Simple Ways to Avoid Calling for AC Repair This Winter
Winter has arrived and right now you're relying on your air conditioner more than ever. One of the best ways to keep your air conditioner running efficiently is to stay up on 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.
- Keep Air Vents Open - There's some misinformation out there 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 could 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 run less efficiently.
- Check Your Thermostat - Sometimes when your air conditioner isn-t running as it should be, the problem is very simple - depleted batteries in your thermostat. Normally, your thermostat will give a warning about a month before the battery stops working, but if you missed it, that could be the cause of your heating troubles.
Are your vents blowing chilledair instead of hot? There may be a simple explanation for it. Check and ensure 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 notice that your system is always blowing air, you may have your fan set to "on" versus "auto". The "on" switch constantly keeps your fan blowing, regardless if your AIR CONDITIONER is currently heating. The "auto" switch only utilizes 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...
- Change Your Air Filter - A dirty 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. 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 three 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 set up an appointment by giving us a call at 703-260-1148.