Winter Conditions Causing Damage to Commercial Air Conditioning

As a commercial air conditioning specialist, A.S Cooling Ltd is keenly aware that the shift from the cooling demands of summer to the freezing temperatures of a British winter poses a significant threat to commercial HVAC systems.

While many business owners turn their focus to heating during the colder months, neglecting the welfare of the outdoor air conditioning condenser units can lead to expensive damage, decreased efficiency, and unexpected breakdowns when the weather finally warms up.

Proactive preparation and maintenance are essential for safeguarding your investment and ensuring continuous climate control.

The primary culprits of winter-related air conditioning damage are ice and snow. Although modern commercial units are designed to withstand the elements, persistent accumulation and freezing conditions create several critical vulnerabilities.

Firstly, ice formation can wreak havoc on internal components. Water ingress from melting snow can freeze inside the unit, expanding and causing cracks in crucial parts such as the refrigerant coils and lines. This can lead to costly refrigerant leaks, which compromise the entire system's ability to operate efficiently, whether in heating or cooling mode. Furthermore, heavy ice and snow accumulation on top of the condenser unit can place undue strain on the fan blades and motor, potentially bending the fins or causing a complete fan motor failure.

Secondly, physical obstruction is a major concern. Snow piled up against the outdoor unit's casing severely restricts airflow across the heat exchanger. This blockage forces the system to work much harder to achieve its set temperature, resulting in increased energy consumption and accelerated wear and tear on the compressor. Overworking the compressor can dramatically shorten its lifespan, often necessitating a complete and costly replacement of the component or even the entire unit.

Finally, the combination of moisture and low temperatures greatly increases the risk of rust and corrosion. When standing water from melted snow comes into contact with the unit's metal components, especially electrical connections, it can lead to structural deterioration and electrical faults. A proactive approach is the only way to mitigate these risks.

Protecting Your Investment: Installation, Repairs, and Inspections

At A.S Cooling Ltd, we emphasise a three-pronged strategy to combat winter damage: Installation, Repairs, and Inspections.

For new installations, strategic unit elevation and positioning are vital. Placing the outdoor unit on a solid, raised pad or frame prevents it from becoming buried in snowdrifts and ensures proper drainage.

For existing systems, should you notice tell-tale signs of damage—such as unusual noises, a reduction in heating performance, or visible ice accumulation that the unit's defrost cycle cannot manage—prompt repairs are essential. Ignoring minor issues over the winter can quickly escalate into a catastrophic failure. Our qualified engineers can quickly diagnose issues, from repairing refrigerant leaks to replacing damaged electrical components, using only high-quality, manufacturer-approved parts.

Crucially, we advocate for pre-season inspections and maintenance. A comprehensive winter health check by A.S Cooling Ltd involves clearing debris, checking electrical connections for corrosion, inspecting refrigerant levels, and ensuring all components are secured and functioning correctly before the harshest weather sets in. This preventative approach is not only more cost-effective than emergency repairs but also ensures your commercial space remains operational, efficient, and comfortable all year round.

Don't wait for a spring breakdown to discover winter's toll on your commercial air conditioning.

Would you like to schedule a winter inspection or discuss repairs/maintenance for your commercial air conditioning system?