Spring has a way of pulling you in every direction. Suddenly, your weekends are packed — sports practice, home projects, and maybe even a long-overdue family outing. The to-do list keeps growing, and somewhere in the middle of it all, the warm weather sneaks up on you. Before you know it, you’re flipping the thermostat to cool, hoping the AC kicks on without a hitch. But before you rush into turning on the AC for the first time, you should check a few things to keep it running smoothly all season.
Let’s walk through what to do before turning your AC on after winter to avoid any surprises.
1. Check and Replace Your Air Filter
One of the easiest steps before turning on the AC for the first time is checking your air filter. Over the winter, dust and dirt collect in your HVAC system, which can clog the filter. A dirty filter reduces airflow, makes your system work harder, and lowers indoor air quality. If you have allergies, you’ll want to swap that old filter for a fresh one — spring pollen will be bad enough without extra dust circulating through your home.
A good rule of thumb is to replace your filter every one to three months, depending on pets, household size, and allergy concerns.
2. Inspect the Thermostat
Your thermostat plays a big role in how efficiently your system runs. Checking that your thermostat is one of the most important things to do before turning on your AC this spring. If you’re still using an old-school thermostat, this might be a good time to upgrade to a programmable or smart thermostat. These options help with energy conservation by keeping temperatures in check when no one’s home.
If your thermostat isn’t responding or seems off, check the batteries or call for a professional air conditioning service. A malfunctioning thermostat can make your AC cycle on and off too often or, worse, not turn on at all.
3. Clear Away Debris From the Outdoor Unit
Your outdoor condenser unit has been sitting outside all winter, collecting leaves, dirt, and who knows what else. Before turning on your AC for the first time, take a look at it. Clear away debris, trim plants at least two feet away, and rinse dirt buildup using a garden hose. Be gentle — no pressure washers, as those can bend the delicate fins inside the unit.
A blocked condenser reduces airflow and can cause overheating, leading to expensive repairs. If you notice significant wear or damage, it might be time for professional maintenance.
4. Inspect and Clean the Vents and Ducts
Over the winter, dust and pet hair settle into your ducts, affecting airflow and air quality. Walk through your home and check all supply and return vents. If they’re covered by furniture, rugs, or toys, move things around to allow proper ventilation.
A vacuum with a brush attachment works well to clean vents, but if you notice a lot of buildup inside the ducts or signs of mold, a professional duct cleaning might be necessary. Good airflow means better cooling efficiency and fewer allergy triggers in the house.
5. Test the Circuit Breaker
If your AC doesn’t start at all, the circuit breaker may have tripped. During winter, homeowners sometimes shut off the breaker to their air conditioning system to prevent electricity usage. Double-check that the switch is in the “on” position before assuming there’s a bigger issue.
If the breaker trips again right after turning on the system, that’s a red flag. This could be a sign of electrical issues that need professional attention.
6. Check for Leaks and Water Damage
Your air conditioner removes humidity from the air, and over time, that moisture needs somewhere to go. Checking the drainage system is one of the most vital things to do before turning on your AC this spring. You’ll want to make sure water is flowing away from the unit. A clogged drain line can lead to leaks, water damage, and mold growth in your basement or attic.
If you have a central air conditioner or heat pump, look for signs of refrigerant leaks. Low refrigerant levels mean your system won’t cool efficiently and could freeze up, leading to bigger problems. If you notice ice on the evaporator coil or hear hissing noises, call for service.
7. Give the System a Test Run
Once you’ve checked everything, it’s time to test the system. Set the thermostat to cooling mode and listen for any unusual noises like rattling, buzzing, or loud humming. Pay attention to how quickly cool air starts flowing and check if the temperature drops as expected.
If your system is making strange noises, blowing warm air, or struggling to maintain your desired temperature, don’t wait. Schedule an air conditioning repair in Akron, OH, with Falls Heating & Cooling before peak summer heat arrives. Catching problems early can save money and keep your home comfortable.
8. Schedule Professional Maintenance
Even if everything seems to be working fine, annual maintenance is the best way to extend the life of your AC and avoid costly breakdowns. A professional technician will check refrigerant levels, inspect electrical components, and clean the system to improve efficiency.
Routine air conditioning service also helps lower energy bills by making sure your system isn’t working harder than necessary. Plus, catching minor issues now can prevent major repairs later in the summer.
Get Your AC Ready With Falls Heating & Cooling!
Spring is a busy season, and the last thing you need is an AC breakdown when temperatures rise. As you can see, there are many things to do before turning on your AC this spring. Learning how to turn on the AC for the first time after winter and going through these steps can keep your system running smoothly all summer.
If you run into problems, Falls Heating & Cooling is here to help. Since 1986, we’ve been providing expert air conditioning service in Akron, OH, with a focus on honest work and customer satisfaction.
Does your AC need a tune-up or repair? Give us a call today to schedule your service in Akron, OH, or one of the surrounding areas! We’ll make sure your system is ready to handle the heat so you don’t have to sweat it.
