When Your Air Conditioner Won't Work

Making The Switch From Cooling To Heating

29 December 2016 by Clara Fernandez

When the temperatures start to cool down for the season, you will find yourself reaching for the "heat" button on your thermostat sooner or later. Before you make the transition from cooling to heating your home, here are some things that you should do to shut down your AC for the season and begin using the heater.

Closing Down Your AC System

The first thing to do is to take care of end-of-season air conditioner maintenance tasks. First, you will want to shut down your air conditioning unit and allow any condensation coils to thaw. Then, empty the drip pans of your air conditioner and cool them. If you have an outdoor AC unit, hose it down and clean it. An air conditioner cover is advised for some units to protect the system from exposure to the winter elements. Check your owner's manual for any additional tasks that may be needed. If you have noticed any issues with your air conditioning system over the summer season, note them down. You'll want to get them checked out before the beginning of next year's air conditioner season, and some people like to do them at the end of the season so that they are ready for the summer. 

Adjust Your HVAC System and Other Components

You may also want to adjust your HVAC's settings for winter operation. For example, you might want to open or close vents if your heating needs are different from your home's cooling needs. Cleaning the HVAC ductwork and replacing air filters is another important step. Other components that may need some attention include your home's thermostat or smart control system.

Inspecting, Cleaning, and Preparing the Furnace for Operation

The final step is to make sure that your heating system is ready for operation. It's often a good idea to have a heating contractor inspect and clean the unit prior to the start of the season, so that you can ensure your heater is working at its optimal capacity for the winter to come. A heating inspector will check on the pilot light operation, clean out the combustion chamber, replace the air filters and fan belt (and any other parts that are worn), and troubleshoot any other problems with optimal operations that may come up during the inspection. By following this type of routine each time you start operating your furnace for the season, you can promote an optimal lifespan for all elements of your heating and cooling system.

Visit more companies like High Tech Heating & Air Conditioning Inc for more information.

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