Updated Nov 20, 2021

AC Repair Troubleshooting Tips For Summer

As the weather warms up, it’s time for homeowners across the nation to start preparing their air conditioning units to get them ready for the coming heatwaves. Unfortunately, many homeowners are disappointed to find that their AC units are not functioning properly after the long winter months. There are a few simple steps you can take to troubleshoot your air conditioning unit before you call for the repairman.

1. Check for Power

Due to the high power draw of most air conditioning units, they are typically protected by several fuses and breakers to cut them off in case of an emergency. If the unit will not power on, check your breaker box and the fuse panel to determine if either of these has been tripped since the last time the unit was operated.

2. Check the Fan

If there is no problem with the power, or if a breaker continues to trip over and over after you have reset it, it is time to take a look at the actual air conditioner to determine what is causing the problem. If the fan is not kicking on at all, it can be a sign that the thermostat is not properly functioning, or it could be that there is damage to the control unit inside the box. These types of repairs are best handled by a professional AC company such as Howard Air.

3. Check the Pump

Air conditioning units use pumps to get rid of condensation that builds up inside the case. If too much water collects internally, an overflow valve will shut the unit down to prevent damage. Check to see if the pump is running or if there is sitting water inside the unit.

4. Check the Temperature Drop

If all of the components of the unit appear to be working normally, but you are still not seeing results, it may be an issue with the refrigerant. Just like a car’s cooling system, your AC unit may need to be recharged for the best cooling results. This is typically not a job that can be done by yourself, so a professional will need to come out and make sure the correct refrigerant and pressure are used to restore the unit to full functionality.

With these four steps, most homeowners will be able to determine whether or not their air conditioner needs repairs. The simplest step is always checking to make sure there is power getting to the unit. From there, isolating individual components that are not working properly will help narrow down the issue.

In most cases, anything more involved than a breaker or fuse will require the attention of a trained professional who has the tools and knowledge necessary to make a repair.

Contact Howard Air in Phoenix, AZ Today!

Howard Air provides air conditioning troubleshooting and repair services in the Phoenix, AZ area. Our experienced team is dedicated to providing fast and reliable service, with a focus on same-day problem-solving. We carry parts from most major manufacturers in stock to get your unit back up and running before you have to suffer through another day of high temperatures.