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 showed up and right now you're counting on your air conditioner more than ever. One of the simplest ways to keep your air conditioner running efficiently is to maintain appointments for annual maintenance and tune-ups. There are also a couple simple 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 wrong information out there about closing off vents in empty rooms. In theory, it appears as though would save on energy expenses. However, closing off vents actually puts an unneeded strain on your system that can lead to concerns in the future. Interior walls are not insulated and the temperature in the room will leak to other rooms in your house, making an imbalance and causing your system to run less efficiently.
  2. Check Your Thermostat - Sometimes when your air conditioner isn-t working correctly, the problem is very simple - depleted batteries in your thermostat. Normally, your thermostat will offer a warning about a month before the battery stops working, but if you missed it, that might be the cause of your heating problems.
  3. Are your vents blowing chilledair instead of hot? There may 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 always 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 change your filters more often. This then leads to...

  4. Change Your Air Filter - A nasty filter is the most common reason a heating system quits running. Dirt and debris keep air from passing around your system and that could possibly cause your air conditioner to overheat. Changing your air conditioner filter is the easiest way to help possibly extend the lifespan 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 schedule an appointment by giving us a call at 209-257-3156.