Facing a malfunctioning air conditioner during the peak of summer can leave you stressed and uncomfortable. Such a situation demands immediate attention, but not everyone knows the best steps to take.
Following the advice laid out here, you’ll be prepared to act swiftly and efficiently, ensuring your living space returns to its comfortable, relaxed state as soon as possible.
No sweat when your AC gives out; just call River Valley Air Conditioning for a quick fix and chill out.
Check the thermostat
This is the first and easiest step. While it can seem too basic, it’s surprising how often the issue stems from accidentally changing thermostat settings or the device running out of batteries. Make sure that your thermostat is set to “cool” and that it is set lower than the room temperature.
Additionally, if your thermostat is programmable, confirm that it’s set to the correct time and program settings for cooling. This quick check can save you time and possibly the expense of an unnecessary service call.
Inspect the circuit breaker
If checking the thermostat doesn’t resolve the issue, the next step is to examine the circuit breaker. Power outages or surges can lead to tripped breakers, cutting off the electricity supply to your air conditioning unit.
Locate your home’s electrical panel and look for the breaker labeled for your AC unit. If it’s in the “off” position or positioned between “on” and “off,” it has likely tripped. To reset it, switch it to the “off” position and then back to “on.”
This simple step can often restore power to your air conditioner, getting it back up and running. However, if the breaker trips repeatedly, this may indicate a more serious electrical issue, and it’s advisable to call a professional service technician to avoid potential hazards.
Examine the air filter
A clogged or dirty air filter is a common reason for inefficient air conditioner operation. The filter traps dust, pollen, and other particles to prevent them from circulating in your home.
However, airflow to the AC system is restricted when filters get clogged with debris over time. This can reduce cooling efficiency, increase energy usage, or even cause the system to freeze up and stop working.
To troubleshoot this issue, locate and examine your air conditioner’s filter. If it’s dirty or clogged, you should clean or change the filter according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This simple maintenance task often solves the problem, improving your system’s performance and preventing more serious complications down the line.
Inspect the outdoor unit
When troubleshooting a non-functional air conditioner, don’t overlook the importance of the outdoor unit. Debris, like leaves, dirt, or sticks, can obstruct the unit’s airflow, significantly hampering its efficiency and cooling ability.
To inspect, ensure the unit is clear of any obstructions and remove any debris blocking the air intake or exhaust. Also, check for any visible indications of damage to the unit itself or the surrounding area that could affect functionality. Keeping the outdoor unit clean and clear is a straightforward yet essential maintenance step for optimal air conditioning performance.
Check for visible ice
If your air conditioner stops working efficiently, one possible cause could be ice formation on the coils or other parts of the system. Ice can accumulate when the airflow is reduced due to a dirty filter or if there’s low refrigerant in the system, leading to a decrease in cooling efficiency or complete system shutdown.
To troubleshoot, visually inspect the coils for frost or ice buildup. If ice is present, turn off the unit to let it thaw completely before attempting to restart. This involves giving the system a break, ensuring the air filter is clean, and then monitoring the AC’s performance upon restarting.
If ice formation persists, it may indicate a need for professional maintenance to check for refrigerant levels or other underlying issues. Regular system maintenance can prevent ice formation and help keep your air conditioner running smoothly.
