Can’t Keep the House Cool? 5 Troubleshooting Tips for Your AC

Summer is just around the corner! You know what that means. It’s time to pull out the pool floaties, start making some lemonade, and brush up on your grilling skills. 😎 Oh, and it is time to turn on the AC.

But if your air conditioner isn’t cooling down the house, you may be looking at a big – and expensive – project. But before you start to panic, know that you have options. In fact, there are some AC troubleshooting tips that you can quickly implement to fix the problem and get back to enjoying the summer.

In today’s post, we’re going to help you understand:

• Why your AC isn’t working
• Tips to fix the problem
• How to maintain your HVAC system throughout the year
• When to call in a professional HVAC technician

Ready to learn more? Keep reading.

Signs Your AC Isn’t Working

It can take some time to realize that your air conditioning unit isn’t working or that it isn’t working efficiently. Spotting a problem early is a great way to make sure that it gets fixed before the damage grows.

Are you wondering if your air conditioning system is functioning properly? Here are some key signs your air conditioner may be broken.

• Broken Thermostat – Are you constantly trying to adjust your thermostat so that rooms are an appropriate temperature? You might be dealing with a broken thermostat. Not only does this take away your ability to control your temperature, but it also means that your system cannot regulate itself.
• No Air Out of Vents – Walk over to your air vents and hold your hand up to them. Is any air coming out? If not, you may have to call on a professional to check your AC unit.
• Musty Odors – The unfortunate truth is that your HVAC system can be a breeding ground for mold and mildew growth. If you notice unpleasant, musty odors coming from your heating and cooling vents, there may be a mold problem within your air conditioner.
• Loud Noises – Are you greeted by strange, loud noises every time you switch your air conditioner system on? It’s possible that there is a mechanical issue or that a part has gotten loose.

5 Troubleshooting Tips

If you are an avid DIY-er, it’s possible that you are interested in trying to fix your air conditioner on your own. The good news is that there are definitely some tricks that the average homeowner can try before calling in an HVAC technician. Here are our top tips for AC troubleshooting.

1) Change the Air Filter

The air filter is a central part of your entire air conditioning system. However, if it isn’t regularly replaced, it can cause a whole host of issues, including low airflow, leaks, and inadequate cooling. Luckily, changing the air filter is a task that anyone can do! A new filter can be purchased at your local hardware store. Be sure to refer to the manufacturer’s instructions about when you should replace your filter in the future.

Another plus? Getting rid of a dirty filter can help you to breathe easier, which is a particular concern if you struggle with respiratory issues, such as asthma and allergies.

2) Check the Circuit Breaker

Many of us have been in a position where a device in our home won’t work, and we jump straight to panic. More often than not, though, the culprit? Our circuit breaker.

When a breaker gets flipped, it can make it seem like your entire HVAC system has broken down. Before you reach for your phone to call a professional, we recommend checking your breaker box to make sure that you are not dealing with a tripped circuit breaker.

3) Clean Clogged Air Vents

If you aren’t feeling cool air come through your air vents, it might be an issue with the mechanics of your air conditioner. However, the solution could be much simpler than you think.

Over time, dust, pet hair, and other materials can collect in your air vents and form a blockage that stops cool air from blowing into your room. By removing the vent covers, you may be able to clean some of the material that is blocking airflow. However, keep in mind that if the blockage extends deep into your ducts, you may need to call in a professional for an in-depth vent cleaning.

4) Double Check Thermostat

Look. We get it. There’s nothing more annoying than having computer problems and hearing someone say, “did you try turning it off and turning it on again?” However, bear with us because we are about to do the HVAC equivalent.

Before you start any major repairs, be sure to double-check your thermostat settings. Make sure that you have it set to “cool” instead of “heat” or “off.”

5) Look At the Outdoor Condensing Unit

If none of the previous solutions are working, you may want to check your outdoor unit to see if there is anything causing the unit itself to jam or be blocked. It’s also possible that any dirt or dust that has collected over the year could be causing it to function less optimally. You can easily clear this by gently spraying it with a garden hose.

AC Maintenance Tips

Want to make sure that your AC unit continues to function all year round? Implement these maintenance tips to keep it in tip-top shape.

• Keep It Clear – Making sure that you keep the area around your outdoor unit clear of any grass, leaves, or other debris will help ensure that you don’t have any blockages to your system.
• Regularly Change Filters – As we’ve mentioned, dirty filters can have a huge impact on the overall efficiency of your system, as well as the air quality in your home. Making sure to change your air filters every few months will protect your AC system.
• Schedule Tune-Ups – Many HVAC companies offer seasonal tune-ups that keep your machinery working all year long. Working with a professional can help you spot problems before they start and save you money.

Get Help From an HVAC Professional

Have air conditioner problems that you can’t fix by yourself? Aquarius Home Services is here to help! Our team of trusty heating and cooling specialists will be able to quickly diagnose your problem and offer you solutions that work with your lifestyle and budget. Contact us today to schedule your repair service.