Is your air conditioner (AC) not working? As the summer heats up, the AC unit gets a lot of work. After all, on those hazy, hot and humid summer days, not having a functioning AC system generally makes homes unbearable. So, how do you know if your AC unit is working at its full potential and peak efficiency? Simple, ask yourself a few simple questions to determine if your air conditioner is working properly.
1. System is Noisy
A well maintained and properly functioning air conditioning system runs quietly and efficiently. A noisy AC is a good indicator that something is not right. If this is the case, there could be an issue with the compressor motor or condenser fan, which can compromise the system’s efficiency. In this instance, you should consult an HVAC expert to diagnose and fix the problem.
2. Clogged Air Filter
If you notice a decline in the airflow of your AC system, the first thing you want to check is the air filter. Most homeowners don’t worry about their air filter until there is already a problem present. For dirty filters, then your AC unit might run continually, but your home temperature may not cool down. This can be very costly when you see your utility bill at the end of the month.
But the good news is that changing an AC air filter is a task everyone can do.
3. Malfunctioning Breaker Box
On occasion, a high-voltage circuit breaker can trip and cause your AC unit to stop working. If this is an issue in your home, flip it back and your unit should starting running again. If it trips a second time, call for service.
4. Check Thermostat Batteries & Settings
Sometimes the problem is simple, your thermostat might just need a fresh set of batteries. Look for the battery symbol or light on your thermostat indicating the batteries need to be changed.
During the summer, a simple strategy is to keep your house warmer than normal when you are away and setting the thermostat to 78 degrees Fahrenheit only when you are home and feel it is too warm. Of course, thermostats can be set manually, however programmable thermostats can avoid the hassle of always having to remember to turn it up or down and keep it at your desired setting all day.
5. Inspect the Outdoor Unit
If your air conditioner is not cooling your home, this is a sign of an issue with your air condenser. We find that most homeowners never think that their outdoor air condenser needs any maintenance or looking after.
A little background: the outside portion of your air conditioner, the “condenser unit”, is responsible for releasing heat from your inside air to the air outside. The condenser actually removes heat from your home. Therefore, check the condenser and ensure it remains free from the buildup of pollen, dirt and debris. The best thing you can do to keep your condenser unit performing in top shape is to have annual air conditioning maintenance. Another great way to protect it is to make sure the area surrounding the unit remains clear.
6. Check the Drain Line
Is water surrounding the indoor unit that couldn’t have come from another source? If your air conditioner is not working correctly, you may need to inspect your drain line. Your drain line may be plugged and you need to have a professional AC technician out to fix the system.
7. Is it Time to Upgrade?
On those unbearably hot days, the outdoor temperature could be too intense for older systems to function at maximum efficiency. If this is case, it could be time to upgrade.
Air Conditioning Repair and Replacement Services in Connecticut
If you have checked out all of the above areas related to the AC not working and the problem continues to persist, it might lie somewhere other than with your AC system. After ruling these issues out, a home services company can still help you identify the problem area(s) by performing a home energy checkup. Our team of professionals offer innovative air conditioning repair and installation services for homes in Connecticut. Our team is committed to restoring the circulation of cool air in your house. To receive assistance with a broken system, give our technicians a call at (860) 325-7836 to book an appointment.