Is It Too Soon To Use the AC? FAQs About Use at the Beginning of the Season

The weather is warmer and you're ready to use your air conditioning system for the first time this season. Before you set the thermostat or turn a switch from off to on, take a look at the top questions homeowners have about using their air conditioning systems at the beginning of the season, along with pre-season repairs and maintenance.

When Can You Turn On a Central AC System?

You can turn your air conditioner on any time you want, even in the middle of winter. But if you turn on the system before it is warm enough to need it, you will waste money on unnecessary electricity costs. Home cooling costs Americans a collective 29 billion each year, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. 

The more you use your system, the more of this figure your electricity costs will make up. While slightly off-season AC use isn't likely to send your electricity bills into the thousands of dollars range, it also isn't budget (or environmentally) friendly. Instead of using the system when it's cool outside or your home feels comfortable, wait until the weather forecast is for warmer weather. 

Should You Turn On the System Before You Schedule Maintenance?

Sometimes this situation is unavoidable. You scheduled a pre-season checkup and cleaning, but the outdoor air temperature suddenly spiked. Now your home is uncomfortably hot. If opening the windows and using a fan just won't do, you may need to turn on the central AC system before your maintenance visit.

To reduce the need to use the system before you have a professional inspect and clean it, schedule a maintenance visit in the spring or when the weather is still cool. A pre-season checkup can improve the efficiency of your system and help to increase home comfort. It can also control indoor air quality and reduce the risks of premature breakdowns or the need for midsummer repairs.

Should You Replace the Filter Before You Turn On an AC System?

The answer to this question depends on a few factors. You will need preseason filter maintenance if:

• You've used the filter for the winter heating season. Do your central air conditioner and furnace share one filter? If you've used the heater (and the filter) for the past few months, you should replace it before turning on the AC.
• You don't know when the last time you changed the filter was. If you haven't changed the filter in months or longer, now is the time to replace it.
• You are still using last year's filter. Did you turn off the air conditioner and leave the filter as-is last year? You will need to replace it now.

A clean filter can boost your system's efficiency and improve indoor air quality. If you're not sure where the filter is or how to change it, talk to the technician during a pre-use maintenance appointment. Some filters don't require a full replacement. Electrostatic filters are reusable options that you can clean.

When Should You Schedule an AC Repair?

Was it a struggle for the system to cool your home last summer? Did the air conditioner make odd noises or have other noticeable issues? If you didn't address these concerns in the fall, you will need to schedule an AC repair service before you turn on the system. This will give your air conditioner a fresh start and give you a summer filled with cool indoor air.

Do you need to schedule a preseason AC checkup, cleaning, or repair service? Contact Haining Home Services for more information or to schedule residential AC services near Grand Junction, CO.