AC Troubleshooting You Can Do Yourself

When temperatures rise, your air conditioner working at peak capacity can keep you comfortable during hot weather. Maintaining a clean, clear circulation pathway for air can make your AC unit work effectively. This will save you money on AC repair and cause less wear and tear on your AC system. Here are some things you can do to troubleshoot your own AC unit.

Replace AC Air Filters

Clean air filters keep large particles of dust, debris, and allergens from entering the air you breathe in your home. The most effective practice is to replace the air filters, but if you don’t have new ones, you can gently vacuum your existing filters. Another option is to wash them in a half-and-half mixture of warm water and distilled white vinegar. Just be sure they dry completely before reinstalling them or they could gather contaminants.

Clean Vents and Registers

Your AC vents and registers are the components of your system bringing cool air in and pulling warm air out. Over time, dust, pet hair, and other debris may block these openings, reducing airflow. Cleaning them can be as simple as using the hand attachment on your vacuum or a brush to remove obstacles.

Clean Condenser Coil and Cover

Your AC condenser is located in the outside unit of your system, usually on the side of the house. A cover protects the unit from debris but should also be clear to effectively pull air to cool your home. Both the cover and the coil can become clogged with dust, leaves, and other things strewn about by the wind or when mowing your yard. Clean the cover by brushing off anything stuck to the outside. Once that is done, turn off the power to the condenser and use a common garden hose to clear out blockages. You can do this either by spraying through the coil from the outside or removing the top of the cover to spray from the inside out.

Other AC Repair

Here are a few more things to do to keep your AC running smoothly:

  • Test your AC system one month before you anticipate using it
  • Replace the battery in your thermostat (if needed)
  • Clean and drain the evaporator coil (when the AC is not running)

If you feel your AC still isn’t working to your satisfaction, contact an independent American Standard Heating & Air Conditioning dealer to examine it. Theyshould advise you of additional maintenance and AC repair you need. Regular system servicing by a professional may prolong the life of your AC unit and preserve your comfort.

Set AC Maintenance Reminders

To effectively use these tips, set calendar reminders to check your AC system prior to the beginning of the warm season. Well-timed testing will give you time to obtain any supplies you may need, such as air filters or batteries. Once the heat arrives, you may have to wait longer for a technician to help you out. Following these steps will help you stay cool all summer long.

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