Broken Air Conditioner? Before you call a HVAC Contractor, Try these steps first
Invariably, when your air conditioning unit decides to go on the fritz, it will be on the hottest day. Before you call a residential HVAC contractor, there are a few things you can do to help you troubleshoot your system. While there are several issues that only a professional can fix, in many cases, it may just be a simple problem that's causing the malfunction, particularly if your system is newer and has not had any issues in the past.
1. Make sure the unit is turned on. Set your thermostat up high, and then turn it well below the current room temperature. Listen for the system to turn off. If it does not, there are two possibilities -- the breakers or fuses have blown, or the thermostat may not be functioning properly.
2. Check the breakers or fuses for the air conditioning unit. For a breaker box, open the panel up and check to see if any of the breakers have tripped to the "off" position. Move these back to the "on" position, and have someone else click the thermostat. If the breaker throws again while you're standing there, there may be an electrical issue with the air conditioner. If you have fuses, these will typically be located in a fuse box outside, next to the unit. Turn the fuse switch to the off position and examine the fuses. If any appear burned, or if they make a noise when you shake them, replace the fuses. Turn the switch back to the on position and then click the thermostat.
3. Check the air flow to the system. Blocked air flow is a common reason why air conditioners suddenly quit working. Go outside and check around the unit. If there are weeds or grass around it, trim these away and try the unit again.
4. Examine the unit for any visible signs of problems. If all of the above steps have failed and your unit still will not function, look for issues such as ice build-up on the indoor coil, leaking water from the unit, or oil that has spilled from the unit's casing. These are signs that you will need to contact a residential HVAC professional.
After you go through these troubleshooting steps, you'll need to find a residential HVAC contractor in your area.) Check the name on your system before you begin calling. (NO,NO,NO!!!) For a great way to find a service company check out our other blog ( Characteristics of High Quality HVAC Service Techs) While a general HVAC company can typically solve any issues you're experiencing, if your system is still under warranty, you definitely want to pick the right company so that you don't void your warranty.
Check with online review services, such as Angie's List, to get an idea of the ratings for the residential HVAC companies in your area. You can also check with the better business bureau, or ask your friends in the neighborhood who they have worked with in the past. In larger areas, you can also use your phone's Google map or places app to get reviews of local companies. These can be very useful in narrowing your search.
Keep in mind that on severely hot days or stretches where the weather is very hot, you may not be able to get a service tech out to your location immediately. If you or someone in the home has health issues that could be worsened by high temperatures, let the residential HVAC company know -- they'll make an extra effort to get you taken care of.