Troubleshooting Your AC Problems

Malfunctions. Funny noises. An uncomfortable home. What on earth is going on with your AC? With a few tools and a little time, you may be able to figure it out yourself. Are you game?

Ditch the problems, technician, and repair bill by eliminating these possible AC issues:

• AC not turning on?
  • Check the thermostat.
    It may need new batteries – or simply to be replaced.
  • Check for power.
    Blown fuses and tripped circuit breakers are easily remedied.
• Poor airflow?
  • Change that nasty filter.
    Every three months, minimum – unless you want you AC to work so hard you have to “change” it.
  • Eyeball AC ductwork.
    Crimps, blocks, and disconnections in ductwork can quickly result in an uncomfortable home.
• AC turning off and on repeatedly?
  • Set your thermostat 5 to 7 degrees warmer than usual.
    What? Yep. If it’s a hot day you could be overworking it and freezing the coil. Turn the thermostat up 5 to 7 degrees (which allows the coil to thaw) and see if it returns to normal. If it’s 100 degrees outside, 65 isn’t going to happen. Be thankful for 78 or 80.
  • Keep it clean – inside and out.
    Change the filter to rule that out as a source of obstruction. Then check the outdoor unit. Frequent cycling is often caused by a dirty condensing unit (the box outside your home).
  • Help your unit breathe by clearing grass, weeds, and bushes from around and above the unit.” The unit should have a minimum of 12-24” clear on all sides.
• AC not cooling properly?
  • Check your thermostat.
    “Operator error,” or simply not setting the thermostat properly, is a frequent cause of cooling issues.
  • Check drainage.
    Clogs in the drain line can cause improper operation and create a humid environment in your home. Make sure it is not blocked by algae or buried in your yard. If you see water standing in or around your indoor unit, most likely the drain is clogged. Be careful if you try to clear it as there may be quite a bit of water to deal with if something breaks. Drain stoppage is a good indicator that it may be time for a professional maintenance.
  • How gross is your filter?
    An AC filter that is so clogged it could get up and crawl away will reduce airflow and efficiency, straining your system and sabotaging cooling efforts. Change filters minimally every three months.

Bail out and call an Jupiter Air Conditioning and Heating!
It’s great to save a buck, but not all situations are for rookies. If you notice any of the following problems, do not pass go; go directly to an Jupiter Air Conditioning and Heating:

• You checked everything above and your AC is still not cooling properly.
  You may be low on refrigerant, or your evaporator coil may need a professional cleaning. If you can’t remember the last time you scheduled maintenance, your entire system probably needs some professional help.
• You heard hissing – and now your system doesn’t blow as cold as it used to.
  This may be a sign of leaking refrigerant. Bad for the environment – and your system. Call a pro.
• You noticed your AC was turning off and on frequently, and now it’s not working at all.
  Your compressor and/or fan could be worn out from the frequent cycling and in need of replacement. Face it. You’re just not that handy.
• You’re hearing weird noises during startup and operation.
  Brief squeals at startup are normal, but other noises, from clicking and clanking to bubbles, hisses and screams, are not. They could be anything from loose screws and wiring to a bent fan blade or blown motor. Your unit contains dangers of the sharp, electrical, and expensive variety. Keep yourself and your unit safe. Get help.

Feeling the heat of AC repair? Contact Jupiter Air Conditioning and Heating Company, today.