A/C Troubleshooting Tips That May Come in Handy This Summer

August 11, 2014
Blog

ac repairYou may not give much thought to your cooling system… until it stops working. While routine annual maintenance can prevent most issues from popping up, you may still experience any of the more common A/C problems from time to time. Here are some A/C troubleshooting tips to keep close at hand, some of which you may be able to address yourself, while others require the services of a professional.

  • Inadequate cooling. If your A/C is unable to achieve the desired level of comfort, begin by lowering your thermostat an additional five degrees. If that doesn’t solve the issue, the evaporator may be dirty; clean it carefully and let the A/C run for several hours. If these solutions don’t work, the air conditioning system may be inadequately sized for your home, and may need to be replaced.
  • A malfunctioning condenser. Start by checking the power supply, beginning with the plug. From there, check the main breaker and fuse, restoring power if needed. Next check the thermostat, lowering it by a further five degrees to see if the A/C comes to life – if not, the compressor or motor may needprofessional repair.
  • The A/C frequently cycles off and on. Dirt may be the culprit, either on the condenser or evaporator coil, and a good cleaning may solve the problem. Check to ensure the outside condensing unit isn’t blocked by tall grass or other foliage, allowing for at least three feet of clearance on all sides and above the unit.
  • The A/C runs but doesn’t produce cold air. Start with the thermostat, though it’s unlikely to be the cause. Examine the condensing unit to see if it’s blocked or dirty, cleaning or removing debris if necessary. A lack of refrigerant or a malfunctioning compressor may be at fault, both of which require the services of a skilled HVAC contractor.

For more help with A/C troubleshooting tips, or the service, repair or maintenance of your HVAC system, call the experts at Keith Air Conditioning, Inc. proudly serving homeowners in Baldwin County and Mobile.