If your home’s air conditioning system isn’t cooling your home, it doesn’t necessarily mean you need an AC repair or replacement. Here are five reasons why an AC won’t work, with simple solutions that any homeowner can try.
The AC breaker is tripped
If your AC unit isn’t turning on, the breaker may be tripped. Check your electrical panel for a tripped breaker. Additionally, the air conditioner’s condenser – the unit that sits outside the house – may have its own 240-volt breaker switch located near the unit. Check to see that this switch is in the correct position.
The thermostat is switched off
If your thermostat isn’t set correctly, then it won’t trigger your AC to start. Ensure the thermostat isn’t set to heat or at too high a temperature. Moreover, ensure the batteries in your thermostat haven’t died. Look for the low battery indicator on your thermostat’s display.
The air filter is too dirty
If your air conditioner is working but the airflow isn’t strong enough to cool your house, you may have dirty or clogged air filters. The filter is located at the fan blower in the furnace. If the filter is full of dust and debris, it drastically reduces the air conditioner’s ability to cool your home. It can also result in higher energy bills. Replace your air filter every 90 days or so. Time your filter replacements with the change of the seasons.
Your ducts and vents are blocked or leaking
Similar to your filter, your ducts and vents are the conduits for cool air to flow into the various rooms of your house. If they’re blocked, bent or leaking, the cool air won’t make it to your indoor living areas. Ductless mini-split air conditioning systems obviously won’t have this problem.
You need a professional repair
If you’ve taken all the troubleshooting steps suggested above and your system still isn’t working, you may require a professional air conditioner repair. A burnt-out condenser fan motor, a failing capacitor, a malfunctioning condensate pump or a refrigerant leak are common situations that require professional repair.
Scheduling an annual preventative air conditioner maintenance tune-up is a great way to prevent air conditioner breakdowns. A professional technician can identify and repair small problems before they become costly repairs. They'll also clean and lubricate all the moving parts and ensure everything is running properly.
Air Conditioner Maintenance and Repair in the GTA
At Black Forest Plumbing, we provide air conditioning replacement and air conditioner maintenance and repair services for residential and commercial customers throughout Newmarket, Aurora, Barrie and the GTA. We also provide ductless air conditioner installation and repairs. Contact us today to schedule an air conditioner maintenance appointment with one of our experienced technicians.