How to Troubleshoot Common AC Issues on Hot Summer Days

Nothing is worse than dealing with a broken air conditioning unit during sweltering hot summer days. Knowing how to troubleshoot common AC issues can save you from potential discomfort and an expensive emergency ac repair in Cape Girardeau. This blog post will discuss some of the most frequent AC problems homeowners face. Keep reading to find out how to fix your AC issues and stay cool all summer!

Clogged Air Filter

A clogged air filter is one of the most common reasons for a malfunctioning air conditioning unit. When your air filter becomes dirty or clogged, it blocks the airflow, which can cause your AC unit to work harder and ultimately lead to poor cooling.

What to do:

To fix this problem, you can replace the air filter yourself. Start by turning off the unit and locating the filter, usually behind a return air grille or the unit’s front panel. Remove the old filter and replace it with a new one. Turn your AC back on and enjoy improved cooling. It’s recommended to change the air filter at least once every 1-3 months, depending on your usage.

Refrigerant Leak

If your AC unit is not cooling as well as it used to, there may be a refrigerant leak. Refrigerant is the substance that your AC system uses to cool the air; without it, your AC can’t perform its job properly.

What to do:

Detecting a refrigerant leak is a challenging task for an untrained individual. It is advised to call a professional HVAC technician to identify and repair the leak, recharge the system with the correct amount of refrigerant, and ensure that your AC is working properly.

Dirty Condenser Coils

The condenser coils are an essential part of your AC system, releasing the heat the refrigerant has absorbed from your home’s air. However, when the coils get dirty, they become less efficient at dispersing heat, causing your unit to work harder to keep your home cool.

What to do:

To clean the condenser coils, first, turn off your AC unit. Next, using a coil brush or vacuum cleaner, gently remove dirt, debris, and other contaminants from the coils. For more thorough cleaning, use a commercial coil cleaner. Spray the cleaner on the coils and allow it to work for a few minutes. Then, rinse the coils with water, let them dry, and turn your AC back on.

Faulty Thermostat

A faulty thermostat can be another reason for a malfunctioning AC unit. If the thermostat isn’t correctly calibrated, it won’t signal your system to turn on and maintain the desired temperature.

What to do:

First, check if your thermostat display is working. If not, try replacing the batteries and see if that fixes the problem. If the display is fine, verify that the temperature settings are correct and in cooling mode. If the issue persists, you may need to call an expert to help recalibrate or replace the thermostat.

Tripped Breaker or Blown Fuse

If your AC system doesn’t turn on at all, you might have a tripped circuit breaker or blown fuse.

What to do:

Go to your home’s electrical panel and find the breaker that controls your AC unit. Switch it back to the “on” position if it is tripped. If the breaker trips again, it’s time to call a professional, as there may be an underlying electrical issue. For blown fuses, you’ll need to replace them with new ones.

Whenever in doubt, always consult a professional HVAC technician to diagnose and fix the issue. This will ensure your AC operates at peak efficiency and keeps you cool throughout the hot summer days. Stay cool and enjoy the comfort of your home!