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We’ve all done it at some point, turning the central AC on and off quickly, thinking that the system may not be running. So in this post, I’ll explore the technical side behind how long you should wait before turning on your air conditioner after switching it off. Note: It’s more important than you think.
When you switch off your air conditioner, the entire system restarts. Several components, including the refrigerant and condensate, reboot when an air conditioning system reboots.
Before turning on the AC again, an ideal period of 3 minutes of being off is necessary, depending on the system, so that the system can completely recycle properly.
If the system is turned on without waiting at least three minutes, it can begin with a pressure load. This pressure load inhibits the system from adequately cooling, which may have long-term consequences.
This pressure, if not equalized, may result in the system breaking down and will need a service call or, worse, an entirely new system.
Why Should You Wait Before Turning on AC
High AC pressure build-up caused by prematurely restarting the system might create various problems with the unit. Among them are;
Refrigerant Leakage
A high-pressure load in your air conditioner might cause a leak in the system’s refrigerant line. The refrigerant is the AC’s cooling agent.
A leak in the refrigerant line reduces the quantity of refrigerant accessible in the system, putting strain on the system and lowering its efficiency.
How Do You Know If Your System Uses Freon?
It affects the lifespan of the system
High AC pressure impairs the system’s capacity to function. This, in turn, reduces the system’s lifespan since it burdens it and reduces its capacity to function, decreasing its efficiency level. As a result, AC repair may be necessary.
Prematurely restarting your air conditioner might cause problems such as refrigerant leakage and limited lifetime. As a result, the 3-minute rule is recommended.
Increase In Energy Consumption
High AC pressure impacts it in addition to increasing energy usage. Put another way, the higher the AC pressure, the more energy it needs to function correctly. This is not only expensive, but it also affects the efficiency of the system’s compressor, raising your electricity bill.
The compressor is an air conditioner component that circulates low-pressure refrigerants. It is unable to do this task due to excessive AC pressure.
Do I Need to Do Anything Before Turning My AC On?
Giving your air conditioner a thorough inspection before turning it on is critical for maintaining it in excellent working order and avoiding mishaps.
Here are the four most crucial things to look for before turning on your air conditioner after a while:
Examine the Outdoor Component
Air circulation is essential for your heat pump to function correctly, so inspect your exterior unit. Check that it is not clogged with leaves or other debris. There might be plants that grew into the system or bee hives, or wasps taking over.
Any airflow restriction can burden the compressor, reducing its overall lifespan; therefore, make sure to remove any obstructions before turning on your system.
Check the Coolant Lines
The refrigerant in your air conditioning system is critical to its performance. If it escapes during the winter, your system might run all day without creating chilly air.
Before you start your system for the season, inspect the coolant lines for cracks or holes and check the connections to ensure nothing is loose.
They might have been harmed by water, animals, pets, or human activity. Even the tiniest opening will allow refrigerants to leak out slowly.
Examine Visible Wires
It’s critical to realize that your air conditioner is a piece of electrical equipment. If the flow of power is interrupted, your entire system may fail. As a result, you should inspect any visible wires for indications of wear.
If you discover anything suspicious, disconnect the equipment and notify a local HVAC contractor for a system examination. Avoid any exposed connections, and don’t remove any cover panels or screws. Simply inspect the exposed wiring and look for anything out of the ordinary.
Check the Filters
Changing the air filter in your air conditioner is the most straightforward approach to saving energy expenditures and increasing the life of your system.
High-quality filters also remove allergens from the air you and your family breathe daily.
Most experts advocate changing the air filter before turning on your air conditioner for the season and every three months while it’s running.
Do Air Conditioners Need to Rest?
Air conditioners wear down faster when they are continually turned on. If you are away from home for an extended period, switch off the air conditioner. You may lower the thermostat to 5 degrees to keep the unit on but not cool the air.
You may also raise the temperature at night. Both of these methods will assist in extending the life of your AC unit because it will not be operating continuously without a break. This will assist in extending the life of your air conditioner.
FAQs
Do You Have To Wait 24 Hours to Turn on an Air Conditioner?
In the spring, it is a sensible plan to fastidiously come to the breaker a minimum of twenty-four hours before turning on your home’s air con unit. Many owners turn off the unit’s breaker throughout the winter and install it once the weather warms up.
Why Should You Wait 3 Minutes Before Restarting Air Conditioner?
The entire system resets once you close up your air conditioning. If the system is turned on while not initially waiting 3 minutes, it will begin with a pressure load. Too much of a pressure load can damage the AC.
HVAC tech with over 30 years of experience. Retired and doing repair work on the side around Madison County, AL.