Troubleshooting Your AC

It’s humid here in Boston, and when summer hits, we all need a cool space to escape the summer sun. However, with an increase in the temperature outside comes an increase in air conditioning demand. Our AC systems are kicked into high gear each summer, and with that, breakdowns can occur. With around-the-clock cooling needs, it is imperative to know how to repair any small malfunctions, so you are not left sweating it out.

CJ here, with your AC troubleshooting tips! This guide will help you determine the source of your cooling debacle, how to repair it, and when it is time to bring in the big guns, a.k.a. Winters® Home Services.

General System Overlook

Step 1: Double-check that your thermostat is set to your desired temperature with its “fan” function turned “on”. If you have a smart thermostat, and you have scheduled cooling schedules, these pre-sets can override your current cooling efforts. Simply reset your thermostat to circumvent this issue.

Step 2: Go to your condenser unit, which is located outside, and make sure there are no leaves or debris built-up on, or around, your system. Then, make sure there are no concerning sounds coming from your unit and that warm air is blowing out of the top of your condenser. If you do hear weird banging and clanking, or cool air is being released from your unit, contact a professional HVAC technician ASAP—you may need a new fan motor or have loose parts that need securing!

Step 3: Head back inside to assess your ventilation. If you have not encountered any issues up to this point, your space should begin to cool down. However, if your indoor temperature does not drop, walk around and make sure your air vents are open and unobstructed. If they are free from any furniture or art, and your cooling is still not sufficient, here’s what you need to do next:

Assess Your Thermostat

If your thermostat is malfunctioning, your air conditioner will not operate properly. Confirm that your thermostat has an active power supply, reset your technology, and then head back over to one of your air vents to check for airflow. If cool air is now coming out of your delivery system, the source of your cooling problem was simply a technology glitch. Yet, if you are still not receiving adequate cooling, try this next:

Investigate Your Ventilation

Air leaks are the main source of cooling woes in residential properties. If air is continuously seeping out of your home, through cracks in your ductwork or breaches in insulation, your cooling will not be successful.

If you believe you have any tears or blockages within your ductwork, contact HVAC professionals to administer your repairs.

Check Your Refrigerant Line

If your air pressure is sufficient, but it is delivered lukewarm, your refrigerant line is likely the source of your cooling issues. Look for leaks, tears, or breaches in insulation along your refrigerant line. If you hear hissing or jingling coming from your system, this is a good indication that your refrigerant line is compromised. Once your refrigerant levels are restored and your line patched, you will achieve the cooling you desire.

For air conditioning services, contact Winters Home Services at 617-221-5899. We are here for your cooling needs all summer long.