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 arrived and right now you're counting on your air conditioner more than ever. One of the best ways to keep your air conditioner running effortlessly is to keep up on annual maintenance and tune-ups. There are also a couple easy things you can check on yourself that could keep you from being left in the cold and in need of an emergency AC repair.

  1. Keep Air Vents Open - There's some misinformation out there about closing off vents in empty rooms. In theory, it sounds like this would save on energy bills. However, closing off vents actually puts an increased strain on your system that may lead to problems in the future. Interior walls are not insulated and the temperature in the room then goes to other rooms in your house, leaving an imbalance and causing your system to work less efficiently.
  2. Check Your Thermostat - Sometimes when your air conditioner isn-t running as it should be, the problem is very obvious - drained batteries in your thermostat. Usually, your thermostat will provide a warning approximately a month before the battery stops working, but if you missed it, that may be the cause of your heating issues.
  3. Are your vents blowing coolair instead of warm? There might be a simple explanation for it. Check and be sure your thermostat is set to "heat" instead of "cool". You never know who has been messing around with the thermostat.

    Your thermostat has a fan setting. If you realize that your system is constantly blowing air, you could have your fan set to "on" versus "auto". The "on" switch continually keeps your fan blowing, regardless if your AIR CONDITIONER is currently heating. The "auto" switch only runs the blower 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 dirty filter is the most common reason a heating system breaks down. Dirt and debris keep air from passing around your system and that can possibly cause your air conditioner to overheat. Changing your air conditioner filter is the easiest way to help try to extend the lifetime of your heating system and avoid AC repair.

Along with these easy tips, the best advice is to keep up with annual, scheduled air conditioner maintenance. If you haven't arranged your annual air conditioner service yet, you can easily arrange an appointment by giving us a call at 435-753-5515.