It’s getting warmer and your air conditioning unit is not working properly, just knowing a few basic air conditioning troubleshooting techniques can save you time and money.
- Does the air conditioning unit turn on automatically?
There are a number of reasons for the air conditioning unit to stop working. Make sure the thermostat is set lower than the room temperature and is on “cool”.
If the unit still doesn’t turn on, move the fan from “auto” to “on”. If the blower runs, the unit is receiving power. If not, check for a blown fuse or a tripped circuit breaker. If the circuit breaker keeps tripping call for air conditioning service and hire a licensed contractor.
If the circuit breaker is fine, there is a high pressure button located on the outdoor unit of your condenser. Push the button to reset the system. Again if this becomes a regular occurrence call for air conditioning service and hire a licensed contractor.
- Has the outdoor condensing fan stopped working?
You should be able to hear and see the outdoor condenser working. If not, you should call for service on the air conditioners condenser fan.
- Does the fan begin to spin, but the compressor fails to start?
This will occur when an air conditioning system sits dormant during the winter months. You will probably need to have service on the unit.
- Does your air conditioner run but not cool the room?
Go outside and touch the large cooper line that exits the condenser. If the line is warm, you are probably out of Freon. Call for service on the air conditioning unit.
- Is the line frozen?
This could be a variety of issues from refrigerant leak, to an air flow problem etc.…. Make sure that your registers are all open and nothing is blocking the return duct. Shut down the air conditioning system to let it thaw, if the problem still continues call for service on your system.
If there is any doubt, call a service technician and hire a professional contractor to get your system up and running. Call us at 727-388-2808 and be preventative before it gets too hot!
I like that you mentioned paying some attention to the outdoor condesing fan from time to time. Last month I checked ours and noticed a bunch of debris on top of it. Keeping it clear can play a big role in keeping it running efficiently.
I think my AC unit is dying, and I’m not sure what to do. It makes sense that I would want to get a professional to take a look at it for me! They could determine if I should have it replaced or repaired.