On a hot summer day in Oregon, having access to a cool, air-conditioned home or building is incredibly helpful. But when the air conditioner stops working, it can be frustrating and before long, your indoor temperatures will start rising quickly. If your air conditioning system stops working during a July heat wave, don’t panic right away. Here are some simple troubleshooting tips you can take.
#1: Check the thermostat.
Ensure your thermostat is set to the ‘cool’ position and that the temperature is lower than the current room temperature. If your thermostat uses batteries, replace them to rule out a problem with the power supply.
#2: Clean or replace the filter.
Air filters play a big role in the overall function of your AC system. Did you know that clogged filters can restrict air flow and if severe enough, could even cause the system to overheat or shut off? If your filters haven’t been cleaned or replaced lately, make sure to do that immediately. We recommend cleaning or replacing filters every 1 to 2 months.
#3: Check the circuit breaker.
High temperatures during the summer can be difficult on electrical systems. If you notice that the air conditioning won’t turn on at all, check your home or office circuit breaker to see if there is a tripped breaker. Reset it once to see if that corrects the issue. If it trips again, don’t try resetting it but instead, call our team at Specialty Heating and Cooling for an inspection.
#4: Inspect the exterior unit.
Grass clippings, leaves, dirt, or other outside debris that accumulates around the outdoor unit could block airflow. If that air is obstructed, the unit won’t be able to operate efficiently. So, inspect the outside and ensure there is at least two feet of free space around it.
#5: Call the experts.
If all the above tips don’t get your AC flowing, don’t try to attempt a repair yourself. Working on a cooling system can be very complex and if it is done wrong, it could cause additional damage that could lead to expensive repairs or the voiding of warranties.
Instead, call our team of licensed technicians at Specialty Heating and Cooling. We will work quickly to diagnose the problem and outline what repairs or adjustments need to be made, so you can get back to staying cool and comfortable this July. In the meantime, close blinds and curtains around your home or business to block the flow of direct sunlight, use ceiling and portable fans to circulate cooler air, and stay hydrated. If possible, avoid using appliances that generate heat like ovens or dryers.
For more than 30 years, Specialty Heating and Cooling has worked to keep homes and businesses around Oregon cool all summer long! If your air conditioning needs a repair, tune-up, or it’s time for a full replacement, let us help and contact us today! We look forward to working with you.