DIY AC Troubleshooting

Your AC unit can easily last for over a decade. However, this isn’t something that is automatically going to happen. You’ll need to maintain your system so that it lasts for the long haul. This is particularly important during the summer months when your AC is at its most used and most relied on. Luckily, we have some tips to share with you so you can keep your air conditioner working well.

Here are the solutions to common AC problems:

Inadequate Airflow

You need good airflow in your home for any HVAC system to work properly. If you aren’t feeling any air flowing from your vents, you’ll need to find the source of your malfunction in order to restore climate control in your home.

Check your electricity infrastructure. Regardless of whether you have a fuse box or circuit breaker, you will want to make sure all electrical components are in working order, to ensure your air conditioner has a live supply of power.

As your AC unit runs on an electric motor to power its fan, it requires a steady supply of electricity in order to work as it is intended. If you do not find any lapse in power, this is not the source of your cooling woes and you will need to dive deeper into this troubleshooting process.

Now, it is time to take a look at the unit itself. Maybe there is a mechanical problem causing the fan to malfunction. Remember that there are a lot of moving parts in any HVAC unit, and these components can fail over time. If your HVAC unit is over ten years old, it may be time for a replacement. Aged out units are likely to operate at insufficient levels. Check your installation date before continuing.

If your air conditioner does not appear to be headed towards breakdown, it’s time to check your vents and ducts. Leaks and clogged air filters can impede your cooling efforts. Before contacting a professional for duct repairs, replace your air filters. If this does not rectify your cooling problem, it is time to bring in the professionals to administer duct cleaning and patching.

The Air Coming From My Vents Isn’t Cold

If you notice lukewarm air coming from your vents, your thermostat may be malfunctioning. Or, it may just be set incorrectly. Here is how to ensure your thermostat is properly programmed:

The key is checking your fan setting, as the fan in your thermostat pushes the air into your home. Most systems have three settings: “ON”, “OFF”, and “AUTO”. The distinction between on and auto is imperative. “Auto” only turns the fan on when the AC is running. “On” leaves the fan on no matter what. If you feel lukewarm air coming from your vents and get suspicious, check that you have the fan set to “auto”!

If your settings look correct, and your home is still not reaching your desired temperature, you may have a refrigerant leak or a subsequent problem. Call our pros and we’ll come to restore your home comfort!

My Air Conditioner Makes Strange Noises

Your AC is ultimately a machine. There are a lot of moving parts involved. This will invariably cause some rumbling when the unit is turned on and off. However, if noises persist throughout the cooling cycle, you may have loose parts in your system. If you’re noticing sounds beyond the normal humming, such as loud bangs, or clanking, it is important you contact a professional to come to administer repairs.

My Air Conditioner Smells

We’ve seen all sorts of HVAC problems over the years. That includes the occasional dead rodent! If you’re smelling something foul coming from your vents, it might actually be a dead animal or mold infestation. If you notice a putrid odor, don’t just brush it off! Have the trained technicians at your local HVAC company come check it out!

Centennial Plumbing, Heating & Electrical is here to keep your home’s climate control top-notch! Feel free to give us a call at (306) 500-7392 or fill out an online contact form to set up an appointment for any of your indoor air quality and HVAC maintenance needs!