More and more people are using air conditioners not only in summer but also in the fall and winter seasons – as an economical source of supplemental heating. For the device to operate safely, efficiently, and affordably, it is necessary to properly prepare it for heating mode. How do you do this? Below you will find a comprehensive guide that will answer your most important questions about preparing your air conditioning for the heating season.
Why is preparing your air conditioning for the heating season so important?
Many users wonder whether air conditioning is truly suitable for heating and whether it's harmed by low temperatures. Modern inverter units are designed to operate even in outdoor temperatures as low as -30°C, but only if properly maintained. Before the season begins, remember to keep your filters and heat exchangers clean, as dirt can reduce heating efficiency by up to 30% and significantly increase energy consumption.
Users also often ask whether missing inspections can void the warranty. Yes, most manufacturers require inspections at least once, and often twice, a year. Failure to do so may result in the rejection of any warranty claims.
Cleaning and maintenance – the key to efficient operation
Preparing your air conditioning for the heating season begins with a thorough cleaning of the various components. In practice, this means cleaning the filters, disinfecting the indoor unit, and checking the outdoor unit.
Cleaning the filters
This is one of the most common questions users ask: "Do I need to clean the filters if the air conditioning is working normally?" Yes – filters should be cleaned every 2–4 weeks, and absolutely before the heating season. Dust buildup reduces airflow, which automatically forces the unit to work harder, resulting in higher energy consumption and reduced efficiency.
Disinfection of the indoor unit
Although many people believe that air conditioning only cools and doesn't generate moisture in the winter, condensation can still form inside the unit. Therefore, it's worth conducting mold and mildew removal to avoid unpleasant odors and mold growth.
Outdoor unit control
Users often ask if they can heat their home with air conditioning if the unit is placed on a balcony or near the ground. The answer is yes, but they need to make sure the area around the unit is clear of leaves, snow, or a blocked condensation drain. In heating mode, the unit produces significantly more water, so the drain must be clear.
Settings and optimization of operation in heating mode
Before turning on the heating function for the first time in the season, it's worth checking the device's settings. Many users wonder what temperature is most efficient—meaning, what provides maximum comfort at minimal cost. 20–22°C is most often recommended, as higher settings result in higher energy consumption and longer room heating times.
At the same time, it's worth remembering to set the air flow downward, which distributes warm air more quickly throughout the room. Fan speed is also crucial for comfort and efficiency. It should be low or medium, which improves comfort and reduces energy consumption. You can also use a timer or schedule, as air conditioning uses less electricity when maintaining a constant temperature than when it has to raise it from low to high.
A common question is how loud air conditioning is in winter – users often find that the unit is noisier. This is normal: in heating mode, the compressor and defrost cycles operate, which can generate brief noises.
Is it worth performing a technical inspection before the heating season?
Many air conditioning owners wonder whether professional service Is it really necessary, or can it be omitted? If you'll be using your air conditioning system during the heating season, you need to remember to perform system maintenance. If your air conditioning system will be used for both cooling and heating, manufacturers recommend inspecting it twice a year (in spring before the cooling season and in autumn before the heating season).
During the inspection, the technician should verify the air conditioning system's readiness for efficient operation. Therefore, they verify the system's tightness, the refrigerant level, and compressor efficiency. It's also a good idea to check the electrical system, the effectiveness of the condensate drainage system, and the overall technical condition of the system and air conditioners.
This is especially important when the device is to work mainly as heat pump – lack of proper refrigerant level may lead to compressor damage and high repair costs.
