There’s nothing worse than your AC breaking down in the middle of summer. The key to getting AC problems resolved quickly is understanding the issue. It may turn out to be just a simple fix, but even if it’s not, knowing what’s wrong will help point your HVAC technician in the right direction. Here are the three most common AC problems in the home and what to do about them.
- AC won’t turn on. You’ve turned on the AC but nothing is happening. First, check the circuit breaker and reset it if necessary. Then, see if the thermostat is on. If not, replace the batteries. If it is on, check that it’s in cooling mode. Then try turning it down a few degrees to see if the system kicks in. Your home’s ambient temperature might be lower than your target temperature, or the thermostat may need to be recalibrated.
- AC won’t turn off. Your AC runs, but it won’t stop blowing, which wastes energy. First, check your HVAC air filter and replace it if it’s clogged. If the air flowing through your system is restricted, it won’t be able to cool your home properly, so the unit will keep running. Next, turn the thermostat up a few degrees to see if it stops when your target temperature matches the ambient temperature. If not, there may be wiring problems, or you may need to reset your thermostat. If the system is blowing warm air, check the fan setting and make sure it’s set to “Auto” rather than “On.”
- AC is short cycling. Your unit turns on and off quickly, over and over. This is one of the AC problems that not only wastes energy, it will wear out your unit more quickly. Plus, it can make your home clammy and uncomfortable. If your evaporator coil is also freezing, it may mean a refrigerant leak. It could also indicate compressor problems, a clogged filter, leaking ductwork, or that your system is too big for your home.
For help with all your AC problems, contact us at Mowery Heating, Cooling and Plumbing. We bring quality heating and cooling solutions to the Indianapolis area.
