needs to be adjusted every season. (I don’t argue), I also don’t know what the hell I’m doing!!! I subscribed and hope you can help. Thanks.

[@dustinpomeroy8817]

Why does she think that?

[@jimnite4919]

@ The answer to that question lies within your question, (She).

[@WarChortle]

was waiting for the "brush snow off or not"

[@itwaslikethatwhenigothere1194]

The first mistake is living where it snows.

[@davepunzel7396]

Yes, shut off the breaker for the AC. He didn't tell you if you are living in cooler weather that there's a heater for the oil in the compressor. So your electric bill is higher for that during the winter. Nothing wrong with at least putting a simple cover over the the top in the fall and winter.

[@phillmckrakin2518]

Lol, you don't know what you're talking about!

[@kevinberta8741]

I love the covering of your AC unit during the winter. The moisture will be driven into the unit and now it won't breathe as well so the moisture is trapped. Leave it uncovered. It is uncovered in the rain, so the snow won't bother it. Just flush it out before the summer season. Also, open the control panel on the side and make sure it is free of mouse nests. Missed that check one spring and a nest caused a fire! had to rewire it and put new capacitors and contactor inside!

[@thomdigiacomo5154]

i can’t understand why many HVAC companies put the humidifier on the return duct . I changed it to the supply duct. Having the humidifier on the return duct is useless since the humidity in the air goes directly into the furnace which dries out the air before sending to the supply. Also many HVAC companies use square footage to determine the size of the tonnage of your AC especially when you have a two zone system. Even though you may have less square feet upstairs heat rises so the AC unit should be larger for the upstairs. Conversely the furnace down suppling the lower floor should be larger than the one suppling the upper floors because heat rises.

[@mikeslater6246]

Your understanding of humidity in a furnace is mistaken. Adding heat with the furnace to the air does not dry out the air. It raises the temperature of the air which lowers the relative humidity reading but the same amount of water still exists in that heated air. The only way to dry out air in an HVAC system is by use of an evaporator which cools the air below the dew point of that air thus condensing the water on the coil and into a tray to be discharged through the condensate drain. Heating the moist air does not dry out anything. It actually helps the air to maintain its total water content. Just remember that relative humidity means the % content of water in the air is relative to the temperature of that air.

[@dustinpomeroy8817]

I do believe your understanding of how things work is a little off

[@mkemm50]

I cover mine every fall,turn the breaker off until April, it keeps it protected from falling ice and Asian bugs and box elder bugs , humidity? I only have relative humidity!

[@jimgardner1306]

I purchased a new AC unit in 2022. I asked the tech installing it if I should cover it and he said yes. Like everything else, if you ask ten different experts, you’ll get ten different answers.

[@paulet3682]

Our new A/C has a domed shape top, Bryant brand. I don't know how we would cover it just at the top. We didn't cover our old A/C except the first couple years. Lasted over 30 yrs.

[@sarahdee374]

What's you opinion on the "higher effectiveness" furnace filters? I have allergies to mold and cig smoke (neighbors) and have invested $18 for one supposedly good to filter those things. Are they 1- a waste of money that don't do much extra and/or 2-do they make a furnace work harder at air intake therefore shortening it's life? or are the $4 just as good? I see both opinions online.

[@JohnnyRecently]

Great video!

[@NewHVACGuide]

Thanks pal 🙂

[@soniagreene6248]

My neighborhood cats are always lounging on top of my Outside unit. Especially in the summer months. Does that cause any problems for unit?

[@dustinpomeroy8817]

Keep them little bastards off of there,the hair and dander will clog up your outside coils and if they are pissing on it it you might as well just set it in fire because urine will definitely put a hole in in it.I replaced 5 condensers this summer that had holes ate in the condenser coils from urine .Ranging from the size of a dime and one German Shepherd had one about the size of a basketball and had ate completely through the unit.

[@mopnola]

Keeps rodents & snakes away. They don't eliminate on units, they dig and bury. Egyptians domesticated cats 10k years ago for vermin control on ships. Dont believe the cat hate. All of wildlife eliminates everywhere inc the mice & snakes in there.

[@janeforever]

We're looking at replacing the ancient heat pump that came with our home. Our biggest concern is how to keep critters, like rats, mice, etc, out because they like to chew on the wiring, etc. We don't want to do anything that impedes functionality but want to put up screeing or something that will keep them out. Got sny suggestions for us country folk?

[@bigshooter5912]

If you’re up north and completely covering your outdoor unit (condenser) with a tarp, you’re creating a home for mice and a potential service call come summer time. Best thing to do is lay a piece of plywood with a brick or 2 on top to keep snow, ice from landing on top of it

[@NewHVACGuide]

I had not considered that possibility

[@bhlife65]

Yes, many of this issues that he’s talking about is true. If you don’t take care of your house issues. It will cost a lot of money in the future. so take the time if you can and do it yourself.

[@phillmckrakin2518]

37 years in the HVAC field, i have never once covered my condenser. By the time the paint dulls, your going to need a new unit. Very good overview of winter time mistakes.

[@bsur5775]

My paint dulled 10 yrs ago on my condensor. It lasted another 12 yrs after that.

[@michaelshoop5616]

What should the humidity be in my house during winter? I have a heat pump and my humidity hangs around 40%. I get static shock frequently touching something metal. Should I run a humidifier to raise the humidity?

[@anthonygiannotti759]

the clothes your wearing or the rug on the floor may very well charging your body and when you touch a wall switch or other items in house, just like lightning the pos.and the neg charges create the sock which is a quick arc of electricity . pumping gas, always touch the metal frame of gas pump housing so you discharge any static which could and does at times ignite the gas tank as you place nozzle in tank .

[@dustinpomeroy8817]

30 is about right

[@lostmagicofdisney]

We've purchased maintenance plans in the past and each time, it's a scam. The company doesn't do anything worth while that I'm not also doing. The real problem is how difficult it is to find a company of integrity that does what it's supposed to do.

[@MyBizOnlu]

I cover it every year for the 42 yrs i have lived here.. i put a tin pan with mothballs under as well, never had mice or any critters. Do same with boat, just air them out for a good week. My condenser has dual shut off one on unit and one in basement, it has never run in winter, thats what the furnace is for.

[@battalion151R]

Have you ever smelled mothballs?

[@MyBizOnlu]

@battalion151R considering I have been using them for years yes, just wont use inside. Ever seen the damage mice and squirrels do to equipment stored in barns. My boat, riding mower, tractor no longer have wiring, seats etc chewed and destroyed. My barn does not house animals. Easy to open the the large doors for a week and air it all out. Cheaper than replacing and repairing. I just do what works for me for over 40 years.

[@anthonygiannotti759]

the a/c capacitor company is AM-RAD, NOT AMD.

[@jolkraeremeark6949]

Speaking of ductwork, how often should ducts be cleaned?

[@NewHVACGuide]

Depends on the home. Ducts connected to floor registers are more often than ceiling registers. Low return, pets, smoker in home can all play a role as well.

[@antoncarroll623]

You should have them cleaned at least every two years.

[@jolkraeremeark6949]

@antoncarroll623 seems excessive. Is this your professional opinion?

[@swamprat69er]

I have a Hunter forced air whole house oil furnace with a Beckett burner. When I bought it 30 years ago it was 85% efficient and as of last year it was still at 85%. It gets serviced every year without fail. The 200 gallon oil tank gets inspected at the same time. The oil tank will need to be replaced next year at which time I will be installing a 500 gallon tank.

[@travisrickard1154]

I like my dads 1993 trane with the metal hood over it metal side panels never been recharged been maintenance maybe twice back then all the carrier and York people said it was junk 😂ask the ones that bought them where they at

[@Chris_In_Texas]

I don't understand why you would cover the outdoor condenser? Why? Its made to be outside! Many have heaters in them, our do, that will run when the temp drops. If you are concerned with now, you can go scoop it off from time to time.

[@savingmoney5604]

How often should your system be maintenanced?

[@dustinpomeroy8817]

Every spring

[@CarreraTrackOntheFloor]

Covering the outdoor ac unit makes a perfect home for mice.

[@Lazcomeforth]

What about those of us who don’t have a furnace but a boiler. What kind of maintenance should we be doing?

[@TM-173]

BLEED RADIATORS

[@musicnerd72]

Call your local HVAC company.

[@dustinpomeroy8817]

Don't fuck with it and call somebody

[@JimwombatLand]

MOST OUTSIDE CONDENSERS HAVE A HEATING UNIT AT THE BOTTOM ...

[@1pcmedic]

Cover your unit in the fall/winter to keep debris out of the condenser, but let the rain in or you create a mouse house where they can nibble on wires in comfort $$$$$$$.

[@scrambler69-xk3kv]

Listening to this guy talk says he has no clue about condenser units in the northern states, and how brutal winters can be.

[@NewHVACGuide]

Doesn’t matter the location. Lookup the operating instructions on some (Not All) of the systems sold today and you’ll see they specifically say to not cover the unit.

[@anthonygiannotti759]

if you have an oil furnace the right sized nozzle and a stack temp along with draft to set it up properly to be very efficient .with each passing year one needs only to change nozzle,oil filter and screen in oil pump . don't forget to clean interior fins removing all accumulated soot yearly . for 39 years, same oil furnace and mine is running perfectly and very cleanly . outdoor condenser on a/c units should be left as installed . covers will only create problems . exception: if water and ice get into unit from roof line or gutters , simply place a piece of plywood with square feet to keep plywood raised off condenser grill so unit can breathe.if your a/c cools very well that's called leave well enough alone. there is no need for yearly contractor to service whats already running great .stop wasting money .a well sealed R22 Freon line needs no service. also check air handler for automatic humidifier tray (if equipped ) keeping it clean , some attic units may have a mini sump pump to expel condensation water . keep this clean and tubing or PVC pipe clean so water never backs up.keep a spare capacitor on hand for condenser if yours poops out with sudden power surges and failures . you can get the exact capacitor at AMD capacitors for 20 bucks . keep 2 spare air filters on hand and log in when you change them based on how dirty they get .if you feel your not capable doing these chores at least you will be able to let who ever does service you know whats going on .

[@Ed-ym4tu]

Joshua, I would like your opinion on this project I'm thinking of. I have a heat pump and in cold weather the refrigerant lines freeze up and heat strips have to run to defrost them. I'm thinking about making a solar sand heater with a heating element and putting that in a metal bucket or barrel and connecting my refrigerant lines to that barrel. Just curious what your thoughts are.

[@vgwinva5669]

I am novice phase looking at a planned 5 year remove/replace on a 28 year old YORK system. NO PLEATED FILTERS -- took me over a year to understand the recommended filters are not applicable for older systems

[@matthewvalentine3549]

Gotta close one to put more air into other rooms. I this bad?

[@dustinpomeroy8817]

You could probably turn your blower speed up a little and see if that helps.

[@URKlewless]

Covering a/c is fine, just flip breaker off if you think your fan may come on….

[@mikerapp8163]

The reason why older cooling only CU’s couldn’t be completely covered was due to the crankcase heater being energized by one leg thru-wire on its contactor. That’s why most manufacturers recommended top cover only to allow any condensation to dissipate.

[@dennismoore1116]

By heat pump heat rise, are you referring to delta T between inlet and outlet temps indoors?

[@NewHVACGuide]

Yes

[@johnwhite2576]

So even with a heat pump we should see a thirty degree rise at all times of heating season?

[@NewHVACGuide]

@@johnwhite2576not necessarily. Inverter systems may fluctuate and even single stage systems can have many variables affecting heat rise. That said, if slowing down the air flow can raise the delta t is possible and needed, many could see better operation. Sensible heat capacity needs to be the focus. Every home and system is different.

[@dawnwoinovick2832]

Thank you

[@NewHVACGuide]

You're welcome

[@bluesdirt6555]

My new old house has ductwork that bangs when it runs ! Expanding and contracting?

[@NewHVACGuide]

Have a pro check static pressures. But it’s usually the sides of the duct pushing out and bouncing back when the blower stops

[@thomassciurba5323]

I had a few loose hangers on the big run in the basement

[@rupe53]

that big bang is called "oil canning" and comes from a large flat area in the duct or the side of the furnace itself when the fan cycles on or off. (change in pressure) Might be restricted air flow so check all registers (fully open?) and clean filters first. If you can locate the exact spot you can also install a brace of bent metal with 3-4 screws to stop the flex.

[@LeftsnRights88]

Check to see if the banging noise is coming from a section of ductwork that wasn't cross broke. It may need to reinforced.

[@user-cz8do7xl8u]

This is like arguing over what color paint is better for performance.

[@Atwater20]

Always cover your A/C and turn it off at the breaker box for the winter.

[@NewHVACGuide]

Not always. Some systems specifically say not to.

[@RaindropsOnLichen]

My furnace and ac has the same breaker

[@paulet3682]

​@@RaindropsOnLichenThat doesn't sound right. I don't think that would pass inspection where I live .