Diagnosing a problem and finishing your own AC repair in Narvon, Pennsylvania, can seem like a lot of guessing.

It doesn’t have to be like that. There are a couple of fast fixes you can attempt without help that may help you bypass an AC service call.

When you’re experiencing air conditioning problems, follow this diagnostic list before calling a heating and cooling repair pro like Ameri-Tec.

Our experts are here at 717-479-4950 when you need professional service. We provide emergency AC repair and work on most brands of central air conditioners.

If you need an updated air conditioning system, we also provide AC installation.

When you’re talking with us, contemplate a yearly AC maintenance plan that might help you steer clear from future problems. We can advise how often you need air conditioner service.

Ready to start troubleshooting your air conditioner? Try our fast guide below. Many of these procedures don’t need any HVAC experience.

Air Conditioner Repair Checklist

1. AC Won’t Turn On

There can be a few reasons why your air conditioning system won’t start: a blown circuit breaker, incorrect thermostat settings, a turned off switch or a full condensate drain pan.

Triggered Circuit Breaker

Your air conditioning won’t run when you have a tripped breaker.

To find out if one has blown, find your house’s main electrical panel. You can locate this metallic box on the wall in the basement, garage or closet.

  • Confirm your hands and feet aren’t wet before you work on the panel or breakers.
  • Find the breaker marked “AC” and ensure it’s in the “on” spot. If it’s tripped the switch will be in the middle of the panel or “off” position.
  • Quickly transfer the switch back to the “on” spot. If it immediately flips again, don’t touch it and contact us at 717-479-4950. A breaker that keeps turning off could mean your home has an electrical problem.

Incorrect Thermostat Settings

If your thermostat isn’t telling your equipment to start, it won’t switch on.

The most important part is ensuring it’s on “cool” and not “heat.” Otherwise your AC will probably not turn on. Or you could have. hot air moving from vents being the heat is running instead.

If you rely on a traditional thermostat:

  • Swap out the batteries if the monitor is clear. If the monitor is presenting scrambled letters, buy a new thermostat.
  • Ensure the correct mode is showing. If you can’t update it, override it by decreasing the temperature and hitting the “hold” button. This will force your AC to work if programming is wrong.
  • Attempt to set the thermostat 5 degrees colder than the house’s temperature. Your AC won’t cool if the thermostat matches the room’s temperature.

Once your thermostat is calibrated accurately, you should receive refreshing air quickly.

If you rely on a smart thermostat, including ones produced by Nest, Ecobee, Lux, Honeywell or Bosch, check the manufacturer’s website for help. If you’re still having problems, call us at 717-479-4950 for assistance.

Shut-Off Switch

Your air conditioner usually has a shut-down device near its outdoor unit. This switch is commonly in a metal box mounted on your residence. If your AC has recently been worked on, the switch may have unintentionally been left in the “off” position.

Blocked Condensate Drain Pan