Air conditioners are essential to keep your home cool and comfortable during the hot summer months. But what happens when your AC unit suddenly stops working? There can be any number of reasons for the issue, and troubleshooting the problem on your own can feel daunting.
Clay’s Climate Control has a team of experienced and professional HVAC technicians who can help. Whether you need simple maintenance or more technical air conditioning services, our team has the know-how to handle it. In the meantime, there’s no need to sit on your hands and worry. There are several steps you can take to troubleshoot the issue yourself.
Check the Thermostat
Checking the settings on the thermostat should always be your first step. Sometimes it’s as simple as the knob getting knocked to the fan setting, and you may simply need to set it back. Make sure the thermostat is set to “cool” and that the actual temperature is lower than the current temperature in the room.
Check the Air Filter
The air filter plays a vital role in the efficiency of your AC unit. A dirty or clogged filter can result in restricted air flow and prevent your unit from working as efficiently as it would otherwise. If the air filter is dirty or clogged, replace it with a new one. General recommendations are to replace your air filter every three months, but it may need to be changed more frequently if you have pets or someone with allergies.
Inspect the Condenser Unit
The condenser unit is the outdoor component of your AC system. If the unit isn’t functioning correctly, you may not get any cold air inside. Check to make sure that the condenser unit is clean and free from debris. You can use a garden hose to clean it, but be sure to turn it off first! Otherwise, you could have a bigger AC repair issue on your hands.
Check the Refrigerant Levels
Refrigerant is the substance that cools the air in your AC unit. Without enough refrigerant in the system, it can’t cool the air. Checking the levels may be a job best left to the professionals. If you suspect refrigerant levels are causing the issue, call Clay’s Climate Control and we’ll send a technician out to investigate.
Check for Leaks
Leaks in the refrigerant lines can cause your AC unit to stop blowing cold air. Leaks can occur for many reasons, including basic wear and tear, improper installation, or accidental damage.
Check the Ductwork
The ductwork in your home is responsible for distributing cooled air. If there are leaks or obstructions in it, the cold air may not be able to reach you. Inspect the ductwork for signs of damage or blockages. You’ll likely need to call a professional for AC repair or to replace damaged ductwork, but knowing about the issue helps us move faster.
Schedule Regular Maintenance
The best way to keep your AC unit running smoothly is to have it serviced regularly. Preventative maintenance can catch potential issues before they become major problems, prolonging the life of your unit and saving you money on repairs. The general recommendation is a professional maintenance appointment for your AC unit at least once per year.
If your AC unit stops working in the middle of the summer, the issue can be more than uncomfortable. Depending on the weather and where you live unregulated heat can become a life-threatening emergency. You can start by troubleshooting the issue on your own, even if you can’t solve it yourself.
Clay’s Climate Control is the number one HVAC contractor in the South Jersey area. We’ve been serving residents in the surrounding areas for over 20 years. In that time, we’ve built a reputation for excellence with our professional services and knowledgeable staff. If you’d like to learn more about our air conditioning services, give us a call at 609-619-1106.
