As the sweltering heat of summer continues, a malfunctioning air conditioning system can quickly turn your home into an uncomfortable and sweaty space. While the temptation to call an air conditioning company immediately is understandable, there are some do-it-yourself (DIY) checks you can perform before making that call. These checks not only help you troubleshoot common issues but also potentially save you time and money on unnecessary service calls.
- CHECK THE THERMOSTAT: Start with the thermostat. Ensure it is set to the cooling mode and at the desired temperature. Sometimes, the issue may be as simple as the thermostat being set incorrectly.
- INSPECT THE AIR FILTER: A dirty or clogged air filter can significantly impede your air conditioner’s performance. Check the filter and replace it if it’s dirty. A clean filter allows for better airflow and improved cooling efficiency.
- BREAKERS : Make sure that you check the breakers, many times this can easily get overlooked because of the simplicity of this solution. Just take a minute to look at the breakers and make sure they are not tripped. Sometimes a power surge is all it takes to trip beakers.
- RESET THE BREAKERS : Many newer units have safety measures that shut the unit down after a power interruption. This may seem like a long shot, but sometimes you need a quick reboot by turning the breakers off for both units. Simply let it sit there for 5 min before turning it back on. Breakers are usually labeled: “A/C” “A/H” “HEAT” “FURNACE”
- THERMOSTAT: Make sure to check the batteries in your thermostat. If the thermostat is dead, then the AC system won’t run. The system receives its direction from the thermostat so always double and triple-check that its batteries are still fresh.
- INSPECT THE CONDENSATE LINE: The condensate drain line removes excess moisture from your air conditioner. Check if it’s clogged. A blocked drain line can result in water leakage and system not to cool because of safety devices.
Before reaching for the phone to call an air conditioning company, it’s a good practice to perform these DIY checks. In many cases, issues can be resolved with simple adjustments or maintenance tasks. However, if you find that your air conditioner still isn’t working correctly after these checks, it’s time to enlist the expertise of Nx Gen Heating and Cooling. We can diagnose and address more complex issues, ensuring that your home stays cool and comfortable during the hottest months of the year.
