8 Steps to Fix Common AC Problems at Home
Summer is here, and everyone wants to stay cool inside their homes. But if your air conditioning (AC) unit is not working correctly, it can be frustrating and uncomfortable. Fortunately, some AC problems are common and can be fixed quickly. In this blog post, we will discuss eight steps that a homeowner can take to fix common AC problems.
Check the Thermostat
The first step in fixing common AC problems is to check the thermostat. The thermostat is an essential part of your AC unit, and it can cause problems if it is not functioning correctly. If your AC unit is not working, check the thermostat first. Make sure that it is set to "cool" and the temperature is lower than the current room temperature. Also, check that the thermostat is receiving power and the batteries are not dead.
Clean or Replace the Air Filter
The second step to fix common AC problems is to clean or replace the air filter. A dirty air filter can cause various AC problems, including poor airflow, reduced efficiency, and system breakdowns. To prevent this, homeowners should clean or replace their air filters every one to three months, depending on usage. A dirty air filter can also cause the AC unit to freeze up, which can damage the compressor. Therefore, it is essential to clean or replace the air filter regularly.
Check the Circuit Breaker
If your AC unit is not working, it may be due to a tripped circuit breaker. To fix this, go to your electrical panel and check if the circuit breaker that controls the AC unit is tripped. If it is, flip it back to the "on" position. However, if the circuit breaker trips again, it may indicate a more severe electrical problem that requires professional help.
Check the AC Drain Line
The fourth step to fix common AC problems is to check the AC drain line. The AC drain line removes excess moisture from the air conditioning unit. However, if it becomes clogged, it can cause water damage and other problems. To fix this, locate the drain line and remove any blockages by using a wet-dry vacuum or flushing it out with a mixture of water and vinegar.
Clean the Condenser Coils
The fifth step to fix common AC problems is to clean the condenser coils. The condenser coils are located outside and can become dirty and clogged with debris, dirt, and dust. This can cause your AC unit to work harder and less efficiently, leading to higher energy bills and system breakdowns. To fix this, clean the condenser coils regularly using a soft brush and water hose.
Check the Fan Blades
The sixth step to fix common AC problems is to check the fan blades. The fan blades are responsible for blowing air over the evaporator coils to cool the air. If they become dirty or damaged, they can cause the AC unit to work harder and less efficiently. To fix this, turn off the power to the AC unit, remove the fan cover, and clean the fan blades with a soft brush and water hose.
Check for Refrigerant Leaks
The seventh step to fix common AC problems is to check for refrigerant leaks. Refrigerant leaks can cause your AC unit to stop working correctly and can be hazardous to your family's health. Signs of a refrigerant leak include hissing noises, ice buildup on the evaporator coils, and warm air blowing from the vents. If you suspect a refrigerant leak, contact a professional HVAC technician immediately.
Schedule Routine Maintenance
The eighth step to fix common AC problems is to schedule routine maintenance. The best way to prevent common AC problems is to schedule routine maintenance with a professional HVAC technician. They can inspect your AC unit, clean the coils, check for leaks, and ensure that it is running efficiently. Routine maintenance can also extend the life of your AC unit and save you money on energy bills.
Conclusion
AC problems can be frustrating and uncomfortable, but they are often easy to fix. Homeowners can take these eight steps to prevent and fix common AC problems. Remember to check the thermostat, clean or replace the air filter, check the circuit breaker, clean the condenser coils, check the fan blades, check for refrigerant leaks, and schedule routine maintenance. With these steps, you can ensure that your AC unit is running efficiently and effectively.
If your A/C isn’t working after trying these HVAC repairs at home, give Compass a call at 970-508-3402.
