Is it OK to run a central air conditioner in cold-weather climates? Under certain circumstances, a homeowner might think about starting up a central AC while the temperature outside is still fairly cool. Maybe the house has become overheated by the furnace and occupants want to run the unit for a quick cooldown. Or, perhaps you want to simply test the AC to make sure it’s in good working condition for the warmer weather that is soon to arrive.
What Can Go Wrong?
The fact is, central air conditioners are designed and constructed to be operated in relatively warm conditions. Many operating manuals that come with central units include a caution to not operate the unit if outdoor temperatures are below 55 or 60 degrees. Depending on the circumstances, many professionals, including HVAC service technicians and home inspectors, may decline to start up a central air conditioner if the outdoor temperature is below recommended levels.
Here’s how cold-weather climates affect a central air conditioner and why starting up your air conditioner in low outdoor temperatures should be avoided:
- The system compressor inside the outdoor component of a central AC relies on oil to lubricate and cool the unit. This heavy-grade oil becomes very thick in cold weather and will not properly lubricate the compressor if the air conditioner is operated, causing excess wear and tear. A compressor is an extremely expensive component. In some cases, it may be more economical to purchase a new central air conditioner than to replace a damaged compressor.
- Refrigerant that circulates in the air conditioner is usually in a vaporous state inside the compressor. However, cold temperatures cause the gas to liquify inside the compressor. Since a compressor is designed to compress a vapor — not a liquid — severe damage to the compressor may result if the unit is started up at a temperature below recommended levels.
Consult the professionals at Ace Hardware Home Services for more facts about running a central air conditioner in cold-weather climates.
