Calling an AC repair company promptly has many benefits, but there are a few things you can check first. You may find you don’t need a professional in the first place, saving time and money. Or, you can narrow down the possible issues. This can help one of Trilogy AC’s AC repair technicians diagnose and fix the underlying problem faster. To make things easier, here are seven things you should look for before requesting AC repair near you.
- Dirty Air Filter
- Thermostat Issue
- Tripped Circuit Breaker
- Switches Have Been Turned Off
- Clogged Drain Line
- Blocked Air Vents
- Obstructed Condenser Unit
1. Dirty Air Filter
The air filter is a simple yet crucial part of your air conditioning system. If it’s dirty or blocked, it can restrict airflow. Dirt and debris can also be sucked past the filter and get into AC components, causing performance issues and damage.
If you feel less airflow from the registers or find a frozen coil, check the filter. Replacing it doesn’t require a professional, and doing so can save energy and repair costs. The AC unit may even last longer.
2. Thermostat Issue
Your air conditioner won’t work right if the thermostat is set incorrectly. If your home isn’t cool enough, check that the system is in “Cool” mode. A thermostat set to “Heat” or “Off” won’t trigger your AC to provide cooling, leaving your home warmer than desired. Flipping the switch or changing the setting electronically can resolve the issue.
You can also avoid calling an AC repair company by checking the batteries. If the thermostat doesn’t light up, its digital screen is blank, or manually changing a setting yields no response from your HVAC unit, the battery may need to be replaced. Install a new battery; if the thermostat works again, you’ve avoided having to call for AC repair.
3. Tripped Circuit Breaker
A tripped circuit breaker is another reason your air conditioner may not work and something you can easily resolve yourself. If the AC unit still doesn’t work after checking the thermostat, look for the electrical panel and find the switch for your AC circuit. If it’s in the middle position, move it to the “Off” position, wait a few seconds, and flip it to the “On” position. You don’t need to call for an AC repair near you if the system starts running again.
However, if the breaker trips again soon after or does so repeatedly, consider calling a repair company. Your air conditioner may be overheating. Or, there may be surges, a short circuit, or another electrical problem.
4. Switches Have Been Turned Off
The outdoor unit and air handler each have a switch. If someone flips one of these switches accidentally or leaves it off without realizing it, the system won’t run. The solution is to turn the switch in question back on. If your AC works, you can breathe a sigh of relief and save time by not having to make an unnecessary phone call.
5. Clogged Drain Line
The condensate drain line directs moisture away from your HVAC system. It’s part of how your air conditioner removes humidity from the air. A clog can cause water to back up and damage your AC and home. To prevent this, a float switch or emergency cutoff trips when water in the drain line or drip pan reaches a certain level, stopping the unit from running.
Cleaning or flushing the drain line, if you’re able to, can resolve the problem. Call an AC repair company if you can’t clear the drain line or figure out what’s wrong.
6. Blocked Air Vents
A blocked vent can reduce your comfort even if your AC is working just fine. If you don’t feel cool, check the air vents around the room. Furniture, wall storage, boxes, and anything else can prevent cool air from blowing if the vent is blocked. Moving whatever is in front of the vent can cool down the room. Generally, HVAC vents should have about 1 to 2 feet of space around them.
7. Obstructed Condenser Unit
Leaves, twigs, branches, and other debris can collect on the outdoor unit. These can prevent air from moving in and out of the system. If debris or yard equipment is blocking the condenser, you certainly don’t need an AC repair company to fix the problem. Clearing obstructions away is enough to correct any cooling issues if there are no other problems with the system.
When to Call for AC Repair
Call for help if your air conditioner still doesn’t provide cool air. The problem will only get worse if you don’t. If the unit makes squealing, grinding, or rattling sounds, an internal component may need to be fixed, while foul odors, short cycling, or high energy bills can also signal a serious problem. Call an HVAC contractor to avoid more expensive repairs or an air conditioner breakdown.
Contact Us for AC Repair in Houston
When you can’t find a simple solution to get your air conditioner running again, Trilogy AC’s skilled technicians can diagnose and address the underlying issue. They can fix any problem, including a faulty thermostat, refrigerant leak, or malfunctioning compressor. We’re available to help in emergencies and guarantee customer satisfaction with AC repair and all of our air conditioner services. Contact us or call (832) 864-7573 to request an appointment.