As outdoor temperatures begin to increase and the first warm days in months have finally arrived, one of the first things most people tend to do is reach for their air conditioning unit to lower the indoor temperature in their living space.
This raises the question about when you should be turning on your AC during the year and whether there really is an ideal time to kick start your cooling system in the first place.
If you're a homeowner wanting to turn your air conditioner on, but aren't sure if its too soon to do so, stick around as the team from Francis Home Environment breaks down the ins and outs of home cooling below.
At what temperature should I turn on the air conditioner in spring?
To determine the best indoor temperature for your house in the spring, consider your personal indoor comfort preferences. The ideal air temperature indoors will be one that will keep your home cool and comfortable, while conserving your air conditioners energy efficiency levels.
Generally speaking, keeping the temperature at around 21 degrees Celsius will help you conserve energy. If you want to save money on your utility costs, you can also consider doing the following:
Install a programmable thermostat
Installing a programmable thermostat is a great way to keep your energy costs low, without you having to sacrifice your indoor comfort levels. This type of thermostat allows you to schedule cooling cycles as temperatures fluctuate throughout the day and based on your daily routine.
For example, turning the temperature up while you're away from your home, can reduce your energy costs. At the same time, some people will increase the indoor temperature to get a good night's sleep, while others prefer it to be a bit cooler in their room at night.
Again, the most important thing you can remember is that it depends on what you like and your energy saving goals.
Open windows when you can
Another great way to lower energy costs, especially in the early spring is to open windows to allow fresh air to circulate throughout your home. If the outdoor temperature isn't too hot, there's really no reason to have your AC on.
Ask for expert advice
For more customized solutions, we suggest reaching out to a local HVAC company who can conduct an evaluation of of property, before tailoring an action plan for you moving forward.
What should I do before turning my AC on in spring?
Before you switch on your AC unit, it's essential that you book a maintenance appointment with a professional technician who can look over your system and ensure that it will be able to cool your home optimally and safely.
What should I look for before turning on my AC?
Before turning on your air conditioner, it's a good idea to perform a few checks to ensure it operates efficiently and safely:
- Ensure filters are clean for efficient airflow.
- Clear debris around the outdoor unit to prevent airflow obstruction.
- Take note of any unusual noises or odors before starting.
- Ensure the condensate drain is clear to prevent water backup.
- Schedule regular HVAC maintenance for thorough inspection and tune-up.
Should I change my air filters before turning on my AC?
Yes, homeowners should change the air filter in their AC system before they turn it on for the summertime.
Because you haven't used your air conditioners during the winter months, it's likely that the air filter has collected dust, hair, dirt, and other debris. As such, if you don't change the filter in your HVAC system, as you go to use it to cool your interior, it can diminish your indoor air quality, increase your energy bills, and cause wear and tear on your equipment by blocking airflow.
Should I call a contractor before turning on my air conditioning?
Yes, before turn on your air conditioner, we recommend booking a maintenance appointment to ensure your air conditioner is working properly before the summer season begins.
Routine maintenance on your AC unit in the early spring is an important thing that is affordable and will keep your cooling system efficient as you go about cooling your home.
Skipping maintenance before the summer can lead to increased utility bills and breakdowns on a hot day when you least expect it. Therefore, by doing maintenance on your AC unit ahead of time, you can rest assured knowing you'll be able to keep your house cool and comfortable for you and your family.
Book HVAC System Services with Francis Home Environment Today!
Before the sun and warm weather become the norm, book a air conditioning maintenance appointment with the team from Francis Home Environment to ensure your AC equipment is able to work optimally all season long!
If you live in Ottawa, Arnprior, Greenly Kemptville, Orleans, Russell, Vanier, Carleton Place, Kanata, Nepean, Rockland, or Stittsville, reach out to the team to schedule your cooling services today!
Our cooling system technicians are available for air conditioning maintenance and repairs 24/7/365 days a year including after-hours, weekends, and holidays at no additional charge to you!
In the market for an air conditioner installation? Book a consultation with a home comfort advisor to learn more about the different AC system options we offer. We'll also give you more information about our discounts and financing so you can save money on your new air conditioner!
Reach out to Francis Home Environment over the phone or make service request using out online form!
