…Make Sure Your AC Is Ready!
Please see our troubleshooting guidelines below to ensure maximum efficiency this summer from your air conditioner.
Power Up
If your air conditioning unit won’t turn on, there is likely an issue with its power source. You’ll want to check the outdoor cooling or condensing unit to see if it’s running. If not, make sure the main power switch for the outdoor unit is in the “on” position; the switch usually is a few feet from the unit inside a box mounted to your home’s exterior. If the switch is in the “on” position but the outdoor unit isn’t running, check your home’s circuit breaker or fuse box and reset the circuit.
Filter Out
When was the last time you changed out your AC filter? Your air conditioning unit may fail to operate properly if its filter is dirty. Buildup on the filter blocks airflow and causes the air conditioner to shut down. Examine the filter to see if there is any excess buildup that might be preventing it from cooling properly. The standard rule of thumb is If you use 1-inch-thick filters, they should be changed once a month, however with 2-inch or other high-capacity pleated filters, you can usually go every other month before swapping them out. In either case, you should check your filters for build-up due to poor air conditions and replace them monthly if necessary.
Please find links to recommended air filters below. Make sure to check your AC unit so you can purchase the properly sized filter.
Clear the Air
Is your AC unit running but you just don’t feel that chill in the air? Your air conditioner may not be cooling your home effectively as it could if the return-air grilles are blocked. The return-air grilles are large and usually located on the wall or ceiling in a new home. If your home is older, return-air grilles may be on the floor. You’ll want to make sure none of the grills are blocked by furniture, vases, picture frames, or any other items that can impede airflow. Dusting return-air grilles every other week so debris doesn’t collect along the openings and restrict the airflow is a good habit to begin as well.
Out of Service
If you’ve checked your air conditioning unit’s power, filters, and return-air grilles and it is still not cooling your home properly there may be an issue with the thermostat.
If there’s no improvement, or you feel the issue is with your thermostat, you should call a reliable HVAC contractor. Need expert help? Make sure to read the reviews when searching for an HVAC repair service in your area.