AC Not Working? 3 Steps to Take Before Calling for HVAC Repair

Before you call us for expert AC repair service, consider trying to fix it on your own to save money. These 3 steps will help you identify the issue that is causing your air conditioner to malfunction.

Having a broken AC when it’s hot outside is stressful. With having to schedule AC repair around your busy schedule and pay for the service, an inoperative air conditioner can turn into a major headache.

But it doesn’t always have to be that way.

Before you call Richmond’s Air or your local Houston AC repair company, there are steps you can take to remedy the situation while avoiding repair costs. Below you’ll find 3 steps to take before calling for HVAC repair.

Hopefully, these easy DIY tips can help you fix your AC and avoid adding any unnecessary stress to your life.

1. Do a quick electrical check.

• Start with the basics. Make sure there’s not a power outage in your area before calling for HVAC repair.
• Check the circuit breaker box. If the breaker for your HVAC unit has tripped, reset it and see if your AC starts working again. If the circuit continues to trip, then there is a safety problem—call an HVAC service technician or an electrician.
• Check the on/off switches. Some units have an on/off switch near the indoor air unit and a switch near the outside compressor. Be careful with these switches because they can hold a lot of electricity.

2. Take a closer look at the thermostat.

• Make sure your thermostat is set to cool, not heat. Sometimes this can get switched by accident.
• Some thermostats use batteries. If your thermostat appears dead, take it off the wall and replace the batteries.
• Be aware of the outdoor temperatures. If the temperatures outside are extremely hot, your AC may not be able to cool your home as efficiently. This doesn’t mean your AC is broken. You may just need to supplement your AC by using fans.

3. Assess the AC system itself.

• Check your air filters. If the air filters are dirty, your AC can have difficulty circulating cool air.
• Check the AC condensate drain line and drain pan. If the drain pan has water in it, then odds are there is a clog in the drain line.
• Check the air vents. Sometimes AC vents get covered up, especially after moving furniture. If one or more of these vents is covered, it can have a negative affect on your AC’s ability to cool your home.
• Ensure the outside air compressor is clear of any debris. There should be 3 feet of clearance between the compressor and anything else.

If your air conditioner is still not working after you’ve gone through these 3 steps, call a reliable HVAC company to help you find and fix the problem. Air conditioner repair doesn’t have to be a pain. Sometimes you just need to find the right people for the job.

For those in the Houston area looking for a dependable HVAC company, look no further than Richmond’s Air. With an A+ from the Better Business Bureau, Richmond’s Air is a premiere heating and air condition service company that strives to satisfy customer needs. Just look at the customer reviews for proof!