Air Conditioning Troubleshooting Tips To Repair Your A/C

The heat is sweltering outside and you can't wait to get inside to your cool home, only your home isn't cool at all and feels more like a sauna. Would you know what to do in this situation? You could pick up the phone to call a service technician right away and save you some time, but you may end up spending money on something that could be a quick repair you can handle all on your own. Even if you don't know anything at all about HVAC, there are a few things you can check yourself before you make the phone call to a service company. Read on for a few troubleshooting tips to try on your own before making the repair call.

Check Your Electricity

You could have had a power issue that caused your fuse to blow. Check the fuse box to see if any of the breakers were popped. Press the fuse back in and listen for your air conditioner to turn back on. You may have to make an adjustment to the thermostat to make it turn on just to be sure this was the problem or the only problem. If the fuse wasn't the problem, check that the system didn't get turned off somehow. Check that the power is turned to the on position on the condensing unit. Also check that the power is on to your thermostat, and that it is set to cool. 

Check Your Air Filter

A clogged air filter can be the cause of your hot home. If the air filter is clogged, air will not get to the system and it could cause it to freeze up. When this happens, simply changing the air filter will not be the only answer. You will also need to let the system thaw out by turning off the air conditioner and run your furnace to the "fan" setting to help thaw your system. Your air filter should be changed every month. Give yourself a reminder on your smart phone to help you remember to change this filter - it isn't something you usually remember until you have a problem.

Check The Condensing Unit

The exterior unit could have an issue with air flow and it could cause the system to seize up. Check that the unit has a clear area surrounding it and doesn't have landscaping or other debris blocking the flow of air. Also check the fins to be sure they aren't clogged with lawn clippings or other air-borne debris. If they are, spray down the unit to get rid of this debris to give your system more airflow. 

If your home feels more like a sauna, you may need to do a little troubleshooting of your own before you call an air conditioning service technician. If you have tried the above-mentioned and are still having a problem, it's time to call in the pros.