Is your home air conditioning system not working? When dealing with AC issues, your first instinct might be to contact your local HVAC technician. However, certain AC problems are easier to solve than you might think. Learn how to diagnose AC problems today!

We value your time and money at Number One Plumbing, AC, Solar & Electric. That’s why we’re providing you with a basic air conditioning troubleshooting guide that details common AC problems and their solutions to restore comfort in your home. Avoid hefty HVAC bills for simple fixes with our helpful tips.

Please note that if these solutions don’t resolve your air conditioning problems, contact Number One Plumbing, AC, Solar & Electric right away! Troubleshooting your air conditioning unit may seem complicated, but it’s pretty simple. Follow our air conditioning troubleshooting guide.

Check Your Thermostat Settings

The first thing you should always check when experiencing air conditioning problems is your thermostat. From basic models to sophisticated programmable versions, these devices can automatically change temperatures throughout the day for higher efficiency and better comfort. Here is how to know if your thermostat might be broken:

• Inconsistent airflow: Lukewarm air blows from the registers while cold air blows at other times.
• Higher-than-expected temperature reading on the thermostat.
• No air is blowing from the registers.

Solution:

Here’s what to check when examining the thermostat setting:

• Check the temperature setting to ensure nobody else has changed it to a higher one.
• Ensure your thermostat is set for cooling instead of heating. If it is set to heating, re-adjust the thermostat to cool or change the setting to auto so it will automatically switch between cooling and heating as temperatures change.
• Check if your fan is set to “auto,” “on,” or “off.” If set to “on,” the fan will run constantly, even when the system isn’t cooling the air, which may result in warmer air blowing from the registers when the AC unit isn’t operating. Change the fan setting to “auto” to resolve the issue by turning off the blower when the system is not cooling. If it’s set to “off,” select “on” or “auto.”
• If you have a programmable thermostat, check your “comfort schedule” for any issues, and make sure your programmed settings match the times and temperatures you expect when you are home, away, and asleep.

If you make these adjustments and your AC still does not work, contact Number One Plumbing, A/C, Solar & Electric immediately for a solution.

Change Your Dirty Air Filters

Dirty filters are one of the most common reasons your AC may not work effectively. If you’re having AC problems, check for dirty air filters. Most air conditioning systems include an indoor air handler unit, usually a furnace or fan coil.

Air filters keep your air running smoothly by trapping dust, dirt, debris, and other airborne contaminants. Filter maintenance is critical to keep your air conditioning unit in pristine condition. When filters are not cleaned or replaced, they can clog and hinder proper airflow.

Common symptoms of air conditioning not working include:

• Warmer-than-usual air temperature.
• Weak airflow from your cooling registers.
• AC runs briefly before shutting down and restarting (short cycling).

Solution:

Before checking your air filter, ensure the thermostat is set for cooling, and the temperature setting is correct. If it’s set correctly and the air is still not working, check your air filter manual to determine how to remove, clean, and replace your air filter. Typically, most filters are situated in the furnace cabinet or outside the furnace between the cabinet and the return air duct. If you’ve cleaned or replaced the filter, and your air conditioning unit is still not working, contact Number One Plumbing, AC, Solar & Electric for immediate assistance.

Low Refrigerant Level

The refrigerant in your air conditioner system helps cool your home by pulling heat from inside and depositing it outside, leaving the indoor air cooler less humid and more comfortable. If your refrigerant levels are low, you may experience the following symptoms:

• The house is not staying cool enough.
• The system is running continuously or for longer than regular cycles.
• AC turns on, then off quickly, several times in a row (short cycling).

Solution:

Do not attempt to troubleshoot refrigerant issues yourself. If your thermostat settings are correct and the air filter is clean, you may be experiencing a leak or refrigerant-related other problems. Contact your local HVAC technician for help.

Frozen Evaporator Coil

If you have a split-system central air conditioner, the evaporator is part of the air handler unit typically situated in the home or garage. Common signs of a frozen evaporator coil include:

• There is little to no cooling.
• Unusually high utility bills.
• Excessive condensate drainage near your indoor unit.
• Frost or ice forms on copper refrigerant lines from your evaporator coil cabinet.
• Frost forms on exterior refrigerant tubing or the outdoor unit.

Solution:

Frozen evaporators can result from excessive dust, dirt, and other pollutants on the evaporator coil, air filter, outdoor condensing unit, or low refrigerant levels. Evaporator coils are not easily accessible and must be handled by a professional technician. Never attempt to troubleshoot a frozen evaporator coil yourself.

Faulty or Broken Condensing Unit

Typically, condensing units, including the condenser fan, compressor, and electronic controls, sit outside the home. If you have a broken or faulty condensing unit, you may experience the following:

• The condensing unit won’t turn on.
• The unit turns off and on swiftly (short cycling).
• There is little to no cooling coming from the unit.
• The unit runs continuously for long periods.

Solution:

If you’re experiencing a faulty condensing unit, it may be due to an excessively dirty coil or refrigerant leakage. Other potential causes include shrubbery interfering with the unit. Ensure all shrubbery and plants are at least 1 foot away from the unit to keep it clear. Other issues include a faulty run capacitor, a failing condenser fan motor, or a faulty compressor. Contact an HVAC professional for assistance. Never attempt to troubleshoot electrical errors yourself.

Number One Plumbing, AC, Solar & Electric is Your Leading Provider of HVAC Services

With years of dependable HVAC services, Number One Plumbing, AC, Solar & Electric is a trustworthy team. We maintain the highest standard of customer service with true workmanship, efficiency, and quality work. If you’re experiencing air conditioning issues, contact our team immediately and get the best-in-class service you deserve.

We perform exceptional HVAC installation, air conditioning maintenance, and AC repair across Albuquerque. Trust Number One Plumbing, AC, Solar & Electric for reliable and professional HVAC services to provide the best solutions.