A/C Troubleshooting Tips to Keep Your Cool This Summer

Temperatures in Georgia can get pretty high in the summer months, so you can expect your air conditioning to be working overtime. The hope is that your air conditioner keeps you cool from the rising temperatures, but if you run into a problem with your A/C system, don't panic! If your air conditioner suddenly stops working, it may indicate a larger problem, or it can be something as simple as a blown fuse or tripped circuit breaker.

So if you know how to troubleshoot some common issues, you can stay cool—or know when it's time to call in the pros. Although many problems with your air conditioner will require repair by a professional technician, we find that sometimes homeowners can fix simple problems with a bit of troubleshooting.

As a result, we have created the following troubleshooting guide for four of the most common problems you may encounter with your air conditioner. And if you need expert help troubleshooting and repairing your A/C, don't hesitate to contact the HVAC experts at Shumate. We can get your air conditioning back into shape before you know it!

If Your A/C Is Blowing Hot Air...

Your thermostat settings may be to blame. Start by checking the thermostat to make sure it's not set to "heat." Next, make sure the fan is set to AUTO, not ON. If the fan is set to ON, it will run all the time, even when your air conditioner isn't cycling. This pushes warmer air out of your vents because the air is not being conditioned between cooling cycles.

Then, check to see if the batteries in the thermostat need to be replaced. If the thermostat appears to be working, check the circuit breaker for tripped breakers or blown fuses.

If Your A/C Is Making Strange Noises...

Check on the indoor unit. If you notice any leaks, it's time to call in a professional repair service.

If the indoor unit looks fine, check the outdoor unit. Remove any debris within two feet of the unit. If the noise persists, it's a job for the pros.

If Your A/C Just Won't Turn On...

First, check the circuit breaker for any tripped breakers. Then, check the thermostat to see if it's on and if the settings are correct. If the thermostat settings are in order, make your way outside to the condenser unit, which is the outdoor part of the cooling system. Make sure all grass clippings, mulch, leaves, and other yard debris are cleared off the fins. Nothing should be stored within two feet of your condenser. Also, make sure the condenser unit has power. If the indoor blower components are running, but the condenser isn't, your air conditioner won't produce cooling.

If Your A/C Is Cooling Some Rooms But Not Others…

If some areas in the home feel warmer than others, check all vents to ensure airflow to the room is not restricted. To make sure there is nothing blocking the vents, move all furniture, rugs, and other obstructions so they don't cover the vent. Some vents have louvers which allow you to open and shut them — make sure all vent louvers are open.

Also, any disconnected sections or leaks in the duct system will allow conditioned air to escape, so your living areas lose some of the cool air that your air conditioner produces. Keep an eye out for gaps and disconnections and seal them up.

These are just some ways to troubleshoot common A/C problems. If these tips don't restore your A/C or if you'd like some professional help with your cooling system, don't hesitate to reach out to us at Shumate. We'll connect you to one of our experienced technicians to get your A/C running like new again!