By allowing the coolant to settle before turning on the AC, you can help avoid any potential damage to the compressor. However, the settling time differs depending on a few factors:
- The type of AC you have
- Age of the unit
- Manufacturer’s guidelines
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. If you have any concerns, however, consult your owner’s manual or contact our team at Martino HVAC for more information.
Why is it Necessary For an Air Conditioner to Sit Upright Before Being Used?
You want to keep the air conditioner compressor lubricated, but that may not be possible if it’s not settled before air conditioning installation in Mississauga. This is particularly common when air conditioners are not correctly positioned during transportation.
When a unit is turned on its side, the oil may leak out the compressor case. 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.
How Long Should an Air Conditioner be Allowed to Settle?
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 manufacturer usually specifies the compressor’s settling time when buying an air conditioner. If you want your air conditioner to keep your house cool for a long time, you must treat it accordingly. AC repair professionals in Mississauga might advise you to wait a specified time before using the device.
To find out the solution, you’ll have to consult the unit’s handbook. While out shopping, you may come across an air conditioning machine that may be used after 30 minutes of cooling. That’s the shortest amount of time you’ll have to wait. Other air conditioners will require their owners to wait hours before they can enjoy comfortable cooling. These wait periods may last an hour, six hours, or even a whole day.
Do You Need to Let an AC Settle if it Hasn’t Been Used For Several Months?
The answer is contingent on whether the air conditioner was stored during its inactive period or if it is an older model that hasn’t been used in a long time. The lubrication in your air conditioner may not be where it needs to be if it has been sitting on its side for an extended period. Allow it to cool and settle for a day or two before reusing it.
Want to know more about maintenance, repair, service, or air conditioning installation in Mississauga? Martino HVAC can provide budget-friendly and trustworthy services. Call us at 647-277-9680.