Ah, the joys of summertime heat in the Tampa Bay area! Practically everyone is running their air conditioners at full blast, and with that strain often comes breakdowns. Although a unit typically can be repaired, it is frustrating waiting for an AC to be fixed when it is 90+ degrees outside!
The air-conditioning pros at Integrity Home Solutions will explain common reasons why your AC might not be working and how you can troubleshoot. And remember, our heating, ventilation, and AC (HVAC) technicians are just a phone call away if you need help!
Your Thermostat Batteries Could Be Dead
Sounds too simple, right? The problem often is not with your air conditioner. If your thermostat screen is blank, the batteries are probably dead. Switch them out and see if your AC starts.
While we are talking about the thermostat, make sure your controller is set to “cool.” If it isn’t, you could be running the heat or just spinning the fan.
Has the Circuit Breaker Tripped?
Check your home’s breaker box for a tripped breaker. Reset it and try to turn the air conditioner back on.
Breakers often trip because a circuit is overloaded. If the breaker continues to trip, consider shutting off other appliances in your home that might be overloading the circuit. Or, if you do not know what is tripping the circuit, call in an HVAC professional from Integrity Home Solutions to diagnose the issues.
Is a Fuse Blown?
If you have a blown fuse, you have to replace the fuse before the thermostat can tell the AC what to do. It is best to call in an HVAC or licensed professional to fix this problem.
Starting Components Are Deteriorating
To run, most air conditioners depend on capacitors within the outdoor unit. These components are “start” and “run” capacitors, and they look like giant batteries. Essentially, they hold power and allow your AC to turn on and run smoothly.
Capacitors, like any components, have a limited life. They eventually will fail and should be replaced by an HVAC technician.
Don’t suffer in the heat! Integrity Home Solutions can repair or replace your AC so you can get back to enjoying your summer! Call today, (813) 473-6007!
Are the Coils Dirty?
Sometimes, even though your thermostat is set to “cool,” warm air is blowing from your vents. This could indicate that the coils in either your indoor or outdoor unit are dirty. They can get dirty if your HVAC system isn’t serviced seasonally.
If coils get filthy, the system can’t adequately remove heat from your home, and you’ll just be circulating warm air.
The lesson here: Get preventive maintenance done on your HVAC system!
Have You Changed the Air Filter?
Do you remember the last time you changed your AC air filter? If not, it probably is dirty or clogged. With time, air filters can get so clogged with dust and allergens that they restrict airflow to your HVAC system, causing it to work harder.
Without enough airflow, your system can freeze up and ice will form on the coil. Your AC won’t properly cool or likely even turn on.
A dirty air filter is the most common culprit, but a range of issues also might cause the problem.
Other reasons your air conditioner’s coil might freeze up include:
- Refrigerant leaks
- Closing most of your supply vents
- Obstructed return or supply vents
Preventive Maintenance
The good news? Most of these air-conditioning problems are preventable. When you regularly schedule preventive maintenance for your HVAC system, you usually can avoid the annoyance of an inoperable air conditioner. A thorough inspection and tune-up will identify problems before they cause bigger, more costly breakdowns.
At Integrity Home Solutions, we will:
- Clean the coils.
- Flush the drain line.
- Clean the condensate pump. Calibrate your thermostat.
- Check for refrigerant leaks.
- Test every component to uncover potential problems and to ensure that your AC is running at peak efficiency.
Prevent AC Breakdowns with Integrity Home Solutions
Beat the heat this summer and avoid costly air-conditioner breakdowns by scheduling preventive maintenance now! In the event of an emergency breakdown, our technicians are available 24/7 in case of emergencies to repair AC breakdowns and get you back to comfort.
Keep it cool! Call Integrity Home Solutions to schedule an appointment today, (813) 473-6007!