The home’s air conditioning system tends to fail when you need it the most. Yes, that time when there’s too much heat, and you need something to blow some cool air into your skin. Well, this is also the time when you’ll easily notice that your AC system has a problem.
So, what do you do when your AC system doesn’t work? Don’t call a technician yet because sometimes diagnosing AC problems require a DIY project. Of Course, this applies to those problems with easy fixes.
So what are some AC problems, and how do you solve them? Here are a few AC tips to help you repair common problems without spending a fortune.
1. Blow Circuit Breaker or Fuse
Sometimes your AC problems can be as simple as blown circuit breakers or fuse that only need very easy fixes. But you must know for sure if this is the problem with your AC before you start any diagnosis. If you have a tripped breaker, your AC will refuse to turn on.
You’ll need to head to your home’s main electrical panel and check if your circuit breakers aren’t ‘ON.’ If it’s labeled, check the label of ‘AC’ or ‘Air Conditioner.’ If the label shows that it’s tripped, push it firmly into the ON position and try running it again.
After doing this, your AC might go back to its normal working state, or the breaker can trip again once the AC starts running. If it trips again, then this means the problem is not so simple, and you need a professional to work on the system.
2. Wrong Thermostat Setting
When the thermostat is not set to cool, your AC will not blow the cool air that you desire so much. You need to check if the thermostat is in the correct setting, which is, set to cool for summer temperature.
You should also ensure that the setting is at least three degrees below the ambient room temperature. If that’s not the case, you need to check if it’s set to ‘off’ or ‘heat.’ Set back your thermostat to AC mode and lower the setting of the temperature.
3. Blocked Condenser
Sometimes your AC will be running as required, but you can’t get the cooling effect. The main reason for this problem might be because something is blocking your air. This could be as a result of a blocked condenser.
Your condenser may be blocked by dirt, debris, grass, or tall weeds. Check to see if it’s dirty or any dirt is blocking it. If that’s the case, start removing the blockage, which you can do using a hose or a gentle setting.
If the condenser is covered with a thick layer of dirt, which will not be easy for you to remove, call a professional to do some deep cleaning.
4. Diagnosing AC Problems in the Capacitor
The run capacitor is the big compressor units outside the house, sometimes placed on the roof. This is the boost that starts the condenser and fun, and if it’s spoiled, your home’s cooling will be doomed. You need to make sure the problem is your capacitor and not the contactor to start this diagnosis.
One indication of a capacitor problem is a click followed by a buzz or hum. This means your fan motor is attempting to start, but the boost from the capacitor is not enough to do it. There’s no doubt that your capacitor would have failed.
An easier solution is to get the compressor fan to spin by pushing with a thin stick. This will only work for a circle before the capacitor fails again once you switch on the AC. One permanent solution to this is to replace the capacitor.
5. Problem in the Refrigeration System
When your AC is running as it should, but you notice that the air being blown is not cold, you might have a problem with your refrigeration system. The problem could be with low refrigerant levels. The low levels can be a result of leaks causing the problem over time.
You need to check on the lines and recharge your system. Call a professional to do the AC repair because problems with the refrigerant system could be quite complicated for an amateur.
6. Disconnected Panel
Sometimes your air conditioner problems may be as a result of disconnected wires. If you suspect that this may be the case, you need to inspect the inside of the access panel. Make sure the power is off before starting the inspection. Carefully remove the access-panel retaining screws and then remove the panel.
Check if the parts inside have rodent nests or chewed wires. If you find chewed or broken wires, discharge the capacitor and start repairing the wires and cleaning the nests. If you’re not sure about what you’re doing, it’s best to call a professional.
7. Ice Blockage
Sometimes ice in the air handler can stop your AC system from working as intended. Reduced airflow or low refrigerant levels can cause the air conditioning unit to freeze. If it’s the refrigerant level, then call a pro to refill.
If the problem is reduced airflow to the system, check and see what’s blocking the air. Clean your filter and coils and see if the airflow improves. Also, make sure you run the unit with just the fun and melt off the ice.
Restoring Your AC System Is Simple
Diagnosing AC problems is very simple as long as you can figure out the cause of the problem. Some solutions are as simple as doing some cleanups, while some require a professional touch.
Sometimes your unit might be too old that you should consider doing a replacement rather than constant repairs. Make sure you only check the most reliable models in the market when you finally consider upgrading your unit. This could save you from any future problems, such as consistent fixes.
Whether you need to repair, upgrade, or seek professional services to help with your AC problems, we will be here to help you out. Contact us through phone, text message, or email for all your AC questions and find reliable answers.