Looking forward to turning on your air conditioner after winter? There are things you need to check first to ensure your system is ready and you get the most out of it.
Things to Do Before Turning On Your AC After Winter
- Check the thermostat for any signs of damage.
If nothing turns on, or if the temperature doesn’t change, your thermostat may be broken. You may have to troubleshoot, repair, or replace your thermostat.
Consider upgrading to a programmable thermostat. It allows you to adjust the temperature to meet your comfort needs, and still control it even if you aren’t home.
- Change your furnace’s air filter.
To allow proper airflow, make sure the filters are clean and unclogged by replacing them at least once a month.
Filters trap dirt, dust, spores, pet hair and dander, and other contaminants. If the filters are full, they won’t be able to pull these contaminants from the air circulating through your home.
- Clean and inspect outdoor units.
Clean away foliage, dirt, and debris. Plants and other objects must be at least two feet away from your outdoor unit.
Before you switch it on, check for missing or misaligned panels that encase the AC’s electrical connections. Also, check for damaged or cracked insulation along the line set that runs from the outdoor unit into your home.
You may have to call a professional to perform the necessary repairs first.
- Check indoor units for ice around the refrigerant line.
Is there ice on your AC? It’s a sign of a frozen coil, which can dramatically reduce the efficiency of your unit. Once the ice thaws, it may cause the drain pan to overflow, resulting in water damage.
It’s best to hire an HVAC technician to inspect your AC for refrigerant leaks or repair your unit if needed.
- Do a test run.
Let your air conditioner run for at least 10 – 15 minutes. If it produces only hot air, or if it emits a loud noise, turn it off and get it repaired.
- Schedule preventive maintenance.
Your AC will benefit from a tune-up, so they run more efficiently. Tune-ups typically include cleaning and inspecting the necessary components of your system for signs of damage, tightening electrical connections, and measuring refrigerant levels.
HVAC Maintenance Near Me: Keep your AC Running in Optimal Condition
There are ways you can extend your HVAC system’s lifespan, reduce repair costs, and ensure your unit operates efficiently. As you turn the AC on after winter, HVAC maintenance or tune-up is crucial to get ahead of costly repairs and frequent breakdowns in the warmer months ahead.
You can rely on a Good Guy to help keep your AC running in optimal condition. Our seasoned technicians install, maintain, repair, and replace HVAC systems quickly and efficiently. We’ve helped thousands of homeowners since 2014, and we’re great at what we do.
For all your AC needs, book us through the Good Guys Home Services Mobile app or fill out our online form for faster service.
