Depending on the variables above, your air conditioner may not need to settle at all, or it could require settlement between 30 minutes and 24 hours. If you're not sure, the rule of thumb is to let it sit for as long as possible. Once the AC is turned on, it should be fine to use as normal.
After installation or relocation, it is advised to let an air conditioner stand alone for 24 hours, primarily to allow the refrigerant inside the unit to settle. This waiting period is often advised for units tilted or transferred, as it helps prevent potential problems and assures optimal performance.
Moving a New, Unused Air Conditioner
If on its side or back for more than a day, leave it in an upright position and unplugged for 24 hours.
Depending on the system, an optimal time of 3 minutes is required before switching the system on. If the system is turned on without waiting for at least 3 minutes, the system can start with a pressure load. This pressure load prevents the system from cooling properly, which could affect the system in the long run.
Why does the air conditioner need to be upright for 24 hours before running for the first time? This is necessary so the oils in the compressor settle; not doing so can affect the performance of the unit.
The system will often complete a full cycle every 15 to 20 minutes, then turn off for up to 10 minutes before turning back on. Following this process, the system should turn on and off about three times every hour. Is your system doing more than that? Perhaps it is doing so less often than you think it should.
Depending on the variables above, your air conditioner may not need to settle at all, or it could require settlement between 30 minutes and 24 hours. If you're not sure, the rule of thumb is to let it sit for as long as possible. Once the AC is turned on, it should be fine to use as normal.
Allow a 3-minute break after turning the AC on or off and reset the circuit breaker 24 hours prior to first use to prevent damage and improve efficiency. Perform a pre-start inspection by cleaning the unit, checking filters and coils, and starting the AC in fan mode before cooling to ensure it runs smoothly.
In general, wall and window air conditioning units with smaller capacities can typically run for up to eight hours at a time before they need to rest.
The New Regulations
Starting January 1, 2025, all new residential air conditioners and heat pumps must utilize A2L refrigerants. Older refrigerants like R-410, which are likely the refrigerant used by your current system, are being phased out.
It is recommended to let a portable air conditioner sit upright for at least 24 hours before turning it on to allow the refrigerant to settle properly and prevent potential damage to the compressor.
Allowing your air conditioner to rest is an excellent way to extend its life and ensure it operates efficiently throughout the years. Air conditioners, like homeowners, require rest in order to recover and perform optimally.
Inspect and Clean the Outdoor Unit
If the outdoor unit has leaves and dirt all over it, it won't be able to do its job efficiently. Before turning on your AC for the first time, remove any grass, leaves, or other debris stuck in your outdoor unit's condenser fins.
However, leaving your AC on all day consumes more energy and adds wear and tear to your system, which may cost you more money for repairs in the long run.
Once you locate the isolator, you may turn it off and wait for 30 minutes. The time allows for the appliance to dispel electrostatic charge. After half an hour, you can turn the lever your AC should restart without a problem. Once your AC is on, test it to determine if it's working.
Running for 24 hours straight adds wear and tear to numerous system parts, increasing the risk of untimely failures. Rising repair costs: Every time your air conditioner breaks down, you must pay to repair it.
Many property managers say the bans are to prevent damage from improperly installed units, as well as injury and death caused by units falling from second-story rentals.
According to Consumer Reports, most window units last around 8 to 10 years. How long an air conditioner lasts depends on a few factors, including its quality, model type and how well you maintain it.
Normally technicians would advice customers to keep the unit turned off for almost a day, exactly 2-3hrs, just to let the compressor oil settle back into place to provide proper lubrication and prevent clogging or any further damage.
However, most window units and wall air conditioners aren't as powerful. These should only run between eight and 12 hours before you give them a break.
After you've turned off the circuit breaker, you'll want to switch it back to “on.” Wait 30 minutes. Give your air conditioner some time to reset after you turn it on. The internal circuitry can take around 30 minutes to get back up and running, so wait half an hour before moving to the next step.
If, for any reason, the system is on its side for any length of time, it is a good idea to put it in the upright position for a day before you turn it on. This may help to minimize damage to the compressor and give the system time to settle.
First, check your filters and coils for dirt and debris that may be impeding airflow. Once you've cleaned the filters and coils, run the air conditioner with just the fan so that the ice accumulation can melt off. If the AC still doesn't blow cold air, it could be that refrigerant levels are too low.