When the AC is off, it must be very hot, right? Performing the service will cost a lot of money. In addition, you can also be stifling while waiting for an AC service technician to arrive. Come on, let's try to check our own air conditioner to be more efficient.
Step
Method 1 of 2: Finding Out the Problem
Step 1. Find out the problem
Is the AC unit not working at all, is it not cold enough, or is it just blowing air?
Step 2. Not working at all:
condenser (for outdoor unit) or air handler/furnace (indoor unit) is not working.
- Make sure the power plug is plugged in. Sometimes the problem is here. Children, pets, or yourself (who accidentally bumps the power plug while cleaning), can make the power plug loosen or even fall off.
- Check circuit breakers and fuses. Make sure these two things are properly installed, powered on, and functioning properly. Circuits, especially in older homes, are usually easily overloaded if the air conditioner shares the circuit with other appliances such as an iron, refrigerator, or microwave.
- Check the thermostat, make sure it is set to the desired cool position, and is working properly. As with electrical plugs, the settings of these tools can sometimes be changed accidentally.
Step 3. Check your AC fan blower strap, if it is too loose, damaged, or broken
This can cause the exhaled air to be small, and allow the formation of ice, resulting in poor cooling performance.
Repair or replace the blower strap. Let the ice melt first before turning on the AC unit
Step 4. Check coil and air filter
If it is filled with dust and dirt, clean it thoroughly. Make sure the ice has melted before you turn on the AC unit.
Step 5. Contact a service technician
If you're sure everything's connected, powered, properly installed, and clean, it might be time to call your subscription service representative.
Method 2 of 2: Preventive Treatment
Step 1. Wash the condenser and AC coil regularly or as needed
Turn off the air conditioner, grab the hose, and spray the coils in a top-down pattern. Keep the condenser away from objects that give off heat and kapok trees. Both of these are "AC destroyers".
Step 2. Clean or replace your air conditioner filter regularly
This simple step can increase the efficiency of the air conditioner and lighten the load, so that the life of the air conditioner becomes longer.
- The air filter needs to be replaced when ice has formed in the refrigeration unit (evaporator section).
- You might have a hard time checking it, but try touching the outside of the metal plate and feel for any noticeable temperature differences. You may also be able to see ice in the large path leading to the outer unit (suction line).
- If there is ice formation, it is likely that your air filter is very dirty and is blocking the normal flow of air. Ice formation occurs because the heat entering the cooler is not enough.
Tips
- Keep the air conditioner clean for optimal performance and reliability.
- Maintaining the air conditioner and servicing it regularly increases the efficiency of the air conditioner, saves energy and prevents wear on the air conditioner.
Warning
- Do not attempt to diagnose electrical problems unless you are trained and/or licensed.
- Do not attempt repairs unless you are a licensed AC technician. Most states require a licensed AC technician to perform repairs.
- Do not bend the “fins” on the outside of the condenser. Make sure you wash the coils using the “top-down” method.
- Do not immediately assume that if your AC is off then the fault is in the thermostat. Tinkering with the thermostat can actually add to the problem. If there is no problem with the thermostat, call for service immediately.
- Do not attempt to add or remove refrigerant from the A/C system unless you are a professional technician.
- If in doubt, stop. Immediately contact a licensed AC contractor.
