6 AIR CONDITIONER TROUBLESHOOTING TIPS THAT WESTCHESTER & PUTNAM COUNTY HOMEOWNERS NEED TO KNOW
As the summer heat intensifies, a well-functioning air conditioner becomes more than just a luxury – it's a necessity. But what happens when your trusty AC unit starts acting up? Before you panic, there are some troubleshooting tips you can try to resolve common air conditioner issues. Below, we'll share six tips every Westchester & Putnam County homeowner should know to keep their cooling system running efficiently and effectively throughout the sweltering summer months. So grab a notepad, and let's dive in!
1. Check your thermostat settings.
One common cause of AC malfunctions is an incorrectly set thermostat. You'd be surprised how many people accidentally bump the controls or have a little one at home who changes the settings without anyone realizing it. Ensure that the set temperature is lower than the current room temperature. Also, make sure that the thermostat is switched to the cool or air-conditioning mode. If it's only set to “on,” the system's fan will run, but your AC will not actively cool your home's indoor air.
Is your thermostat acting strangely?
If it takes batteries, it's probably time to replace them.
If it's a Wi-Fi thermostat, ensure it's connected to your home's network and has the latest software installed. This can help get rid of “bugs.”
2. See if your air filter should be replaced.
A dirty air filter can obstruct airflow, create cooling issues, and ultimately lead to an AC breakdown. Check on the filter every 30 days, and replace it every 30 to 60 days for maximum efficiency during periods of heavy use.
3. Check for power supply issues.
Your air conditioner might not be getting power because of a tripped circuit breaker or a blown fuse. Check that the circuit breakers associated with your AC’s indoor and outdoor units are switched on. You should also check that the power switch to your outdoor unit is turned on. The switch is most likely in a small box next to the unit on the side of your house.
4. Clear debris from around the external unit (condenser).
Sometimes debris like leaves, sticks, and grass clippings trap heat against your outdoor unit, affecting its efficiency. Make sure to clear away anything that might obstruct the external unit. If you're growing a hedge to block your AC unit from view, give the equipment at least one foot of horizontal clearance—two feet is preferable because it makes your unit easier for a technician to service.
5. Inspect the air vents.
Your home should have several supply vents (which deliver cool air to your living space) and at least one return vent (which pulls in air from your living space to be cooled). If something blocks the vents, like boxes, furniture, curtains, or a rug, airflow issues could impact your AC's performance.
6. Look for signs of a frozen evaporator coil.
A frozen evaporator coil could result from various issues, including a low refrigerant level, a faulty blower, or restricted airflow. If you find ice buildup on your indoor AC unit, turn off the system and let it thaw for several hours. Check to see if a clogged air filter was the culprit. If it wasn't, you should call an HVAC technician to inspect your system for problems like a malfunctioning blower or low refrigerant levels.
I Tried All of This. What Now?
If your air conditioner still isn't running properly after trying the troubleshooting tips above, it's time to call the professionals at Robison. A certified technician can diagnose and repair any issues you may have missed or overlooked. In addition, they can help you prevent future problems by performing routine maintenance on your system and replacing worn-out components.
AC REPAIR IN WESTCHESTER & PUTNAM COUNTIES
We hope you found this post useful and that it helps you keep your AC running smoothly all summer long! If you have any questions or need help with your air conditioning system, get in touch with our experienced HVAC technicians today at Robison. We’re here to assist with all of your cooling needs! Call (914) 345-5700 or use our online form.
Do you need an AC repair in Westchester or Putnam County? Our reliable team at Robison is ready to assist: (914) 345-5700.
