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Last Revised: 4/17/25
Are you wondering when it’s the right time to turn on your AC each spring? Could starting it too early or too late affect your comfort, energy bills, or even the system’s health?
Knowing the right moment to switch on your air conditioner is about more than just comfort – it’s about getting the most out of your system all year long. Turning it on for good at the wrong time – or without the right prep – can lead to poor performance, wasted energy, or even a mid-season breakdown.
The team at Mattioni has helped thousands of families make the seasonal transition with confidence. If you’re unsure when or how to start up your AC for the year, we’ve got you covered.
In this article, you’ll learn:
- When to turn on your air conditioner based on outdoor temperatures
- What steps to take before powering up the system
- Why a spring tune-up is a smart move
- How to recognize early warning signs of trouble
- Helpful FAQ to answer some common questions
Let’s get started.
When’s the Right Time of Year to Switch on Your AC?
As a general rule, it’s time to turn on your AC for good when outdoor temperatures consistently reach the mid-70s during the day. Depending on the weather, late April or early May is when most homes begin to feel uncomfortably warm – especially those with lots of sun exposure or poor ventilation.
Waiting too long can make your home muggy or uncomfortable, while turning it on too early might drive up energy use unnecessarily.
Running your AC in short bursts on a warm day won’t harm the system and is a smart way to test its performance before you truly need it. If you have any concerns about how your AC worked last year, turning it on for a few hours during the spring is a great idea.
Then, if you notice anything unusual, you can schedule a service appointment when HVAC companies are still offering bigger discounts – before the summer rush hits. In addition to cost savings, there are several other reasons to proactively replace your home’s AC before the middle of summer.
Late April to early May is often the sweet spot to give your AC a test run and do some routine housekeeping on the system.
What to Check Before Using Your AC Every Day
Before you flip your thermostat to “cool” indefinitely, take a few basic steps to ensure your system is ready:
- Replace your air filter: A clean filter improves airflow and efficiency while protecting your system.
- Clear debris from the outdoor unit: Leaves, mulch, and winter buildup can restrict airflow to your condenser (outdoor unit).
- Check your thermostat: Make sure it’s set to cooling mode, operating properly, and calibrated correctly to your preferred indoor temperature. If your thermostat uses room sensors, now is the time to set those up too.
- Test it briefly: Let it run for 10-15 minutes and check around for cool airflow, unusual sounds, or odors.
Taking a few minutes to prep your system can help you avoid unpleasant surprises when warm weather arrives in full force.
Do I Really Need a Spring AC Tune-Up?
Even if your AC seems to run fine, a spring professional tune-up is one of the best ways to ensure that it won’t encounter an unforeseen problem later in the summer when you’re using it on end. It’ll protect your comfort – and your investment.
A spring maintenance visit typically includes:
- Cleaning the indoor and outdoor coils
- Checking refrigerant levels
- Tightening electrical connections
- Inspecting moving parts
- Ensuring proper airflow and performance
Regular maintenance helps your system run more efficiently, reduces the chance of a mid-summer breakdown, and extends the lifespan of your equipment. You can sleep easy with peace of mind heading into the hottest months of the year.
Looking for cost-effective and comprehensive HVAC support from a trusted company? Click here to learn about the benefits of a VIP membership with Mattioni.
How Do I Know if Something’s Wrong?
If you’ve turned on your AC and notice anything unusual, don’t wait to address it. Common early-season warning signs include:
- Warm air blowing from the vents
- Unusual noises like grinding, buzzing, or clanking
- Short cycling, where the system turns on and off very frequently
- Slow startup or the system failing to turn on at all
These symptoms can indicate issues such as low refrigerant, dirty coils, electrical problems, or failing components. Catching them early can prevent costly repairs later – and keep you cool when temperatures spike.
Frequently Asked Questions: Starting Up Your AC for the Season
What temperature should I set my thermostat to in spring?
For comfort and efficiency, aim for 72-74°F when home, and raise it to around 78°F when you’re away.
Is it bad to run my AC while it’s still cold at night?
If nighttime temps fall below about 65°F, it’s best to avoid using the AC. Open windows or use fans instead to prevent system stress or short cycling.
Will turning it on too early or too late hurt efficiency or comfort?
Yes. Turning it on too early wastes energy; too late risks discomfort or discovering problems when it’s already hot out. The mid-70s is the ideal activation range.
How do I know if my AC is too old to start up reliably?
If it’s 12-15 years old, had frequent issues last year, or struggles to cool your home, it might be time to consider replacement. A professional inspection can help give you more information to decide.
When’s the best time of year to schedule AC service?
The sooner, the better. By being proactive about maintenance, you’ll catch minor issues before they become costly repairs. You’ll also protect the efficiency and performance of your AC system, leading to lower energy costs and a more comfortable home.
Is There A Program Designed to Keep My AC System Running Smoothly?
Yes – there is. A VIP membership with Mattioni is a cost-effective way to protect your home’s utility systems now and in the future.
Stay Smart, Stay Cool
After a long winter, knowing exactly when and how to restart your AC is key to staying comfortable and avoiding headaches.
Switching the system on for a few hours during one of the first hot days of the year can help you run a few quick checks without wasting much energy. Then, when temperatures reach the mid-70s consistently, your system is ready to be turned on indefinitely to keep your home cool.
And for the most peace of mind, a professional tune-up will help you avoid unexpected repairs and start the season confidently.
With over 75 years of trusted service, Mattioni is your local partner for AC maintenance, repair, and replacement. Whether you’re starting up your system or need expert help diagnosing a concern, we’re here to keep your home cool and comfortable.
Don’t get caught in a heatwave – call (610) 400-8510 to schedule your AC tune-up or book it online today.
