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If you depend on air conditioning to keep you cool in the summer, it’s wise to be aware of common AC problems and how to address them. 

Some issues have simple solutions that you can handle on your own, while others may require professional intervention. By understanding what to look for, you may end up saving yourself a lot of money and a potential hassle. 

This knowledge will also help you assess when it’s necessary to call in a professional to prevent minor issues from turning into major repairs. 

If you’re not afraid of a little investigative work, here are some typical AC problems we run across and some of the first things we look at.

AC Not Turning On

One of the most frustrating issues is when your AC won’t turn on at all. This can be caused by a tripped circuit breaker, thermostat problems, or electrical issues within the unit.

Troubleshooting Steps:

1. 1. Check the Circuit Breaker: Ensure the breaker controlling your AC unit hasn’t tripped. If it has, reset it and see if the AC turns on.
   2. Inspect the Thermostat: Make sure the thermostat is set to “cool” and the temperature is lower than the current room temperature. Replace the batteries if needed.
   3. Examine the Power Supply: Ensure the AC unit is properly plugged in and that any external switches (like those near the outdoor unit) are turned on.

If these steps don’t resolve the issue, it’s best to call a professional to inspect the system for electrical problems or internal component failures.

AC Blowing Warm Air

If your AC is blowing warm air instead of cool, it could be due to low refrigerant levels, dirty condenser coils, or a malfunctioning compressor.

Troubleshooting Steps:

1. 1. Check the Thermostat Settings: Confirm that the thermostat is set to “cool” mode and that the fan is set to “auto” rather than “on.”
   2. Inspect the Air Filter: A dirty air filter can restrict airflow and cause the AC to blow warm air. Replace the filter if it’s dirty.
   3. Clean the Condenser Coils: Turn off the unit’s power and gently clean the coils with a garden hose, avoiding high-pressure settings.

If these steps don’t fix the problem, low refrigerant or a compressor issue might be the cause, both of which require professional repair.

Weak Airflow

Weak airflow from your AC vents can make it difficult to cool your home efficiently. This issue can be caused by clogged air filters, blocked vents, or problems with the blower motor.

Troubleshooting Steps:

1. 1. Replace the Air Filter: A clogged filter can restrict airflow. Check the filter and replace it if it’s dirty.
   2. Check the Vents: Ensure all vents are open and unobstructed by furniture or other objects.
   3. Inspect the Ductwork: Look for visible signs of leaks or damage in the ductwork that could be causing air loss.

If the airflow remains weak after these checks, the blower motor or another internal component may be malfunctioning, necessitating a professional inspection.

Water Leaks

Water leaks around your AC unit can indicate a blocked drain pipe, a broken condensate pump, or issues with the evaporator coils.

Troubleshooting Steps:

1. 1. Clear the Drain Pipe: Turn off the power to the unit and use a wet/dry vacuum to clear any blockages in the drain pipe.
   2. Check the Condensate Pump: Ensure the pump is working correctly and that the float switch isn’t stuck.
   3. Inspect the Evaporator Coils: Look for signs of freezing or excessive moisture around the coils.

If you can’t resolve the leak, it’s time to call a professional to prevent water damage and ensure your AC operates efficiently.