During the summer, there are many ways to cool off: going to the beach, taking a dip in the pool, and whipping up an icy drink. However, none compare to the feeling of basking in the cool breeze of an air conditioner. So, when your AC stops working, it can feel like the end of the world. Don’t panic! In this blog, we’ll guide you through what to do when your AC stops working, helping you troubleshoot common issues and understand when it’s time to call a professional.
Common Reasons an AC Stops Working
When your AC stops working, it can quickly become a major inconvenience. Let’s review some of the likely reasons your air conditioner has stopped providing that refreshing, cool air you’ve come to rely on.
1. Thermostat Issues
One of the most common reasons an air conditioner is not working properly is a problem with the thermostat. Make sure your thermostat is set properly. Sometimes, the settings might be accidentally changed, especially if you have kids or multiple people in your household. Check if it’s set to “cool” mode and that the temperature is lower than the current room temperature. Also, replace the thermostat battery if it’s been a while.
2. Tripped Breaker
A tripped breaker can easily cause your AC to stop working. Head over to your breaker box and look for any tripped breakers. If you find one, reset it and see if that fixes the issue. If the breaker trips again, there might be a more serious electrical issue at play, and you should contact an HVAC technician.
3. Dirty Air Filter
A dirty air filter can obstruct airflow, causing your AC unit to work harder and potentially shut down. Check your air filter and replace it if it looks dirty. Regularly replacing air filters not only helps in maintaining the efficiency of your AC but also improves the air quality in your home.
4. Refrigerant Leak
Low refrigerant levels due to a leak can cause your air conditioner to stop blowing cold air. If you suspect a refrigerant leak, it’s best to contact an HVAC professional to address the issue, as handling refrigerants requires special training and equipment.
5. Blocked Vents and Registers
Blocked vents and registers can restrict airflow, causing uneven temperatures and making it seem like your AC is not working. Confirm that all vents and registers are clear of obstructions like furniture, curtains, or rugs.
6. Condensate Pump Problems
The condensate pump removes water that the air conditioning system produces. If this pump fails, the system might shut down as a safety measure. Check to see if the pump is functioning correctly and, if necessary, clear any blockages that are in the drain pipe.
What to Do When Your AC Stops Working
There’s nothing quite like walking into a refreshing home on a hot summer day. But what happens when you step inside and realize your air conditioner isn’t cooling your home? It’s easy to stress, but take a deep breath and use this step-by-step guide for what to do when your AC stops working.
Check the Thermostat
As previously mentioned, one of the simplest reasons your air conditioner is not working could be the thermostat settings. Make sure the thermostat is set to “cool,” and the temperature is lower than the current room temperature. If your thermostat runs on batteries, try replacing them with fresh batteries to rule out any issues there.
If the temperature readings seem off, your thermostat might need calibration. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for calibration, or consider upgrading to a newer model for more accurate control.
Inspect the Circuit Breaker
A common cause for an AC not working is a tripped breaker. Locate your breaker box and check if the AC circuit breaker has tripped. If it has, reset it and see if your AC unit starts working again.
If the breaker continues to trip, this could indicate a more serious electrical issue. In this case, it’s best to contact an HVAC technician to perform an inspection and resolve the problem safely.
Examine the Air Filter
A dirty air filter can severely restrict airflow, causing your AC to work inefficiently or stop altogether. Check the air filter and replace it if it appears clogged or dirty. Regularly changing your air filters is necessary if you want to keep your AC unit running with no trouble.
For optimal performance, replace your air filters every one to three months, depending on usage and the type of filter your system uses.
Assess the Outdoor Unit
Your AC’s outdoor unit plays a crucial role in expelling hot air. Double-check that there are no obstructions like leaves, dirt, or debris around the unit. Cleaning the area around the outdoor unit can improve airflow and help your AC function correctly.
Dirty condenser coils can also impede your AC’s performance. Use a garden hose to gently clean the coils. For more thorough cleaning, you might need to call a professional.
Investigate the Refrigerant Levels
If your AC is blowing warm air, it’s possible that low refrigerant levels could be the culprit. Look for signs like ice buildup on the refrigerant lines or a unit that struggles to cool your home.
Handling refrigerant requires special training, so it’s best to call an HVAC professional if you suspect a refrigerant leak. They can recharge the system and check for leaks that need repairing.
Inspect the Drainage System
Your AC unit removes moisture from the air and expels it through a drainage system. Check the condensate pump and drain pipe for clogs. A blocked drain pipe can cause water to back up into the system, potentially causing it to shut down.
Regularly inspecting and cleaning the drain pipe can prevent blockages. Use a mixture of bleach and water to keep the line clear.
Evaluate the Evaporator Coils
Frozen evaporator coils can cause your AC to stop working properly. If you see ice on the coils, turn off the unit and let it thaw completely before turning it back on.
If the evaporator coils freeze frequently, it may indicate a larger issue, such as a refrigerant leak or poor airflow. An HVAC technician can evaluate and clean the coils to make sure everything is working correctly.
When to Call a Professional
If you’ve gone through all these steps and your air conditioner is still not working, it’s time to call in the experts. Here are a few situations where you should definitely reach out for professional help:
- Persistent Issues: If the problem persists despite your troubleshooting efforts.
- Electrical Components: Issues with electrical components or repeated breaker trips.
- Refrigerant Leaks: Suspected refrigerant leaks require professional handling.
- Condenser or Evaporator Coils: Problems with these components need expert attention.
- Fan Motor or Other Parts: Malfunctioning parts like the fan motor or compressor.
Stay Cool This Summer With Good Tidings!
If your AC is not working and you’ve tried everything without success, it’s time to call Good Tidings. We specialize in HVAC repair and maintenance. Our AC repair company can diagnose and fix your AC-related issues quickly and efficiently. Also experiencing issues with your home’s indoor air quality in Clark, NJ, or one of the surrounding communities? We have services to help with that, too.
Now that you know what to do when your AC stops working, don’t let the summer heat get you down. Contact us today to schedule a service and get your AC system back to working correctly! We proudly serve the residents of Clark, Westfield, Basking Ridge, Scotch Plains, and the nearby areas.
