6 Ways Troubleshoot Common Air Conditioner Issues
Knowing how to troubleshoot your air conditioner in your Dexter, MO home is empowering. When small problems arise, you may be able to solve them on your own and without any out-of-pocket spending. However, it’s important to distinguish between issues that require professional attention and those that do not. To help, the following are six troubleshooting steps that homeowners can easily take by themselves.
1. Check Your AC Air Filter
Dirty air filters lie at the heart of countless AC problems. When build-ups of filter debris become too large, air conditioners have a hard time forcing air through them. Dirty air filters can lead to increased humidity, overheating, icing, short cycling, and uneven cooling. Make sure that your AC filter is clean, correctly sized, and properly installed. If this doesn’t solve your problem, contact a professional.
2. Verify That All HVAC Air Vents Are Open
Completely closing one or more air vents throughout your home isn’t a safe or effective way to customize the delivery of cooled air. Keeping HVAC air vents closed can cause excess pressure in your air ducts and a host of stress-related AC problems.
3. Reset the Circuit Breaker
If your AC won’t turn on, reset its circuit breaker. If resetting the breaker only temporarily solves the problem, you may have a wiring issue or other electrical problem that requires professional attention.
4. Check Your Thermostat Settings
If your thermostat is set to the “FAN” setting, your air conditioner’s fan will blow air throughout your home, but its cooling cycle will never engage. Turning it to “AUTO” will allow the cooling process to begin every time your living environment becomes warmer than your preferred temperature setting.
5. Clear Your HVAC Air Vents
HVAC air filters aren’t the only place where problematic obstructions can form. If your air registers, vents, or grilles are covered in thick layers of debris, your air conditioner is probably having a hard time circulating cool air. Wipe these features down with a clean damp cloth to ensure adequate airflow.
6. Make Sure Your AC Condenser Isn’t Obstructed
Leaves, branches, and overgrown shrubs can block airflow at your air conditioner’s outdoor condenser. Clear any obstructions around this unit’s perimeter. It should have at least two feet of clearance on all sides.
If you’ve tried these troubleshooting measures to no avail, give us a call. Tampering with your air conditioner’s moving components could void its warranty. Moreover, without brand and model-specific training, homeowners run the risk of causing far more problems than they solve.
Since 1974, we’ve been proudly serving homeowners in Dexter, Missouri and the surrounding communities. We can handle all of your air conditioner, heat pump, and heater installation, maintenance, and repair needs. We also offer generators, water heaters, and indoor air quality solutions. To schedule repairs, call Carlos Warren & Son now.
