We are fast approaching a season when no one wants to face a failing air conditioner. As it turns out, many AC units impeccably time their failure during the scorching heat of summer, leaving miserable homeowners scrambling for a repair. Here are some tips on how to avoid that, and what to be aware of when your AC does need a repair.
Don't Push It
The first thing to do is turn off your AC at the thermostat. This will help prevent any further damage to the unit. Not doing so can cause irreparable damage and an expensive repair bill because your unit will continue to run, trying to cool your home with little to no progress. Resort to the help of ventilation, closing the blinds, and relying on fans until your unit can be repaired.
Try Simple Troubleshooting
If your ac stops working, the first thing you'll want to do is make sure that it has power. Check the breaker and be sure it hasn't tripped. AC units are known for using up a lot of electricity and can easily blow a circuit breaker. Next, check your air filter. A clogged air filter is one of the most common reasons AC units fail. Replacing a dirty air filter is a quick and easy fix that can save you a lot of money in the long run. Check your unit for debris, animals, leaves, or any other foreign objects that could be blocking the flow of air. Since these are common issues with ac units, a professional will want to make sure you have tried these things first before they start searching for a more complex issue.
Get Professional Help
If you have gone through all the troubleshooting suggestions to no avail, it's time to call a professional. It is always best to let a trained technician handle complex repairs. They will know exactly what to look for. When you call for a repair, the technician will need some basic information about your unit. This includes the make, model, and age of your AC as well as a description of the problem. Be sure to have this information readily available when you call so the process can go smoothly and quickly.
Remember, ac repair technicians are in high demand at certain times of the year and will be working in the same stressful, high-heat conditions they are trying to help you escape. Being organized and extra kind goes a long way toward helping them help you. Once they have you back up and running, consider annual maintenance to keep your ac ready at the first sign of a heat wave.
