What to Do Before Turning Your AC on After Winter

It may still be chilly where you are, but warmer weather is just around the corner. That also means it’ll be time to turn on your air conditioner to keep your home comfortable. But before you crank down the thermostat and expect cool air to start flowing, there are a few important steps you should take.

Turning on your air conditioning system after months of inactivity without proper preparation could lead to inefficiency, poor temperature control, or even a breakdown. To make sure your AC runs smoothly all season long, follow HVAC.com’s checklist of things to do before turning your air conditioner on for the first time after winter.

1. Check and Replace Your Air Filter

One of the simplest, yet most important things you can do before turning on your AC is checking the air filter. A dirty or clogged filter blocks airflow, which forces your system to work harder than necessary. This can lead to higher energy bills and potential damage to your HVAC system.

If your filter is disposable and appears dirty, replace it with a new one. If you have a reusable filter, clean it according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Experts recommend changing your air filter every one to three months, depending on usage and household conditions (such as pets or allergies).

2. Inspect and Clean the Outdoor Unit

Your air conditioner’s outdoor unit (the condenser) has been exposed to the elements all winter. It’s important to inspect it and remove any debris, such as leaves, twigs, dirt, or nests, that may have accumulated around or inside it. A blocked condenser can reduce cooling efficiency and overwork the air conditioning system.

Here’s how to clean your outdoor unit:

• Turn off the power to the AC unit at the breaker or the shutoff box near the condenser.
• Remove any large debris by hand or with a brush.
• Use a garden hose to gently spray the fins and remove dirt. Avoid using high-pressure water, as this could damage the delicate fins.
• Trim any vegetation or grass at least two feet around the unit to ensure proper airflow.

3. Check the Thermostat

Before turning on your AC, check that your thermostat is working properly. If your thermostat is battery-operated, replace the batteries if they are old or weak.

To test your thermostat:

• Set it to “cool” mode and lower the temperature a few degrees below the current room temperature.
• Listen for a click or the sound of the AC kicking on.
• If the air conditioner doesn’t respond, your thermostat may need troubleshooting or replacing.

4. Inspect Your Air Vents and Registers

Walk through your home and check all the supply and return air vents. Over the winter, dust and debris may have built up inside the vents, and furniture or other items may have been moved. When the vents are obstructed, air circulation throughout your home is, too.

• Make sure all vents are open and unobstructed.
• Use a vacuum or damp cloth to clean off dust from the grilles.
• If you notice excessive dust buildup inside the ducts, you may need professional duct cleaning.

5. Test the Circuit Breaker

Your air conditioner requires a dedicated electrical circuit to operate. Over the winter, the breaker may have been turned off or tripped. Before starting your AC, check your home’s electrical panel to ensure the breaker is in the “on” position.

If the breaker trips when you turn on your AC, do not reset it repeatedly. This could indicate an electrical issue that requires professional attention.

6. Schedule a Professional AC Tune-Up

Even if everything appears to be in good shape, it’s always a good idea to schedule a professional air conditioning maintenance appointment before summer arrives. An HVAC technician will perform a comprehensive inspection and tune-up to make sure your air conditioner runs efficiently and catch any potential issues early.

During an AC tune-up, a technician will typically:

• Check refrigerant levels and recharge if necessary.
• Inspect and clean the evaporator and condenser coils.
• Tighten electrical connections.
• Test the system’s performance and efficiency.
• Clear the drain line of clogs to prevent water damage.

Regular maintenance can extend the lifespan of your air conditioner, improve energy efficiency, and reduce the likelihood of unexpected air conditioning system breakdowns.