When the Las Vegas summer heat fades and cooler air settles in, most homeowners stop thinking about their air conditioner. But even though you won’t be running your AC during winter, it still needs care before the colder months arrive. Preparing your air conditioner for winter helps extend its lifespan, prevents costly repairs, and ensures it’s ready to perform efficiently once temperatures rise again.
Below, we’ll walk you through the right way to prepare your AC unit for winter — including what to cover, what not to do, and when professional servicing makes sense.
Why Preparing Your Air Conditioner for Winter Matters
Even in the desert climate of Las Vegas and Pahrump, the winter season brings dust storms, cold nights, and occasional rain. These elements can damage your outdoor unit if it’s not properly maintained.
Neglecting winter prep can lead to:
- Corrosion on coils and metal parts
- Clogged drains or frozen water in lines
- Debris buildup that restricts airflow
- Shortened lifespan of the compressor and fan motor
A few simple steps now can help you avoid those expensive springtime surprises later.
1. Turn Off Power to the AC Unit
Before doing anything else, switch off the power to your air conditioner from the electrical disconnect box (usually located near the outdoor condenser). This step prevents the system from accidentally turning on during a warm spell — something that could pull in cold moisture and cause internal damage.
Once the power is off, double-check that the unit doesn’t start automatically when you adjust your thermostat.
2. Clean Around the Outdoor Unit
Over the summer, leaves, dust, and debris tend to collect around the condenser. Use a soft brush or vacuum with a hose attachment to remove debris from the coils and fins. Then, clear at least two feet of space around the entire unit by trimming back plants, removing branches, and sweeping away dirt or rocks.
This ensures proper ventilation and prevents moisture from getting trapped against the housing during the winter. If you’re unsure how to do this safely, here’s a quick guide on how to clean your outdoor AC unit.
3. Inspect and Tighten Components
Before covering or insulating the unit, do a quick visual check:
- Are there any loose bolts, screws, or fan blades?
- Do you notice rust, corrosion, or frayed wires?
- Are the refrigerant lines properly insulated?
If you see any damage, it’s better to have a technician look at it before winter — small issues now can turn into big repairs by spring.
4. Should You Cover Your Air Conditioner in Winter?
This question confuses a lot of homeowners. Some people wrap their unit in plastic, while others leave it uncovered all year. The truth lies in between.
You should protect your unit, but avoid sealing it completely. A full plastic cover traps moisture inside, which can cause rust or mold growth. Instead, use a breathable AC cover or a piece of waterproof material that shields the top only. This keeps leaves, dirt, and snow out while allowing airflow to prevent condensation.
If you live near dusty or windy areas of Las Vegas or Pahrump, a partial cover is ideal. Just make sure it’s tied down securely so it doesn’t blow off during a storm. For a full analysis of when covering makes sense (and when it doesn’t), see our guide on Should You Cover Your Air Conditioner in the Winter.
5. Add Insulation to Exposed Pipes
The refrigerant lines that run between your indoor and outdoor units can lose efficiency in cold weather if not insulated properly.
Wrap the exposed sections with foam pipe insulation to prevent cracking or freezing. You can find inexpensive insulation sleeves at any home improvement store — just cut to length and secure with zip ties or tape.
6. Keep the Area Dry and Pest-Free
Winter in the desert may not bring heavy snow, but pests still look for warm spots to nest. Check around the base of your AC for signs of insects, rodents, or birds.
Avoid stacking boxes, firewood, or tools near the unit — these create hiding spots and can restrict airflow.
If your area tends to flood or collect standing water, elevate the unit slightly or create a small drainage path to keep the base dry. For example, failing to prepare your system can lead to common HVAC problems during the winter — from frozen coils to airflow restrictions.
7. Schedule a Professional Inspection Before Winter
Even though you’re not running your AC in the winter, it’s smart to have a technician inspect it before shutting it down for the season.
A professional HVAC inspection ensures:
- All components are clean and working properly.
- Electrical connections are secure.
- Refrigerant levels are normal.
- The system is ready to handle the next cooling season.
This preventive step can save you hundreds in repair costs later — especially if the technician spots wear or electrical issues early. You can read more about what an HVAC tech checks during a tune-up to know what to expect during a service call.
8. Check Your Thermostat Settings
Finally, switch your thermostat from “Cool” to “Off” and adjust your home’s heating schedule if you have a combined HVAC system. This ensures your AC doesn’t accidentally start during a mild winter day and prevents unnecessary strain on the compressor.
Key Takeaways
- Turn off power before cleaning or covering your AC.
- Remove debris and keep the area around your unit clear.
- Use a breathable cover — not a full plastic wrap.
- Insulate refrigerant lines to prevent cracking.
- Have your system inspected by an HVAC professional.
By following these steps, homeowners in Las Vegas and Pahrump can protect their AC units all winter long and ensure they’re ready for the summer heat ahead.
FAQ: Preparing Your Air Conditioner for Winter
Q1. Should I cover my central air conditioner in winter?
Yes, but use a breathable or top-only cover. Never seal it completely, as trapped moisture can cause rust and mold.
Q2. Can I leave my AC on during winter?
No. Always shut off the power to prevent accidental starts when temperatures drop.
Q3. How often should I service my AC?
Ideally, schedule maintenance twice a year — once before summer and once before winter — to keep it in top shape.
