Myth or Truth: Will Running an Air Conditioner in Cold Weather Damage It?
Air conditioning can be found almost everywhere, and homeowners will often run their units more during the summer months; however, they see less use in the winter. There are, however, some instances where you want to use your air-con during the winter months. For example, you might want to test the unit, show a buyer how it works if you are planning on moving, or perform a few simple repairs. You may have been told that running the AC in cold weather is not recommended, but is that true, or is it a myth that refuses to die?
Will Running AC in Cold Weather Damage It?
It’s true that using an air conditioner in the cold weather is not a good idea. As they come with condensing units that were not designed to be used in cold weather. The units contain oil used to lubricate the compressor, a heavy grade type that works best in warm conditions. When the weather starts to get cold, the oil will become thicker and does not lubricate the compressor as it should.
If AC compressors used a lighter grade of oil, then they could be used in the winter; however, you would then be facing the opposite problem. In the summer, the oil heats up to the point that it doesn’t provide sufficient lubrication, and the compressor is at greater risk of damage. Most people don’t want to cool their homes, especially when it is already too cold outside, so it makes more sense for the HVAC manufacturers to use summer-weight oils. Another issue with using air conditioners in the winter is that condensation on the cooling coil could very well freeze and damage the unit.
What Temperature is Too Cold?
HVAC manufacturers recommend that users not operate their units for prolonged periods if the temperature dips below 65 degrees Fahrenheit. If you have to test your unit, you should wait until the temperature is above 60 degrees Fahrenheit for a minimum of 3 days beforehand.
For information pertaining to the air conditioning services and products Wrich Air Cooling Heating has to offer, please do not hesitate to dial this number (702) 233-1636 now; we are based in the Las Vegas, NV area.
