Should I Restart My AC Unit After A Power Outage?
This is a great question that customers ask often.
As homeowners in the tropics of SW Florida, we experience power surges and power outages, due to severe storms, downed power lines, overloaded circuits, and other reasons.
Regardless of the situation, this interruption of service can be extremely inconvenient.
To answer this question and help you avoid AC Repair, let’s first talk about the heart of your AC system – the condenser unit.
Built-In Safety Means No Need To Restart My AC After A Power Outage
Your HVAC unit is a sophisticated appliance designed with protective features to keep you and your family safe.
Today’s AC units are equipped with built-in safety mechanisms that will cause the condenser to automatically shut off when an unusual issue or threat is detected, i.e., a power outage.
More specifically, an internal protective overload switch will shut down the compressor to keep it from overheating.
This in turn will help you avoid AC Repair.
Exercise Patience When Restarting My AC Unit After A Power Outage
The best thing you can do after a power surge or outage is exercise patience and wait.
30 minutes is the recommended wait time.
The AC unit’s internal circuitry needs time to reset and should do this automatically after approximately 30 minutes. If the unit does not come back on after this time, try resetting your thermostat.
Restart Your Thermostat On Your AC Unit After A Power Outage
Go to your thermostat and set it to: “Auto” and “Cool.”
Gradually lower the temperature about 3-5 degrees. Avoid setting it to a very low temperature right away, as this could overwork your system.
Slowly lower it to your desired temperature. This will also reduce calls for AC Repair.
Monitor Your AC Unit After A Power Outage
Listen to and observe your unit.
If you notice anything unusual, it is best to give us a call for a thorough inspection.
Practical Tips After Your AC Unit Experiences A Power Outage
Invest in a surge protector. We recommend a whole-home surge protector. Its job is to prevent electrical damage to everything – your AC unit, home appliances, and electronics.
This safeguard prevents excess current from damaging your AC system circuitry and components.
As a result, you can avoid unexpected expenses on AC Repairs.
Elevate your outdoor unit. If your unit is installed on the ground, consider relocating it to a raised concrete pad or a secured platform attached to the home to protect it from flooding.
Perform Regular Maintenance. Make sure you maintain your air conditioner regularly to extend its life and decrease the need for AC Repair. We recommend system maintenance at least 2x year.
PRO TIP: If you just experienced severe weather, call to schedule an extra checkup just to be safe.
This will help you avoid expensive AC Repairs down the road.
Inspect Your Unit. Once the storm is over and it is safe to go outside, look around your condenser unit. Remove any debris, branches, leaves, etc. if you can do it safely.
Your HVAC system is made up of complex and sensitive components.
Once the power comes back on, it is vital to ensure all components are working properly.
Therefore, even though your unit may be functioning properly, it is best to give us a call for a thorough inspection to ensure there are no hidden issues potentially resulting in AC Repair.
Contact Us When Restarting Your AC Unit After A Power Outage
We’ve been helping homeowners just like you for nearly 25 years with their AC unit and look forward to serving you.
For expert assistance and guidance, contact us, your trusted air conditioning repair and installation company in SW Florida.
239-693-9005
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