As summer weather arrives, many homeowners will heavily depend on their air conditioning unit to keep their homes cool and comfortable. The hottest months of the year can put an increased strain on AC units, and this can cause trouble if the unit is not properly maintained. It is important to be mindful of your air conditioning system and be proactive about addressing any AC repairs needed.
If you encounter problems cooling your home, you may be able to address the problem yourself. Below, we share a few recommendations for diagnosing your unit.
- AC Trouble: Your unit won’t power on
- AC Trouble: Your unit is not blowing cool air
- AC Trouble: Your AC unit is louder than normal
- AC Trouble: My energy bill is too high
- AC Trouble: I have already tried troubleshooting and it is still not working
AC Trouble: Your unit won’t power on
If your unit is not turning on, do not fret. There may be a simple resolution. First, check and replace your thermostat batteries. There is also a chance the circuit breaker needs to be reset. Check your circuit breakers and reset it once.
Also, ensure that your thermostat is set to cool (not heat). Test the thermostat by setting the temperature below the current room temperature.
AC Trouble: Your unit is not blowing cool air
During the hottest months, cool air is essential. If your AC unit is not blowing refreshing air, it may be the result of a dirty air filter blocking the airflow. This fix is fairly simple. Make sure you change your air filter and continue to do so each month. This will help prevent dirt and debris from blocking your condenser unit.
AC Trouble: Your AC unit is louder than normal
There are a few culprits that will lead to an air conditioner making loud noises. If you hear banging, thumping, or rattling, this is likely an internal motor problem that should require a professional.
A hissing sound, however, indicates a refrigerant leak. Either you or your contractor will need to identify the small hole or crack that is causing the leak. In the name of saving both time and money, it is best to call in a professional who will have tools to identify the break and repair the cord more efficiently.
AC Trouble: My energy bill is too high
If you have noticed that your energy bill is higher than usual, head outside to manually inspect your air conditioning unit. Is it dirty or covered in debris? Even small branches and sticks can make the unit work harder than it needs, leading to a higher energy bill. This is also a good time to check your air vents. Take time to examine the inside of your home, and make sure that no vents are blocked by furniture or rugs.
Regularly cleaning the outside of the unit, and maintaining regular check-ups, will save you money and prevent you from having to call a contractor to diagnose problems or provide a deep cleaning.
AC Trouble: I have already tried troubleshooting and it is still not working
If you have tried the DIY tips above, and your air conditioning unit is still not working, you should seek the help of an expert. A professional contractor will be able to identify any problems and recommend any air conditioning repairs.
Depending on the type of unit and its age, it may be more cost-effective to replace your HVAC unit. Home Revival’s new HVAC cost calculator can help you determine the cost to replace your unit. Our cost calculators are powered by data from thousands of residential contractor projects, completed across the United States in 2019.
A properly functioning air conditioning unit is essential to surviving the long summer months. Now is a perfect time to make sure your unit is running efficiently. If you’re experiencing any problems, it is best to call a professional who will help navigate your AC repair or replacement.