Summers in White Plains can get uncomfortably muggy, which you’ve probably realized if your air conditioner has given up the ghost. Why is your cooling system refusing to do its job? The culprit could be something simple that’s easy to fix, or it may be an issue that requires professional repair.
Below, learn what to do when your AC stops working, then call us for AC services in White Plains, NY.
Top Reasons for Air Conditioner Failure and What To Do When Your AC Stops Working in White Plains, NY
If your air conditioner has quit working, can you fix it yourself? That depends on what caused the problem. Some common issues don’t necessarily require professional expertise to repair, while others will need help from an expert HVAC contractor. Here’s a list of the most common HVAC problems and what to do about them.
The Filter Is Dirty and Needs Replacing
Your home’s air may look clean, but it’s littered with contaminants like dust, pollen, pet dander, and other stuff you certainly don’t want to breathe in. These contaminants can clog your air conditioner’s sensitive parts and cause it to break down. To prevent this, the system relies on an air filter to trap debris.
Over time, the filter can become so dirty that the air conditioner may struggle to cool your home. Fail to address the problem, and the unit might even overheat, leading to cooling system failure. This is why regular filter replacements are a must. In cases where the system has suffered repeated strain from a neglected filter, AC replacement may ultimately be the more practical and cost-effective path forward.
Typically, air filters need replacing every 30 to 90 days, although some can last up to one year. Replace your filter according to the manufacturer’s instructions to keep your system humming along.
Your Thermostat Might Need Attention
Wondering what to do when your AC stops working? The good news is that nothing may be wrong with the unit itself. Rather, your thermostat may be to blame.
First, check that you’ve set the desired temperature on the thermostat. If the thermostat has no power, try replacing the batteries. Thermostat still won’t turn on? You may have a clogged condensate drain line, which will trigger a safety mechanism to prevent damage to the unit. The system and the thermostat won’t have power until you fix it.
Improper calibration is another common problem with thermostats. If you have a programmable or smart thermostat, it may come with an automatic calibration feature. Mechanical thermostats have a small screw that you can turn for calibration.
The Outdoor Unit Requires Cleaning
Most people don’t enjoy doing yard work, but it’s part of keeping your air conditioner in working order. Neglect your yard for too long, and the unit can become clogged with weeds, tree branches, and soil. Should that happen, the air conditioner has to work much harder to do its job, and it may eventually shut down.
Luckily, there’s a simple fix. Regularly inspect the area around your outdoor unit and keep it clear of debris that could cause a blockage. That includes leaves, grass clippings, shrubbery, etc.
The Refrigerant Levels Are Low
Your air conditioner uses a chemical called refrigerant to cool the coils. When air blows over those coils, it cools down before being pushed through the ducts into your home. If the refrigerant is low, you’ll probably feel warm air blowing through your vents.
Wondering what to do when your AC stops working due to low refrigerant? It’s possible to check the refrigerant levels if you have the right equipment. However, don’t attempt to replace the coolant yourself. This hazardous chemical requires special training to work with, so call us for air conditioner repair in White Plains, NY.
Your Air Conditioner Has a Faulty Part
AC not working even though you’ve tried the above fixes? There may be something more serious going on with the unit, such as a faulty blower motor or compressor. Unless you have experience with air conditioner repairs, you won’t be able to fix the issue yourself.
This is where our experienced HVAC contractors come in. We can repair any issue with your air conditioner, no matter how complicated. And if you’d rather not repair the unit, we also offer air conditioner replacement.
Stop Worrying About What To Do When Your AC Stops Working and Call Our Experts in White Plains, NY
Now that you’ve learned what to do when your AC stops working, do you need help with AC maintenance in White Plains, NY? Call Wesco 53 Heating & Cooling for AC troubleshooting and repairs, or keep reading to learn about the top AC repair myths debunked.