Installing a new air conditioner is exciting, but you must allow it to settle before turning it on. Although an air conditioner can be set in as little as 30 minutes, this is not always the case. The freon in an AC can settle in 22 minutes on average, but it can take up to 24 hours in some cases.
The cardinal rule involves giving your unit a 3-minute break post activation or deactivation. Such a brief pause assists in keeping its functionality at an optimum level. Resetting the circuit breaker around 24 hours before the air conditioner's first summer use is a tactic often overlooked.
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.
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.
By properly situating the air conditioner, you can allow the oil to return to the compressor. That is precisely what settling entails. Our AC repair specialists in Mississauga suggest that the compressor may be damaged if the air conditioner is turned on for an extended period before it settles.
If on its side or back for more than a day, leave it in an upright position and unplugged for 24 hours.
Once the AC completes a cycle of about 15 and 20 minutes, it should remain off for 7 to 10 minutes. This helps it cool off before starting another cycle. The stops happen 2 to three times per hour.
Freon settles in an air conditioner in a matter of minutes. Though, it depends on the type of air conditioner too. If the air conditioner is portable, it takes about 5-30 minutes for the Freon to settle. This time must be dedicated to the appliance for it to function properly.
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.
If it has been necessary to transport the portable air conditioner on its side, it should be stood upright for an equal amount of time as it was on its side before plugging it in. If it was on its side for more than a day, leave standing for 24 hours before running.
Optimum placement includes a wall facing north or south; east and west walls are best to avoid, if possible, since they receive more sun exposure throughout summer months, which makes your air conditioner work harder and end up costing you more in energy fees.
When you lay your portable air conditioner on its side or tilt it at an angle, certain parts of the compressor are deprived of lubrication oil. This causes the compressor's components to collide, resulting in wear and tear.
Your AC unit doesn't need to rest during the sweltering summer heat. Air conditioners are designed to operate continuously for extended periods, especially during summer when the heat is at its peak. In fact, shutting your AC unit off for extended periods could actually hurt your unit in the long run.
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.
Wear and Tear on the System
Turning your air conditioner completely off and then on forces the system to work harder. Each time the air conditioner starts, it experiences a surge of power, which can strain the components. Over time, this can lead to a breakdown or the need for premature repairs.
This spring, you'll need to flip it back on again. Reset it ideally 24 hours before turning on your air conditioning after the winter.
Turning the fridge on too soon can lead to a coolant rush, which can cause problems like leaks or blockages. This can damage the fridge, and you may need to pay for expensive repairs. Waiting allows the coolant to settle back into its correct position and ensures that there are no leaks or blockages.
If you've ever moved a fridge freezer, or even bought one brand new, you'll know that you are meant to give them time to settle once they've been put back down again. Waiting 24 hours before plugging in your fridge prevents compressor damage and ensures proper oil circulation.
The constant running of your AC unit will reduce pressure in the evaporator, or cooling coil until it freezes over, according to Cool Today. This is why in some cases, this constant running can be dangerous.
Is it safe to leave the air conditioner on all night? It is safe! However, it can lead to greater expenses associated with energy usage. Ask our team at Comfort Specialists about energy-saving solutions today!
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.
Giving your air conditioner a 15 to 30-minute break every 2 to 3 hours of uninterrupted functioning can be beneficial. The system can cool down, and its parts can rest during this time, reducing the stress on the unit.
Most Air Conditioners Are Fine if They're Not Used for 3-4 Months. In general, today's durable air conditioners were built to last. Many are meant to run every day for months at a time and are expected to last for decades.
If transported on its side, turn it upright and let it stand for at least four hours.