The crickets are chirping, everyone’s sweaty from a day at the beach and ready to cool down…but the house is hot as a sandwich left on the dashboard all day. The AC won’t turn on—or it’s on and blowing hot air.

UGH.  If it’s home, you may be able to go somewhere else for a day or two while the technicians fix the problem.  But if it’s a vacation rental, a problem like this can ruin the trip. You can  make sure this doesn’t happen to your family—or guests—by signing up for a service plan that stops problems before they happen.  

But if things go wrong, try the following.  If they don’t sort things out, you’ll need to call your HVAC company.

Check the thermostat

Your thermostat is the brain of your AC system.  If it’s not set correctly or malfunctioning, your AC won’t work properly.

• Verify settings: Ensure the thermostat is set to “cool” and the fan to “on” or “auto.” If someone accidentally turned it off or changed the setting, this could be the problem.
• Consider a faulty thermostat: If the thermostat seems fine but the AC isn’t working, the device itself might be faulty. Your HVAC expert can confirm this and replace it if necessary. Sometimes, the AC system is perfectly fine, but a broken thermostat is the culprit.

Inspect both parts of the AC unit

Central AC systems have two main components: the indoor unit and the outdoor unit.

• Look for ice buildup: Ice on either component could indicate issues like low refrigerant or restricted airflow. Both problems can prevent your AC from cooling properly.
• Clear debris: For the outdoor unit, check for leaves, dirt, or debris blocking the airflow. A clogged unit can overheat and shut down.

Replace or clean the air filter

There’s a reason we keep saying it: a dirty air filter is one of the most common reasons AC systems stop working. The filter allows clean, unrestricted airflow, which is essential for efficient cooling.

• Check the filter: If it’s black or clogged, replace it. A clean filter is typically white.
• How often to replace? Most filters should be replaced every one to three months, but it depends on usage and environmental factors. You can find replacement filters at local hardware stores—just make sure you get the correct size.

Troubleshoot power issues

• Check the circuit breaker: Sometimes, the AC stops because the circuit breaker tripped. Could you have done that during troubleshooting? It’s possible, if your system is too stressed and working too hard. Reset it if necessary.
• Inspect the Power Supply: Ensure the unit is plugged in and receiving power.

Call an HVAC professional

If troubleshooting doesn’t fix the issue, it’s time to call in the experts.

• Provide details: When contacting your HVAC company, describe the problem in detail. For example, let them know if the system isn’t turning on, is blowing warm air, or has ice buildup.
• Schedule quickly: HVAC professionals are busiest during summer, so the sooner you call, the faster you’ll get service.  Better yet, sign up for a service plan so you don’t have to go through these headaches in the first place!

Stay Cool

If your home is heating up, here are some tips to stay comfortable while waiting for your repair technician”:

• Use fans: Turn on ceiling fans or portable fans to circulate air.
• Block heat: Close curtains or blinds to keep sunlight out.
• Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water to prevent dehydration.
• Cool your body: Take cool showers or use damp towels on your neck and wrists. Avoid cooking with the oven to minimize additional heat.  Sitting in an empty tub will also draw heat away, making it easier to rest.

Prevent Future Problems

Avoid future breakdowns by maintaining your AC system:

• Replace filters regularly: A fresh filter ensures proper airflow and reduces strain on the system.
• Sign up for scheduled service: Have a professional clean and inspect your system periodically. This helps catch potential problems early and keeps your unit running efficiently.

When your AC breaks in July, it’s no fun, even if you have a pool.  But following these steps can help you stay cool and address the problem promptly. Remember: proactive maintenance is key to keeping your home comfortable all summer long! 

Is your AC busted?  Contact MJ Heating and Air Conditioning at mjheatingac.com