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End-of-Season AC Shutdown: Cleaning, Covering, and Storing Equipment Properly
As the summer season wraps up at the Jersey Shore, most homeowners shift their focus from beach days to winter prep. Before you move on completely, don’t forget your air conditioning system. A proper AC shutdown protects your equipment from off-season damage—especially in coastal areas where salt air, sand, and storms can take a toll.
Here’s what we recommend for every shore home before turning off the AC for the season.
Step 1: Clean the Outdoor Unit
Your condenser has been exposed to salt, sand, grass clippings, and debris all summer. Letting that build up over the winter increases the risk of corrosion, clogging, and premature wear.
Checklist:
- Shut off power at the breaker
- Hose off the condenser coils and fan blades
- Clear away leaves, mulch, or debris from around the unit
- Check for visible signs of wear, rust, or damage
If you're not comfortable cleaning the system yourself, schedule a professional cleaning and inspection.
Step 2: Replace or Clean Filters
Before shutting things down, change your air filters one last time. This helps prevent dust buildup inside your home’s ductwork and keeps your indoor air clean when the system kicks back on next spring.
Pro Tip: This is a good time to make a note to stock up on the correct filter sizes for next season.
Step 3: Cover Strategically—But Not Completely
Covering your outdoor unit can help shield it from falling leaves and salt spray, but full tarps can trap moisture and invite mold or rodent problems. Use a purpose-built cover that leaves ventilation at the bottom—or skip it entirely if your unit is located in a sheltered spot.
Avoid wrapping the unit in plastic or trapping condensation against the metal.
Step 4: Inspect Your Thermostat & Shut Down the System
Switch your thermostat to the “off” position. If you use a smart thermostat, this is a good time to update any schedules and ensure it's disconnected from cooling mode.
If you’re not returning to the home until spring, it’s also worth double-checking your power settings and any automatic sensors.
Step 5: Book a Post-Season Inspection
Even if your system ran fine this summer, a post-season inspection can catch early signs of damage before they get worse over the winter. This is especially important for second homes that may sit unoccupied during colder months.
Budd’s Plumbing & HVAC offers seasonal inspections and off-season checks to protect your investment and make sure your equipment is ready to go next year.
Shore-Tested HVAC Service, Year-Round
Coastal homes face extra challenges when it comes to HVAC care. Salt, sand, and storms don’t take the season off—and neither do we. Budd’s Plumbing & HVAC provides expert service for homeowners in Cape May and Atlantic Counties looking to close out summer the right way.
Call 609-465-3759 or request your seasonal service at buddsplumbing.com
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