Technically speaking, all HVAC repairs should be handled by an HVAC professional. However, when your AC breaks, it often makes sense to try a few simple fixes before you call in the professionals. Here are some simple AC "repairs" worth trying and exploring before you resort to calling your HVAC repair team.
Flipping the Circuit Breaker
Did your air conditioner completely stop working to the extent that it's not even blowing out warm air? It might have tripped the breaker for some reason, or another appliance on the same circuit may have tripped the breaker. Venture over to your breaker box, and make sure all of the circuit breakers are in the "on" position. If the one associated with the AC unit is "off" turn it on. This might solve your problem! If the breaker keeps flipping back, though, you'll need to call in the pros since there is likely a more extensive electrical issue going on.
Replacing the Thermostat Batteries
If you have a battery-powered thermostat and not a hardwired one, check to see whether the thermostat batteries are dead. Often, if the batteries die, your AC won't turn on because the thermostat can't tell it to. Replace the batteries, and see whether that does the trick. Then, set a reminder in your phone to change the thermostat batteries once a year so this does not happen to you again.
Changing the Air Filter
Is your air conditioner blowing out air, but at a reduced volume? The problem could just be that you have an overly dirty, clogged air filter that is interfering with the airflow through the ducts. Pull the existing filter out of its position, and see if that fixes the problem. If it does, then you can head to the store, buy a new air filter, and slide it into place.
If you try all three of these fixes and your AC unit still is not working, then there likely is a bigger issue going on. The air conditioner might have a refrigerant leak. Or, the blower motor may be seized or bound up. These problems should be managed by an HVAC professional, so give them a call and schedule an appointment. You can at least rest assured that you won't call them out only to have them change an air filter, replace thermostat batteries, or flip a circuit breaker for you. Those are all things the average homeowner can do safely.
Contact a company like Able AC Service to learn more about air conditioning repairs.
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