Common Air Conditioning Troubleshooting Tips

Keep Your AC Unit Running Smoothly this Summer 

In the middle of a hot summer, no one wants to have issues with their air conditioning unit. However, these high-use periods are exactly when problems are most likely to occur. Air conditioners are complex systems that can last a long time if well looked after but can be expensive to repair if issues are left unaddressed for too long. That is why it is so important to check your AC unit often and quickly address any concerns. By understanding what to look for and when it is the right time to call a qualified HVAC expert to come in and service your unit, you can save yourself from unwanted hassle, expensive bills and, of course, the summer heat!

5 Ways to Troubleshoot Your Air Conditioning Unit

If you notice any irregularities with how your AC unit is operating, there are a few simple steps you can take. These troubleshooting techniques quickly rule out easy fixes that you can do yourself without having to book an HVAC service. Here are 5 simple ways to check your AC unit for issues: 

• Thermostat: The simplest first step in trying to figure out why an air conditioning unit might not be working properly is to check the thermostat. Make sure all the settings are correct. Sometimes this will save you the expense of having a technician come to the house. If you have not already considered it, now may also be the time to upgrade to a smart thermostat which can save you money on heating and cooling, while making it easier to troubleshoot improper settings.
• Air filters: Clogged air filters are one of the more common reasons that AC units have trouble working. They are easy to forget about but very important for ensuring a cooling unit is running smoothly. If the filters get too clogged, they can lead to reduced air flow in a unit. This will not only reduce its ability to cool properly, but also puts unwanted strain on its systems, leading to expensive repairs if not quickly addressed. A good way to know if your air filters need to be replaced is to look for reduced air flow, ice gathering on refrigeration lines, climbing electricity bills and water starting to leak from the unit. 
• Circuit breakers: If your AC is not making the house any cooler, there is a good chance that it simply is not turning on. A flipped circuit in the unit’s breaker will stop it from working until manually switched back to the on position. The cause of a circuit breaker being tripped may not necessarily be related to the AC unit’s running, but if it happens more than once, do not try flipping the switch again. There may be a larger issue with the unit that requires a technician to come and examine the problem. 
• Outdoor unit: Simply because it is outdoors, the exterior part of an AC unit is constantly exposed to dust, debris and other factors which may impact its performance. If you are finding your house is not as cool as it is should be or that your electricity bills are surprisingly high, it is a good idea to inspect your outdoor unit. Look for things like debris caught in the vents or obstructions which might reduce airflow. Returning it to optimal functionality may be as simple as giving the unit a good clean. 
• Air vents: There are usually a lot of vents to keep track of in a house and this makes it easy for things like rugs, furniture, or curtains to cover them. Over time, obstructed vents can put excess strain on an AC system, not only reducing its ability to properly cool a home but also risking blowing out the motor or damaging its compressor. Before calling a technician, do a walkthrough of your home to make sure all the vents are properly opened and not covered by anything which may block circulation.

While you may troubleshoot simple issues like the above, the best way to avoid problems is to regularly have your AC serviced by a trained, experienced HVAC specialist. When you move into a new house or install an HVAC unit, be sure to carefully read the warranty, which usually recommends a minimum amount of service appointments to keep your system working smoothly for its lifespan. By following these guidelines and quickly responding to any issues that may arise, you can ensure you get the most mileage out of your AC system. 

At Comfort Solutions, our HVAC experts bring years of skill and training to every job. Our clients know they can depend on us for reliable AC repair and maintenance services in PA and NJ. If your AC unit is experiencing problems, we can respond quickly to ensure everything is back up and running in no time.

Keep your AC unit running smoothly this summer by calling the HVAC experts at Comfort Solutions. Call us at 610-438-9300 or contact us online to schedule an appointment.