You don’t want to be caught off guard this summer with an AC that breaks down when you most need it. A broken AC system can impact your overall comfort drastically and possibly even your health. In this guide, we share the essential steps to take when your AC stops working.
What Steps Should You Take When Your AC Stops Working
There are a few important steps you can take when dealing with a broken air conditioning unit. While DIY is never recommended, there are some steps you can take before a professional air conditioning technician arrives to repair your AC.
1. Check Your Thermostat
One of the first steps you should take when your AC is not working efficiently is to check your thermostat. Sometimes it is set incorrectly which is why you’re having issues. If the thermostat is set to the correct temperature but your AC still isn’t working, it may be time to call in a professional.
2. Get Your Electrical Panel Checked
You can always check to see if there is possibly a fault, which has caused your electrical panel to trip. A tripped electrical circuit could indicate there are more serious faults with your homes electrical wiring. Irrespective of the cause, only a professional technician can identify the issue and advise you on the next steps to take.
3. Replace Your Filters
Clogged AC filters can impact how well your AC works and can also cause your system to stop working. AC filter replacement can be done as part of your regular cv. Keep in mind that if you have pets, you may need to change your filters more regularly as pet dander can contribute to clogging up your filters faster.
4. Clear Your Condenser Unit
Depending on where it is located, you may want to head outdoors to clear away debris that could be blocking the airflow and hindering the cooling process. Remove all twigs, leaves, and other obstructions to ensure that your AC can work without issue.
5. Refrigerant Leaks
If you suspect that your unit is impacted by a refrigerant leak, it’s best to call in a licensed HVAC technician to inspect the unit. You should not do any testing or checks on your own due to the toxicity and flammability of refrigerants. A trained professional will have the necessary tools and equipment to safely detect any potential leaks as well as repair or replace components as required.
6. Have the Capacitor Tested
This is another check best left to the professionals. Your capacitor is one of the most important components of your AC unit, it serves as a storage point for electrical energy which in turn provides power to the motors. An HVAC technician will need to test to see if your capacitor is still in working order without any faults. ??????
Can I Repair My AC Unit?
Understandably, you may sometimes feel like DIY-ing may be more cost-effective than hiring the services of a professional. Except, that doesn’t apply when it comes to AC repair. Aside from clearing the outside of your condenser unit, or replacing the filter, attempting any AC repair without the proper training, knowledge, and experience can be extremely dangerous. You would be putting your safety at risk when dealing with electrical components, exposing yourself to the risk of electrical burns or worse electrocution.
DIY repairs also run the risk of voiding warranties, energy inefficiency caused by improper repairs, and even potential damage to the AC unit which could require more costly repairs or replacement.
Call In A Licensed and Reputable AC Technician
Nobody wants to experience an AC breakdown, especially right before summer. Knowing what steps to take can help you reduce the impact of a broken AC to some extent. Remember, seeking professional assistance from the start is not only a safer option but also more cost-effective in the long run. Professional air conditioning companies will also ensure their technicians are licensed and insured.
You can never predict when your AC will need repairs, so it’s always advised to get regular preventative maintenance and AC tune-ups from your local professional air conditioning company.
At Art Plumbing, Air Conditioning & Electric our group of certified and experienced HVAC technicians will do their best to provide reliable and expert air conditioning repair services.