The Summer Emergency Checklist 5 Things to Check Before Calling for AC Repair

When the summer sun shines brightly, a malfunctioning air conditioner can quickly turn a comfortable home into an uncomfortable one. Before you pick up the phone for AC repair, there’s The Summer Emergency Checklist of 5 things to check that can often solve common issues. These simple steps can save time and help you understand what might be happening with your cooling system.

1. Inspect Your Thermostat Settings

The thermostat is the brain of your cooling system. Sometimes, a simple setting change is all that is needed.

1. Ensure the thermostat is set to “Cool.”
2. Verify the temperature setting is lower than the current room temperature.
3. Check if the fan setting is on “Auto” or “On.” “Auto” is usually preferred for energy efficiency.
4. Make sure the batteries in your thermostat are fresh if it’s a battery-powered model. Dead batteries can make the unit seem unresponsive.

2. Check the Air Filter

A dirty air filter is a frequent cause of AC problems. When the filter becomes clogged, airflow is restricted, making the unit work harder and less effectively.

1. Locate the air filter in your indoor AC unit or furnace.
2. Remove the filter and hold it up to a light. If light does not pass through easily, it is time for a replacement.
3. Replace dirty filters with a clean one. This simple action can improve efficiency and cooling performance.
4. Filters should be checked monthly and replaced every 1-3 months, depending on usage and household conditions.

3. Examine Your Circuit Breaker

Electrical issues can sometimes be mistaken for an AC breakdown. Your air conditioner requires a lot of power, and a tripped circuit breaker can interrupt that power.

1. Go to your home’s electrical panel.
2. Look for any circuit breakers that are in the “tripped” position, usually halfway between “On” and “Off.”
3. Flip the tripped breaker firmly to the “Off” position, then back to “On.”
4. If the breaker trips again immediately, there might be a more serious electrical problem, and professional AC repair is needed.

4. Clear Obstructions Around the Outdoor Unit

The outdoor unit, also known as the condenser, needs clear space to function properly. Blocked airflow can lead to poor cooling and system strain.

1. Walk around your outdoor AC unit.
2. Remove any leaves, grass clippings, dirt, or other debris that may have accumulated on or around the unit.
3. Trim back any bushes, plants, or tall grass at least two feet away from all sides of the unit.
4. Ensure the top of the unit is clear of any items that could block the fan.

5. Look for Frozen Coils

If your AC unit is running but not cooling, or if you see ice on the lines, you might have frozen evaporator coils. This can happen due to restricted airflow (often from a dirty filter) or low refrigerant levels.

1. Turn off your AC unit at the thermostat and the circuit breaker.
2. Open the access panel to your indoor unit if you are comfortable doing so.
3. Look for ice on the copper lines or coils.
4. Allow the unit to thaw completely, which can take several hours. You can place towels to catch any dripping water.
5. Once thawed, turn the unit back on after ensuring the air filter is clean and airflow is not blocked. If the coils freeze again, it’s a strong indicator that professional AC repair is necessary.

By following The Summer Emergency Checklist, you can often identify and resolve minor issues before needing to call a technician for AC repair. These 5 things to check are practical steps for maintaining a comfortable home during warmer months.