These AC Troubleshooting Tips Will Come in Handy This Summer

A few AC troubleshooting hints might help restore cooling to your home on a hot day. In some cases, it might be a simple matter that the average do-it-yourselfer could handle alone. Many times, however, issues with the central air conditioner require the technology and experience of a certified professional HVAC technician. In that event, your basic AC troubleshooting may come in handy to quickly and accurately inform the technician what’s going on.

Here are a few things to examine and take note of when it comes to AC troubleshooting, whether you’re dealing with a minor glitch or a major malfunction:

• Double-check the thermostat. It’s a no-brainer, but it does happen: Confirm that the AC is turned on at the thermostat and that the correct time and proper thermostat setting are displayed.
• Visit the breaker panel. At the home’s circuit breaker panel, look for the AC breaker, which is usually labeled. (It’s often a double switch: two switches linked together as a pair.) If it’s not tripped, power isn’t the problem. However, if the breaker is tripped, reset it by switching it all the way off and back on again. Then see if the AC starts. If the circuit breaker trips again, leave it in the off position and call for professional HVAC service.
• Sample airflow. If the unit’s running, feel the air flowing out of supply vents in rooms. If it seems weak compared to the norm, check the system air filter. Replace a dirty filter and then check the airflow again. If there’s no improvement, be sure to mention it to the service technician.
• Test the temperature. While you’re checking AC airflow, how cool is it? If it’s blowing warm or perhaps simply not up to normal standards of coolness, take note of this pertinent fact.
• Monthly costs. If the cost of keeping the house cool has recently increased notably — and there’s no other obvious explanation, such as utility-rate increases — share this fact with the HVAC service tech. It may help point the way to specific correctable issues.

For prompt, professional AC troubleshooting, contact Energy 1 Heating & Air Conditioning.