Winter Storage Guide for Portable Air Conditioners
Proper storage techniques for the UK climate to extend your AC's lifespan
As summer ends in the UK, proper storage of your portable air conditioner is crucial for maintaining its performance and extending its lifespan. Follow this comprehensive guide to prepare your unit for winter storage and ensure it's ready for next summer.
Why Proper Storage Matters
Poor storage can lead to mould growth, component corrosion, refrigerant issues, and significantly reduced lifespan. Proper end-of-season care can extend your AC's life from 3-5 years to 8-12 years.
End-of-Season Checklist
Best Time for Storage
In the UK, begin storage preparation in late September when nighttime temperatures consistently drop below 15°C and cooling is no longer needed.
Complete Pre-Storage Checklist
Final Filter Cleaning
Remove, clean, and completely dry all filters before storage
Complete Water Drainage
Drain all water from condensation tank and internal reservoirs
Fan-Only Dry Cycle
Run unit on fan-only mode for 1 hour to dry internal components
Exterior Cleaning
Wipe down outer casing and remove any dirt or debris
Coil Inspection
Check evaporator and condenser coils for damage or excessive dirt
Hose and Window Kit Storage
Clean, dry, and properly store exhaust hose and window sealing kit
Manual and Warranty Documentation
Store manual, warranty information, and purchase receipts with unit
⏱️ Total Time Required
Approximately 1.5-2 hours
2-3 hours (including drying time)
Complete Water Drainage
Critical: Prevent Freeze Damage
Any remaining water can freeze during UK winters, potentially cracking internal components and causing expensive damage. Complete drainage is essential.
Step-by-Step Drainage Process
Initial Shutdown
Turn off and unplug the unit. Wait 30 minutes for internal pressure to equalize.
Manual Tank Drainage
Locate and empty the main condensation tank completely. Check for hidden drain plugs.
Tilt Drainage Method
Carefully tilt the unit slightly backward to drain water from internal reservoirs.
Drain Hose Method
If equipped, connect drain hose and ensure all internal water is expelled.
Verification
Check for any remaining water by gently shaking the unit and listening for sloshing.
Fan-Only Drying Cycle
Why This Step Is Essential:
Even after manual drainage, moisture remains on internal components. The fan-only cycle circulates air to evaporate this residual moisture.
How to Run Drying Cycle:
- 1. Reconnect power but NOT the exhaust hose
- 2. Set unit to "Fan Only" or "Dry" mode
- 3. Run for 60-90 minutes at room temperature
- 4. Ensure good ventilation in the room
- 5. Final shutdown and disconnect all power
⚠️ Special Considerations for UK Climate
- • High humidity (60-80%) means longer drying time needed
- • Consider using a dehumidifier in the storage room
- • Avoid storage in unheated garages or sheds
- • Check unit again after 24 hours for any remaining moisture
Cleaning & Storage Preparation
Unit Cleaning
External Cleaning
- Wipe down casing with damp microfiber cloth
- Clean control panel and display with electronics cleaner
- Remove any debris from air intakes and exhausts
- Polish any stainless steel surfaces
Internal Cleaning
- Deep clean or replace air filters
- Vacuum accessible areas of evaporator coils
- Clean condensation tank with mild antibacterial solution
- Inspect for signs of mould or unusual wear
Accessory Preparation
Exhaust Hose
- Disconnect and thoroughly clean inside and outside
- Check for cracks, tears, or degraded insulation
- Compress gently and store in protective bag
Window Kit
- Clean all window sealing components
- Check foam seals for compression or damage
- Store flat to prevent warping
Remote Control
- Remove batteries to prevent corrosion
- Clean buttons and housing
- Store in protective bag with manual
🧼 Recommended Cleaning Supplies
Basic Cleaning:
- • Microfiber cloths
- • Mild soap solution
- • Vacuum with brush attachment
Deep Cleaning:
- • Electronics cleaner
- • Antibacterial solution
- • Coil cleaning spray
Protection:
- • Plastic storage bags
- • Dust cover or cloth
- • Moisture absorber packets
Proper Storage Techniques
Storage Position & Environment
✅ Correct Storage Position
- • Always store upright - never on side or back
- • Maintain the same orientation as when operating
- • Ensure unit is level and stable
- • Leave space around unit for air circulation
❌ Storage Don'ts
- • Never store on its side - damages compressor
- • Avoid tilting or angling the unit
- • Don't stack items on top of the unit
- • Never store where it could fall or tip over
Environmental Requirements
Temperature Control
- • Ideal: 5°C to 25°C (41°F to 77°F)
- • Avoid freezing temperatures
- • Prevent extreme temperature swings
- • Unheated rooms are acceptable if above freezing
Humidity Control
- • Keep humidity below 60% if possible
- • Use dehumidifier in damp storage areas
- • Ensure good ventilation
- • Consider moisture absorber packets
Storage Location Options
Ideal Storage
- • Climate-controlled spare room
- • Heated basement
- • Insulated loft with heating
- • Heated garage
Acceptable
- • Unheated indoor room (if above freezing)
- • Well-insulated shed with heating
- • Covered outdoor storage (with precautions)
Avoid
- • Unheated garage or shed
- • Direct outdoor exposure
- • Damp basements
- • Areas prone to flooding
🛡️ Protection Tips
Physical Protection:
- • Cover with breathable dust cover
- • Use furniture pads under wheels/feet
- • Keep away from high-traffic areas
- • Store accessories in labeled bags
Environmental Protection:
- • Place moisture absorber packets nearby
- • Ensure good air circulation
- • Check periodically for condensation
- • Keep storage area clean and dry
UK Climate-Specific Storage Tips
Dealing with UK Winter Conditions
High Humidity Challenge
UK winters typically see 70-90% humidity, making mould prevention crucial.
- • Use silica gel packets in storage area
- • Check unit monthly for condensation
- • Ensure storage room has good ventilation
- • Consider a small dehumidifier for storage area
Temperature Fluctuations
UK temperatures can vary dramatically, especially in unheated spaces.
- • Monitor storage area temperature
- • Use insulation if storing in garage/shed
- • Consider portable heater for extreme cold periods
- • Move unit indoors during severe weather warnings
Common UK Storage Problems
Mould Growth
Cause: High humidity + poor ventilation
Solution: Dehumidifier, ventilation, monthly checks
Condensation in Unit
Cause: Temperature changes + moisture
Solution: Moisture absorbers, stable temperature
Corrosion of Components
Cause: Salt air (coastal areas) + moisture
Solution: Indoor storage, protective coating
Rodent/Pest Infiltration
Cause: Seeking warm, dry spaces in winter
Solution: Sealed storage, regular inspection
🌦️ UK Weather Monitoring
Use weather apps to monitor upcoming severe weather and take preventive action for your stored AC unit, especially during cold snaps or storms.
Spring Preparation & First Use
Pre-Season Preparation Timeline
Begin preparation in early May when UK temperatures consistently exceed 20°C. Allow 2-3 days for proper inspection and testing before first use.
Pre-Season Checklist
Inspection & Setup
First Startup Procedure
⚠️ Important First-Use Considerations
If Unit Was Stored Cold:
- • Allow 4-6 hours to reach room temperature
- • Check for condensation inside unit
- • Run fan-only mode first for 30 minutes
- • Monitor for unusual noises or vibrations
Signs to Watch For:
- • Unusual odors (could indicate mould)
- • Reduced cooling efficiency
- • Water leakage or overflow
- • Strange sounds or vibrations
📋 Annual Maintenance Schedule
Use spring startup as an opportunity to establish your annual maintenance routine:
Season Start (May):
- • Complete pre-season inspection
- • Replace consumables (filters, batteries)
- • Test all functions and safety features
Season End (September):
- • Complete storage preparation
- • Document any issues for next year
- • Plan any needed repairs or replacements
Complete Your AC Knowledge
You now know how to store your AC properly. Complete your portable AC expertise with our other comprehensive guides.