How to Winterize Your Portable Air Conditioner

If you want to keep your portable air conditioner working at peak capacity, you’ll need to winterize it before storing it away at the end of summer. It prevents damage to the inner hardware, keeps equipment from getting lost, and extends the operational lifespan of your machine.

Unplug and Store the Power Cord

Turn off the unit and unplug it from the electrical socket. The NewAir AC12200E Portable Air Conditioner has a storage compartment for the power cord behind a removable panel in the back. Wrap up the cord until its compact enough to fit inside and slide it in. If you’re using a different unit, secure the cord with tape, string or a rubber band and set aside.

Break Down the Window Kit

Every portable air conditioner comes with a window kit to vent hot air from the compressor. There are two parts: an extendable hose and a slider kit. Unscrew the hose from the exhaust port in the back and from the front of the sliding kit and fold it down. If you own a NewAir AC12200E Portable Air Conditioner, there’s a special storage space for the hose and remote control on the top of the unit.

Remove the slider kit from the window, take out the screws holding the extendable bolt in place, and retract the bolt into the housing. The window kit’s ready for storage.

Drain the Tank

How to Winterize Your Portable Air Conditioner

Portable air conditioners dehumidify and collect water as they cool. To keep moisture from corroding the fan motor or compressor during winter, you’ll need to drain the water tank. Place a pan or shallow container beneath the drain plug and remove the drain knob and rubber plug to drain the unit. Depending on the size of your container and the amount of water stored in the tank, it may be necessary to empty the container once or twice before the tanks’ completely dry.

Clean the Filters

The filters are located on the back of the unit to catch any dust or dirt before it’s sucked up into the portable air conditioner. Slide them out and clean them using a soft brush or vacuum hose, then rinse them with running water and let them dry before putting them back inside the unit.

Storing Your Portable Air Conditioner

The best place for your portable air conditioner is inside, where it’s protected from the elements. Avoid any areas where temperatures might drop below freezing. Any residual water inside the air conditioner might freeze and cause damage. Closets, under stairs, and basements are good. So are garages, if they’re insulated.

Keep your portable air conditioner away from direct sunlight. Prolonged exposure will discolor the plastic housing and turn it yellow. Store your portable AC in its original box or cover it with a tarp or sheet. Store the slider kit, power cord, and remote nearby, to make sure they don’t get misplaced before spring.