Discovering that your AC isn’t working properly is typically annoying and inconvenient. It can be tempting to call the AC company immediately, but sometimes the source of the problem is something you can easily fix in less time — and for free. Before you pick up the phone to schedule an HVAC repair, stop and follow these AC troubleshooting tips.
Check the Thermostat Settings
If something doesn’t seem right with your AC system, whether it feels too hot or you aren’t sure it’s working at all, check your thermostat to make sure all of the settings are correct. Sometimes we can accidentally change a setting while changing the temperature, which can cause inadequate cooling. Your thermostat should be set to COOL and the fan should be set to AUTO.
Changing the setting should fix the problem. You can test that the system is turning on by dropping the temperature a few degrees and seeing if the AC starts cycling. If you’re still experiencing cooling issues or the system won’t turn on, continue to the next troubleshooting step.
Inspect the Circuit Breaker Panel
While it may look to you like your air conditioner is broken when it;s not turning on, you should first check that it’s being supplied with power. If too much power runs through an electrical circuit at once, switches called circuit breakers on the electric panel flip to cut off power and prevent the appliances plugged into the circuit from being damaged.
Your inside and outside AC units are most likely connected to two separate circuits, which will be labeled. If one or both of the switches are flipped, flip the back to the correct position and wait for a few minutes for your air conditioner to turn on. It should start running pretty quickly.
Change the Air Filter
If your AC is on but not cooling or there is poor airflow, the system might be clogged by a dirty air filter. When dust and debris gather on the filter — which means it’s doing its job — less air is allowed to flow into the AC system, reducing the amount of cool air that can flow out of it. If your filter is dirty, change it and check for an improved performance after about an hour. Remember to change your filter every few months, or monthly if you have shedding pets.
Calling a Professional
If none of these troubleshooting tips improves your AC’s performance, it’s time to call on a trustworthy, professional HVAC company like Barker’s Heating & Cooling for help. A licensed technician will be able to inspect your AC system and locate the exact problem before recommending repairs.
Barker’s Heating & Cooling provides the AC repair College Station residents trust to properly fix any problems with their air conditioners. Contact us today for more information or to start a service request.
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