If your air conditioner is not working, it may be time to take it to a professional for air conditioner repairs. While diagnosing a malfunctioning air conditioning system is relatively simple, there are a few things you should do before calling an HVAC technician. These tips will help you determine the problem quickly and accurately. Follow them for the best results. Below are some tips that will help you diagnose an air conditioning problem.
Check the circuit breakers. A tripped circuit breaker can prevent the air conditioner from working correctly. If the circuit breakers are not labeled, flip them to the on position to reset them. If all the circuit breakers are in good condition, call a professional HVAC expert to inspect the rest of the components of the system. In some cases, the blown fuses may cause the problem.
The compressor and the fan may be worn out. Check the connections to these components. Check for bare wires in the area around the air conditioner. Live wires could electrocute you if touched. Check the wiring for any pinched or stripped wires. Check for cables that might be hidden behind the walls. The life span of a compressor is directly related to the age of the capacitor. The compressor will stop working altogether when this happens, causing the entire unit to malfunction.
If you have a programmable thermostat, look for a malfunction. A thermostat malfunction can cause an air conditioner to short cycle or leave the space warmer than usual. A buildup of dust or corrosion can cause a faulty thermostat. It could also be affected by dead batteries. Other problems can include loose parts or a thermostat that is not calibrated correctly. You can also check a thermostat by placing it in direct sunlight or incorrectly calibrating it.
The AC will not operate if the engine is not running. To check for leaks:
- Turn on fresh air and turn the fan speed to the maximum.
- Check the “Max AC” setting as well as the refrigerant level. If you hear unusual noises coming from the AC, this indicates that the compressor may be malfunctioning.
- Consult a mechanic or technician and take the car to a local shop for repairs if it does.
If your AC unit is leaking or freezing, check the drain pipe and filter. A puddle of water under the condenser unit is average in hot, humid weather. However, it could be due to a refrigerant leak or a blocked drainpipe if it freezes. If your air conditioner is not performing up to standard, contact a Carrier HVAC dealer to have it fixed as soon as possible.
If the AC unit is leaking, the outside unit may be clogged with dirt or debris. The outdoor unit must be free of debris and dirt to remove the heat from your home. A layer of soil, leaves, or branches clogging the outside unit may also cause the AC to malfunction. The outdoor unit should be cleaned with a wet or dry vacuum. The air filter must be replaced regularly to keep the team running efficiently.