Too often, air conditioners go out without warning and without a clear explanation as to why. As a result, many people wind up calling HVAC professionals to come out and fix it. While there are many different things that can go wrong with an air conditioner, here are five different ways to troubleshoot your AC if there is a problem. First, check to make sure that the unit is plugged in and that the circuit breaker has not been tripped. If there is no power to the unit, then you will need to call an electrician. If there is power to the unit, then the next step is to check the thermostat to see if it is set properly.
Check the thermostat
If your AC unit isn’t working, one of the first things you should check is the thermostat. If it’s not set properly, the unit won’t kick on. Check to make sure the thermostat is set to “cool” and that the temperature is lower than the current room temperature. Also, make sure the switch is set to “auto” rather than “on”. If all of these settings are correct and the unit still isn’t working, move on to the next troubleshooting step.
Check the air filter
A dirty air filter can block airflow and cause the unit to overheat, leading to a breakdown. To check the air filter, open the cabinet of your AC unit and locate the filter. Pull it out and examine it to see if it’s covered in dust or dirt. If it is, it’s time to replace the filter with a new one. You can buy replacement filters at most hardware stores or online. Once you have a new filter, insert it into the AC unit and close the cabinet door. Then turn on your AC unit and see if it’s working properly.
Check for blockages
Blockages can occur in the ductwork, air filter, or even the outdoor unit. Ductwork blockages are usually caused by dirt and debris build-up over time. To check for this, take a look at your ducts and see if there is any visible debris. If so, you’ll need to clean them out. Air filter blockages are also common and can be caused by not changing your air filter often enough. A blocked air filter will restrict airflow and make it harder for your AC to cool your home. To check your air filter, simply remove it from the unit and hold it up to a light source. If you can’t see through it, it’s time to replace it.
Check the evaporator coil
This is a key component of your AC unit, and if it’s not functioning properly, it can affect the overall performance of your AC. To check the evaporator coil, first make sure that the power to your AC unit is turned off. Then, remove the access panel to the evaporator coil and inspect it for any signs of damage or debris. If you see any damage, you’ll need to replace the evaporator coil. If there’s no visible damage, then clean the evaporator coil with a brush or vacuum cleaner attachment. Once you’ve cleaned the coil, reassemble the AC unit and turn it on to see if that fixes the problem.
Check the compressor
If the compressor is not working properly, it could be causing your AC unit to work harder than necessary and preventing it from cooling your home effectively. There are a few things you can do to check if your compressor is working properly: First, take a look at the compressor itself. If it appears to be damaged or leaking, then it may need to be replaced. Next, check the electrical connections to the compressor. Make sure that all of the wires are securely connected and that there are no loose or damaged wires. Finally, test the compressor by turning on the AC unit and feeling for cool air coming from the vents. If there is no cool air, then the compressor may need to be repaired or replaced.
Air conditioners are essential in hot weather, but they can also be a big headache in the summer if they go out of commission. By following these five tips, you should be able to troubleshoot the problem and get your air conditioner working again. If after following these suggestions your AC still isn’t working, contact Hodge’s Electrical, Heating & Air Conditioning in Roanoke, Virginia so we can get your AC cooling again in no time.
