Simple Ways to Avoid Calling for AC Repair This Winter

January 27, 2016

Simple Ways to Avoid Calling for AC Repair This Winter

Winter has reared its head and right now you're relying on your air conditioner more than ever. One of the simplest ways to keep your air conditioner running smoothly is to stay up on annual maintenance and tune-ups. There are also a few easy things you can check on yourself that may keep you from being left in the cold and in need of an emergency AC repair.

  1. Keep Air Vents Open - There's a misunderstanding that exists about closing off vents in unused rooms. In theory, it makes sense that it would save on energy costs. However, closing off vents actually puts an increased strain on your system that may lead to concerns in the future. Interior walls are not insulated and the temperature in the room leaks to other rooms in your house, creating an imbalance and causing your system to run less efficiently.
  2. Check Your Thermostat - Sometimes when your air conditioner isn-t operating properly, the problem is very easy - drained batteries in your thermostat. Usually, your thermostat will give a warning around a month before the battery runs out, but if you missed it, that might be the cause of your heating problems.
  3. Are your vents blowing chilledair instead of warm? There might be a simple explanation for it. Check and make sure your thermostat is set to "heat" instead of "cool". You never know who has been playing around with the thermostat.

    Your thermostat has a fan setting. If you see that your system is consistently blowing air, you might have your fan set to "on" rather than "auto". The "on" switch continually keeps your fan blowing, regardless if your AIR CONDITIONER is currently heating. The "auto" switch only keeps the blower running when the air conditioner is heating your home. Keep in mind, if you keep your switch set to "on" you'll have to swap your filters more often. This then leads to...

  4. Change Your Air Filter - A gross filter is the most common reason a heating system breaks down. Dirt and debris keep air from passing around your system and that could possibly cause your air conditioner to overheat. Swapping your air conditioner filter is the easiest way to help possibly extend the lifetime of your heating system and avoid AC repair.

Along with these simple tips, the best advice is to keep up with annual, scheduled air conditioner maintenance. If you haven't scheduled your annual air conditioner service yet, you can easily arrange an appointment by giving us a call at 949-204-0859.