We think a better way to phrase this question is “Do I need professionals to solve every AC problem?” Because when it comes to what we would call a “repair” for an air conditioner, the answer to “Do I need professionals” is a straightforward “yes.” Any work that involves opening up part of the air conditioning system and using tools to fix troubles must be left to licensed and experienced pros. Attempting any of this work on your own, with nothing but store-bought tools and an online tutorial video, will likely make whatever is wrong far worse, create additional problems, and void the equipment warranty.
However, there is a difference between repairs and troubleshooting. Some air conditioning problems don’t require full repairs but only basic adjustments that you can do on your own. They don’t require tools or expertise or any tinkering around inside either indoor or outdoor components. We’ll go over some of what you can do to solve AC troubles before you call us for professional air conditioning repair in Delaware.
See if the thermostat is set correctly
This may seem obvious, but people often overlook the obvious. The thermostat may be set incorrectly for the temperature, or someone else in the house may have changed the settings without you knowing about it. If you have a new thermostat with advanced features, make sure you’re familiar with the settings and programs.
Check on the electrical panel
When your air conditioning system refuses to come on, or the fan comes on but the compressor doesn’t (which means you’ll get room temperature air from the vents), one of the first steps we recommend you take is to go to the home’s electrical panel. Check if any circuit breakers have tripped. An AC is a major consumer of electricity in your house—possibly the biggest—and may at times trip its circuit breaker. Reset any tripped breaker and try the AC again. If the air conditioner continues to trip the circuit breaker, the problem is more serious and it’s time to call our professionals.
Change the air filter
Clogged air filters cause numerous problems for an AC, and unfortunately people often forget the regular filter changes necessary to prevent them. This filter in the HVAC cabinet needs to be swapped for a clean one every one to three months, depending on the filter type and how much the AC is used. A clogged filter can cause the AC to shut down, lose cooling capacity, have its evaporator coil freeze, and allow dust and dirt inside the cabinet where they will damage motors.
Clear away an obstructed condenser
The condenser is the outdoor cabinet of the AC. If you aren’t getting enough cooling from the air conditioner, the source may be obstructions around the condenser: branches, leaves, dirt. Make sure the condenser is clear by a foot on all sides. You can also wash the condenser using a garden hose (don’t use a high-pressure nozzle).
Still have a faulty AC after troubleshooting? Don’t go further with DIY—call our professionals. We offer 24/7 service.
At Atlantic Refrigeration & Air Conditioning, Inc. “We take pride in your comfort.” Call us for AC service in Delaware & the Maryland Eastern Shore.