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 simplest ways to keep your air conditioner running effortlessly is to keep up on annual maintenance and tune-ups. There are also some simple 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 wrong information out there about closing off vents in vacant rooms. In theory, it makes sense that it would save on energy bills. However, closing off vents actually puts an unneeded strain on your system that may lead to issues 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 as it should be, the problem is very easy - depleted batteries in your thermostat. Usually, your thermostat will offer a warning approximately a month before the battery runs out, but if you missed it, that might be the cause of your heating troubles.
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 changing the thermostat.
Your thermostat has a fan setting. If you notice that your system is consistently blowing air, you might have your fan set to "on" instead of "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 change your filters more often. This then leads to...
- 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 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 arrange an appointment by giving us a call at 509-284-4265.