In our last blog post, we looked at reasons why your air conditioning system might struggle to keep up with the heat. Today, we’re taking the next step and going to the extreme: when your AC won’t provide any cooling. Either the air coming from the vents is room temperature or the AC will not turn on at all.
What can you do in this situation? We’re always available to help you with air conditioning repair in St. Augustine if you need it. But there are some troubleshooting steps to try first.
Basic Troubleshooting Steps
Check the Thermostat Settings
- Ensure your thermostat is set to “cool” mode.
- Verify the temperature setting is lower than the current room temperature.
- Sometimes, the thermostat might accidentally get set to “heat” or “fan” only, which will prevent your AC from cooling.
Inspect the Air Filter
- A dirty or clogged air filter can restrict airflow and cause your AC to stop cooling effectively.
- Replace the air filter if it appears dirty. It’s recommended to change the filter every 1-3 months during peak usage.
Examine the Circuit Breaker
- Check the circuit breaker panel to see if the breaker for your AC unit has tripped.
- If it has, reset it by turning it off and then back on. If it trips again, there might be a deeper electrical issue that needs professional attention.
Check the Outdoor Unit
- Make sure the outdoor unit (condenser) is free from debris such as leaves, grass, or dirt that could obstruct airflow.
- Ensure the unit has at least two feet of clearance on all sides. Trim any nearby bushes or plants that may be encroaching.
AC Malfunctions
You’ve tried the above, and you’ve still got an AC that won’t cool. This is the time to contact us, and we’ll take care of the diagnosis and repairs. Here are some of the possible malfunctions that can lead to a no-cool AC.
Refrigerant Leaks
- Low refrigerant levels can prevent your AC from cooling properly. Leaks can occur over time or due to damage to the refrigerant lines.
- A professional technician can locate and repair the leak and recharge the refrigerant to the proper levels.
Faulty Compressor
- The compressor is the heart of your AC system, and if it fails, the entire system can stop cooling.
- Compressors can wear out over time or fail due to electrical issues. This is a complex and costly repair that should be handled by a professional.
Electrical Issues
- Wiring problems, blown fuses, or issues with the capacitor can cause your AC to stop working.
- Diagnosing and repairing electrical issues requires specialized knowledge and equipment.
Frozen Evaporator Coils
- Evaporator coils can freeze up if there is insufficient airflow or low refrigerant levels.
- This can be caused by dirty air filters, blocked ducts, or refrigerant leaks. Thawing the coils and addressing the underlying issue is necessary for proper operation.
Malfunctioning Thermostat
- Sometimes, the issue might be with the thermostat itself rather than the AC unit.
- A faulty thermostat may not properly communicate with the AC system. Replacing or recalibrating the thermostat can resolve this problem.
Rely on Climate Masters for Keeping Cool All Summer Long
Our experienced technicians are equipped to diagnose and repair any air conditioning issues, ensuring you stay cool and comfortable all summer long. Contact us today for reliable air conditioning repair.
Rely on Climate Masters for keeping cool all summer long. Serving St. Johns County since 1988 with quality, hometown service.
