Tips Before Turning on Your AC
While we’re still enjoying some of the springtime weather today, warmer temps are definitely on the way. With those warmer temps comes switching on the AC for the first time…probably for the first time in months. Most of the time, your air conditioner is ready for you and gets to work. But there are a few things you can do today, ahead of the switch, to make sure the transition is seamless. And, on occasion, problems can creep in over the winter months. If that’s the case, it’s best to address those issues now, before your AC is in high demand.
The big question: when should you first run your AC?
It can be tempting to wait for the first hot day of the year. But if you wait too long, you may be stuck with some of those issues that crept up over winter. We always recommend turning on your AC in the spring…on a day when you know you’ll be around. This will give you a chance to test your HVAC system and catch any problems that require repairs.
Before turning on your AC, follow these simple tips:
Check the outdoor components. Your AC needs air to work properly, so spend some time checking over the comments outside your home. Be sure that it’s not filled with leaves or other debris and check that plants haven’t grown into the system. Blocked airflow can put a strain on the compressor, shortening its overall lifespan, so be sure to clear away anything that’s blocking airflow before turning your system on.
Check the wiring. Your home’s AC runs on electricity. If the flow of electricity is disrupted, your whole system may stop working. For that reason, you should examine all visible wires for signs of wear. If you find anything suspicious, turn off the power to the unit and give us a call right away.
Examine the coolant lines. Just like good airflow, refrigerant in your AC system is essential for operation. If it leaks out during the off-season, your system can work all day long without producing any cold air. Before you turn on your AC, take some time to inspect coolant lines for cracks or holes, and check connections to make sure nothing is loose. Even a tiny pinhole will allow refrigerant to leak off slowly. If you see signs of damage, give us a call and we can assess the situation.
Change your filter. If you’ve read anything on our site, you know we’re kind of a broken record about clean filters. Changing your filter not only extends the life of your home’s comfort system, it’s the easiest way to improve performance and save you money by reducing energy costs. We have a complete selection of media filters, in stock, ready to ship, at the lowest prices.
As always, CTR Heating & Air Conditioning is here to help if you have a questions, concerns, or issues with your system. We have easy online scheduling or you can reach us pretty much anytime at 801-999-4220. We’re here and happy to help!
