Summer will be here before you know it, meaning now is the time to start your air conditioner maintenance. Americans spend around $29 billion a year on air conditioning, with much of those costs occurring when the AC breaks down in the height of summer.
If you want to save money and keep cool all summer long, some AC troubleshooting is in order. Here’s what you need to know.
1. Preventative Maintenance as AC Troubleshooting
Professional preventative maintenance is the single most effective way to avoid the most common AC problems. Every spring, we recommend calling a local home AC repair company that offers affordable preventative maintenance.
Doing this once a year will save you a lot of money in the long run, since you can avoid catastrophic air conditioner repair costs.
2. Replace Those Filters
Troubleshooting AC unit problems is not rocket science. Most issues can quickly be solved simply by changing the air conditioner filters. Over time, your air filters will collect dust and debris.
If they are not regularly changed (at least every 4 months), then they will become clogged and stop working. Always check that your AC airflow is unobstructed as the first troubleshooting step.
3. Check the Vents
Most of the causes of air conditioner problems are hidden from view. Since restricted airflow is the most common cause of AC malfunction, you should take the time to check your air vents.
Blocked or dirty air vents will prevent cool air from circulating around your home, causing the AC unit to degrade over time. Clean out your vents and then see if your AC is back to normal.
4. Consult the Thermostat
The thermostat is the regulator of your home. It uses sensors to ensure that optimum temperatures are maintained at all times, and they constantly regulate your AC unit. When the thermostat starts to malfunction, the AC unit is the first to go.
First off, you should check your thermostat batteries, as a dead thermostat means a dead AC unit. If this is not the problem, check your thermostat settings and learn how to set up your thermostat for perfect temperatures all year round.
5. Don’t Forget the Circuit Breakers
The circuit breakers in our homes exist to keep us safe and prevent our electricity systems from overloading. The AC is often the most significant source of electricity consumption in any American home, which is why an overloaded AC is very likely to trip the circuit breakers.
If your AC simply won’t turn on, you should check the closest circuit breakers to your unit to see if they have been tripped. If so, all you need to do is flip them back into position and you should be good to go. If resetting your circuit breakers fails to restore power, you should call an electrician immediately.
Better Home Living in 2022
Understanding AC troubleshooting will help you to stay comfortable this summer and avoid unnecessary stress. For more tips for smooth home living, we have got you covered. Check out our expertly-curated home decor guides, where you can find practical tips on how to live better in 2022 and beyond.
