Most home A/C problems require service from a qualified HVAC contractor with the training and specialized equipment to do the job right. DIY efforts are necessarily restricted to a few basic troubleshooting diagnostics that may rule out obvious issues before calling in a pro. They may also better prepare you to understand whatever repairs or replacements a pro may recommend to restore performance and efficiency. If you’re facing home A/C problems, take a few minutes to run through these simple troubleshooting steps, then get in touch with your local HVAC service provider.
Clear The Outdoor Unit
A number of performance shortfalls can result from inadequate air circulation into the vents of the central A/C outdoor component. More often than not, this is the result of encroaching vegetation. If your unit lacks two feet of clear space on all sides, cut back the excess growth to permit full circulation.
Set the Thermostat Properly
First, make sure the unit is turned on and set to the “Cool” mode. Sure, it’s a no-brainer, but HVAC techs frequently discover simple oversights like this are behind home A/C problems. After that’s cleared up, make sure the desired temperature setting is at least 5 degrees below the current room temperature.
Check the Condensate Drip Pan
Located in the inside air handler beneath the evaporator coil, the drip pan may be wet but it shouldn’t be full. A clogged condensate drain line that causes the pan to fill may trigger an overflow protection switch that automatically shuts down the A/C. Your HVAC tech will have to clear the blockage and reset the switch to restore operation.
Change the Filter
A dirty air filter opens a Pandora’s Box of A/C dysfunction ranging from performance shortfalls and high operating costs all the way to coil icing and total system shutdown. Filters are inexpensive insurance and simple to replace. Ask your HVAC service professional to show you if you don’t know how.
Your home A/C problems require the skills and expertise provided by the pros at Paitson Bros., the choice of Terre Haute homeowners for heating and cooling services since 1922.
Our goal is to help educate our customers in Terre Haute, Indiana about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about A/C problems and other HVAC topics, download our free Home Comfort Resource guide.
Credit/Copyright Attribution: “docstockmedia/Shutterstock”
The post Effective Troubleshooting Tips for Home A/C Problems appeared first on Paitson Bros. Heating Blog.