There’s nothing more uncomfortable than when the A/C unit stops working in the middle of the summer. Homeowners often assume the worst when their system ceases to cool down the house. Sure, you may need to buy a new unit, but in most cases, a few simple tweaks may be all it takes to get your home to the right temperature again.
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1. How Old Is the Filter?
Do you remember the last time you changed your air filter? It’s essential to replace your filter according to the manufacturer guidelines—which in most cases is every 30 to 90 days. The filter catches dirt, dust, debris, and even Fido’s hair. A dirty filter, however, can no longer do its job, and it will also put unnecessary stress on your entire system.
If your unit fails to turn on or struggles to cool, try replacing the filter. It may surprise you to find out how much your air conditioner relies on this small and affordable part. Set an alert on your phone or computer to remind you the next time your filter’s due for a change.
2. Do You Have Power?
Make sure your HVAC system has power. As obvious as it sounds, many homeowners call for help only to discover that the system doesn’t have electricity. Check your home’s circuit breaker to make sure your A/C didn’t trip a breaker. If you notice one is out of place, try resetting it to see if the problem resolves. Never ignore a tripped breaker, however. If you find yourself dealing with the same issue over and over again, it’s time to seek professional help to reduce the load on the circuit.
3. Is Your Thermostat Working?
Your A/C system won’t turn on if the thermostat is on the fritz. Try adjusting the temperature to see if the AC turns on or not. If your model requires batteries, try replacing them. Although a seemingly simple fix, your air conditioner will stop working if the thermostat doesn’t have enough power to operate. In the worst-case scenario, you may need to invest in a new thermostat.
4. Are the Coils in Good Shape?
Your air conditioner has two coils—the condenser coil and the evaporator coil. Both of these coils need to be in good condition for them to work correctly. Inspect the condenser coil for packed on dirt or leaves. If the coil appears to be dirty, try cleaning it to see if this resolves your problem.
A frozen condenser coil indicates reduced airflow. Try changing the air filter and open all air registers. If the coil refreezes, you may need to call a professional to repair the system for you.
Don’t Get Stuck in the Heat This Summer
Not only is a hot, humid house uncomfortable, it can also be dangerous. If your air conditioner stops cooling your home, Billy Butler Heating & Air Conditioning can help. Get in touch with us to schedule immediate service if your A/C unit stops working.
