It can be hard when you discover your AC isn’t working, especially in the hot, humid Texas summer. If you feel your AC isn’t functioning properly, it’s important to diagnose the problem and get it fixed as soon as possible. ETR, a trusted AC repair company in Texas, has seen it all with HVAC problems.
In a humid place like East Texas, a home without an efficiently running AC can become uncomfortably and even dangerously hot—especially for babies and older people—and you can also develop mold and/or mildew.
Mold and mildew can cause damage in multiple ways and pose a health risk to you and your family. These common fungi can grow and spread rapidly, so quickly repairing your AC is important.
If you suspect an issue, the best course of action is to contact an AC repair company to work with experienced AC techs with state-of-the-art products and diagnostic equipment who prioritize your safety and security and will get the job done right.
But first things first: Your AC isn’t working right. Here’s a list of things to look for to diagnose an AC problem before you call a trusted HVAC company for a fix.
1. Check the AC Filter
Changing or cleaning your AC’s air filter is one of the most important details of keeping your AC running properly.
Your AC filter makes it possible for the whole unit to function like it should. As with most filters, the purpose of your air conditioner filter is to protect the unit from dirt, dust, and other debris.
If the filter isn’t cleaned and replaced regularly, it can impact your whole unit. Your AC needs proper airflow to function. The air filter helps make that possible.
Your AC filter might need maintenance if:
- You notice less airflow from the vents.
- The air is not cooling properly.
- You notice your AC turning on and off more frequently.
If you don’t know how to clean your AC or change the filters, consult the manual for guidelines. If you’re still unsure, contact a nearby AC repair company and have them do an inspection.
2.Check the Programmable Thermostat Settings
First, make sure someone else in the household hasn’t changed your thermostat settings. You’d be surprised how often this is the culprit for a “broken AC.”
Sometimes, power outages or other electrical disturbances can impact the thermostat settings. This is relatively rare, but if you find your AC not working properly after an outage, it’s a good idea to make sure it’s set where you want it.
If you try to fix your thermostat settings but aren’t successful after consulting a manual, consult your local HVAC tech for troubleshooting ideas and other assistance.
3.Check the Circuit Breaker
A circuit breaker or fuse box might get tripped for many reasons, but if you notice your AC isn’t turning on, checking to ensure the circuit breaker hasn’t tripped is an excellent place to start.
If you see that the breaker for the AC is “Off,” firmly push it into the “On” position and check to see if the unit turns on.
If it does, you’re good to go (although if it trips again soon, you’ll need to investigate what’s causing it to trip.)
If it doesn’t turn back on, you must contact your local AC repair company and have it checked out.
4.Check the Outside AC Unit
Like the air filter, the vents on an outside unit can easily become clogged with dirt, dust, and especially debris from trees.
Perform regular upkeep on the area around your unit to make sure overgrowth isn’t causing problems. In addition, make sure you have a trusted local HVAC company perform regular maintenance to ensure your AC is clean and works properly.
5.A Few Other Things to Check
- Check vents and ductwork to ensure they haven’t become blocked or disconnected.
- Check the coils to make sure they’re not iced over. (If they are, make sure to thaw them and then seek the source of why they were frozen.)
- Make sure the condenser isn’t blocked.
While an air conditioner problem might be frustrating, they’re generally a simple fix and won’t lead to needing a new air conditioner.
Making sure to schedule regular maintenance with a local HVAC company can go a long way in preventing problems from occurring. Contact an AC repair company in Texas today and ensure your unit is in top working order.