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 easiest ways to keep your air conditioner running smoothly is to stay up on annual maintenance and tune-ups. There are also a few basic things you can check on yourself that could keep you from being left in the cold and in need of an emergency AC repair.
- Keep Air Vents Open - There's some misinformation out there about closing off vents in unused rooms. In theory, it sounds like this would save on energy expenses. However, closing off vents actually puts an increased strain on your system that can lead to problems 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.
- Check Your Thermostat - Sometimes when your air conditioner isn-t running correctly, the problem is very obvious - dead batteries in your thermostat. Typically, your thermostat will give a warning approximately a month before the battery runs out, but if you missed it, that could be the cause of your heating problems.
Are your vents blowing chilledair instead of hot? There could 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 changing the thermostat.
Your thermostat has a fan setting. If you realize that your system is consistently blowing air, you might 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 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 exchange your filters more often. This then leads to...
- Change Your Air Filter - A dirty filter is the most common reason a heating system stops working. 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 potentially extend the life of your heating system and avoid AC repair.
Along with these three 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 set up an appointment by giving us a call at 410-228-4822.