When your air conditioner stops cooling your home effectively, it can be stressful, especially during the warm months here in Bay City and the Tri-City Area. Before you rush to schedule a repair, there are some simple things you can check yourself. Doing a few basic troubleshooting steps can help you understand what might be wrong and sometimes avoid an unnecessary service call. At Custom Engineering, we aim to provide helpful, approachable guidance so you feel confident about your AC system and know when to call the experts.
If your air conditioner is not turning on at all, making strange noises, or leaking water, please do not wait. Contact our trusted technicians right away for professional air conditioner repair services that can help keep your home comfortable.
1. Check the Thermostat Settings
The thermostat controls your air conditioner, so starting here makes sense. Sometimes the problem is as simple as a wrong setting or dead batteries. Before calling for repairs, make sure:
- Your thermostat is set to “cool” mode, not “heat” or “off.”
- The temperature setting is lower than the current room temperature, so the AC knows to turn on.
- If your thermostat is battery-powered, check and replace the batteries if needed.
- For programmable thermostats, ensure the schedule has not been accidentally changed or overridden.
- Clean the thermostat face gently with a dry cloth if it appears dusty, which can affect sensor readings.
If the thermostat is malfunctioning, the AC may not turn on or cool properly. If adjusting the settings or replacing batteries does not resolve the issue, it could be a sign of a thermostat fault or wiring issue that requires professional inspection.
2. Inspect Your Circuit Breaker
Your air conditioner relies on electricity from your home’s electrical panel. A tripped circuit breaker can cut power and prevent the system from operating. Here are some steps to check your breaker safely:
- Find your home’s electrical panel, usually in a garage, basement, or utility room.
- Identify the breaker switch labeled for the air conditioner or HVAC system.
- If the breaker has switched to the “off” position or appears in a middle position, switch it fully off and then back on.
- If the breaker trips again shortly after resetting, this could indicate an electrical issue such as an overloaded circuit or a short.
Electricity can be dangerous, so if you are uncomfortable handling breakers, it is best to leave this step to a professional electrician or HVAC technician. Persistent breaker trips should not be ignored, as they may signal underlying electrical problems that could damage your AC or create safety hazards.
3. Clean or Replace Air Filters
One of the easiest ways to keep your air conditioner running well is by regularly changing or cleaning the air filters. Dirty or clogged filters restrict airflow, forcing the system to work harder and reducing its ability to cool your home efficiently.
Follow these guidelines for filter maintenance:
- Locate your air filter, typically found in the return air vent or inside the indoor blower compartment.
- Remove the filter and hold it up to the light to check for heavy dust or dirt buildup.
- Replace disposable filters according to the manufacturer’s recommendations—usually every 1 to 3 months.
- If you have a reusable filter, clean it according to the instructions, usually by rinsing with water and letting it dry completely before reinstalling.
- Regular filter maintenance not only improves cooling performance but also helps maintain better indoor air quality.
Skipping this simple step is one of the most common reasons air conditioners lose effectiveness. Clean filters reduce strain on your system and can help extend its lifespan.
4. Check the Outdoor Unit
The outdoor condenser unit is an essential part of your air conditioning system. It expels heat from inside your home, so it must have proper airflow to function well. Before calling for repair, inspect the outdoor unit with these tips:
- Make sure there are no leaves, grass clippings, dirt, or other debris around or on top of the unit.
- Remove any objects, plants, or bushes within at least 2 feet of clearance to allow free airflow.
- Examine the exterior of the unit for visible damage such as bent fins or corrosion.
- With the power off, gently hose down the fins to remove dirt buildup. Do not use high-pressure water or sharp tools, which can damage the delicate fins.
- Check that the fan on top of the unit is spinning freely and not obstructed.
If the unit looks dirty or blocked, cleaning and clearing the area may restore normal function. However, if you notice physical damage or the unit still does not run correctly after cleaning, it is time to call a professional technician.
5. Inspect Drain Lines for Clogs
Your air conditioner produces condensation as it cools the air. This moisture drains through a condensate line to prevent water buildup inside your home. Over time, drain lines can clog with algae, mold, or debris. To check and clear your drain lines:
- Locate the drain pipe near the indoor AC unit or furnace.
- Look for water pooling around the drain line or any leaks.
- Use a wet/dry vacuum to suck out clogs from the drain pipe if you feel comfortable doing so.
- Alternatively, a mixture of water and vinegar poured into the drain line may help prevent algae buildup.
- Persistent drainage problems can cause water damage and may require professional cleaning.
Keeping your drain line clear is important for safe, efficient operation of your air conditioner and can prevent costly water damage to your home.
6. Listen for Unusual Noises
Your air conditioner usually operates quietly, so any strange sounds can be a clue that something is wrong. Pay attention to the following:
- Buzzing or humming noises could indicate electrical issues.
- Grinding or squealing sounds may mean worn or loose motor parts.
- Rattling noises could be from loose panels, screws, or debris inside the unit.
- Hissing sounds sometimes point to refrigerant leaks, which require immediate professional service.
- Clicking noises might occur if the unit is struggling to start.
If you hear any of these noises consistently, it is best not to delay a professional inspection. Early diagnosis can help avoid further damage or breakdowns.
By performing these six checks, many common air conditioning problems can be identified early or even resolved without a service call. However, some issues require professional knowledge and tools.
Need Expert Help? Contact Us Today!
If you’ve tried these troubleshooting tips and your AC still isn’t performing as it should, or if you want to schedule regular maintenance to prevent future issues, we are here to assist.
Use our online contact form or call (989) 474-2870 to get in touch with friendly, professional HVAC technicians you can count on.