
I've been there too - dealing with a malfunctioning aircon can be a real heatwave of frustration. Your aircon's thermostat can get stuck, causing it to run continuously, which is why it's essential to check the thermostat's settings and ensure it's set to "auto" mode.
A faulty aircon filter can also cause issues, so make sure to inspect and clean or replace it regularly. This simple step can make a huge difference in your aircon's performance.
If your aircon is not turning on, check if the power cord is securely plugged in and if the circuit breaker hasn't tripped. This is often an easy fix that can get your aircon up and running in no time.
Troubleshooting
Troubleshooting is an essential step in resolving aircon issues. If your aircon is not turning on, check the outdoor breaker fuse to ensure it's positioned correctly.
A tripped breaker in your electrical panel can also prevent your aircon from working. So, check your electrical panel to see if any breakers have tripped.
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Your thermostat setting might be the culprit if your aircon is not working. Double-check that it's set to cooling mode and not heat, and that the temperature isn't set too high.
Here are some common issues to check:
- Outdoor breaker fuse position
- Tripped breaker in electrical panel
- Thermostat setting
- Clogged air filter
- Condensate pump operation
If you've checked these and all seems fine, it might be time to consider replacing your aircon if it's older than 12 years.
Why Not Turning On?
If your air conditioner is not turning on, there are a few things you can check before calling in a professional. Make sure the outdoor breaker fuse is positioned correctly, as this is a common issue that can easily be resolved.
Checking your electrical panel is also crucial, as a tripped breaker can prevent your AC from working. A tripped breaker is usually easy to identify, but if you're unsure, it's always a good idea to consult your electrical panel's user manual.
Confirm that your thermostat is switched on, as this might seem obvious but is often overlooked. Ensure that the thermostat is set to "cool" mode and that the temperature is set below the current room temperature.
A clogged air filter can also prevent your AC from working, so check and replace it if necessary. This is a simple task that can make a big difference in your AC's performance.
If you have a condensate pump, check that it's operating properly, as a faulty pump can prevent your AC from working.
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Why Not Cool the House?
You might be wondering why not cooling the house to its lowest possible temperature is actually a good idea. Simply put, it's because it puts unnecessary strain on your air conditioner.
A good indicator that your AC works efficiently is if the ambient temperature drops at least one degree every 20 minutes. This means you don't need to cool the house to an icy temperature.
High ambient temperature adds great strain on the air conditioner when it needs to cool the home, causing it to run almost non-stop. This can lead to a shorter lifespan for your AC unit.
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Fan Not Working
If the fan on your AC unit stops working, it could be something as simple as your circuit breaker tripping.
A burnt-out condenser fan motor is a common issue that can cause your fan to stop working. It's a sign that the motor has worn out due to excessive use.
Intermittently running fans, slow-turning fan blades, or a fan that won't turn can be a sign the motor has an issue. This is a time when you'll need to call an HVAC technician.
Regular maintenance and reducing dirt and dust in and around your system can help prevent AC fan motor burnouts.
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Pump Failure
A failing or failed condensate pump will often trip the AC so that it won’t run and create a pool of water wherever the AC is.
Check if your condensate pump is failing by looking for signs like a pool of water forming near the AC unit. This can be a sign that the pump is not working properly.
To test the condensate pump, make sure there is some water in the basin and press the test button to ensure it pumps the water out.
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Take Action
If your air conditioner isn't turning on, check the outdoor breaker fuse to make sure it's positioned correctly.
Make sure to inspect your electrical panel for a tripped breaker, as this is a common culprit. If you find a tripped breaker, simply reset it and see if your AC turns on.
Check your thermostat to ensure it's switched on and set to the right mode. A simple mistake here can cause a lot of frustration.
A clogged air filter is another common issue that can prevent your AC from turning on. Check and replace the filter if it's dirty.
If your AC is older than 12 years, it may be time to consider replacing it, as it may no longer be functioning efficiently.
If your AC fan stops working, it could be due to a tripped circuit breaker or a more complex issue.
Here are some steps to take before running your AC after it's been unused for a while:
- Check the compressor unit outside for debris buildup or blockages.
- Run your AC in fan mode for at least 10 minutes to circulate air and remove dust.
- Clean or replace your filters to ensure good airflow.
- Look for refrigerant leaks, which can impact your AC's performance.
Remember to take action and maintain your AC regularly to ensure it runs efficiently and effectively.
Maintenance
Regular maintenance is key to keeping your aircon running smoothly and efficiently. You should check and replace your HVAC filter every month or two during the cooling season, or more frequently if you have pets or live in a dusty area.
Cleaning or replacing your air filter can save you money and stress in the long run. A dirty air filter can cause a host of problems, including higher energy bills and a reduced lifespan for your aircon.
Here are some essential maintenance tasks to perform regularly:
- Check for debris around the outdoor unit, like leaves, dirt, or branches, that could be blocking airflow.
- Clean or replace your air filters.
- Run your AC in fan mode before turning it to cool to ensure you've cleaned dust and debris out of the system.
- Inspect the seal between the air conditioner and the window frame at the start of each cooling season.
- Clear the unit's drain channels periodically with a stiff wire to prevent clogs.
Types and Maintenance
Filters are a crucial part of your air conditioner's maintenance. They should be cleaned or replaced regularly, depending on the type and usage.
Reusable filters can be cleaned with a soft brush and mild detergent, but disposable filters should be replaced every 1-3 months.
If you're unsure about the type of filter you have, it's best to follow the manufacturer's guidelines or consult with a professional HVAC contractor.
In general, it's a good idea to clean or replace filters every month or two during the cooling season. However, if your air conditioner is in constant use, exposed to dusty conditions, or if you have pets, you may need to check and replace filters more frequently.
Here's a rough guide to help you keep track of filter maintenance:
Remember, regular filter maintenance can help improve your air conditioner's performance, reduce energy bills, and prevent costly repairs.
Window Seals
Window Seals are crucial to keeping cool air inside your house.
Inspect the seal between the air conditioner and the window frame at the start of each cooling season.
A damaged seal can cause cool air to escape, wasting energy and money.
Ensure the seal is intact to prevent this from happening.
This is a simple but effective maintenance task that can make a big difference in your energy bills.
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Preparation
Before turning on your aircon after it's been unused for a while, you'll want to take some precautions to ensure it runs smoothly and efficiently.
First, walk outside and inspect your compressor unit. Check for any weeds, debris, or animal nests that could be blocking it. Remove any obstructions to prevent damage to your aircon.
If you haven't already, schedule a professional maintenance check to keep your aircon in top shape. This is especially important if you live in extreme environments like Nevada or Arizona, where maintenance should be done twice a year.
To clean out any dust and debris, run your aircon in fan mode for at least 10 minutes before switching to cool. This will help ensure a smooth start-up and prevent any potential issues.
It's also essential to check and clean or replace your air filters to prevent problems with your aircon's performance. Dirty filters can cause issues with your fan or compressor, leading to premature failure.
Here are some key steps to keep in mind:
- Remove debris from the compressor unit
- Schedule a professional maintenance check
- Run the aircon in fan mode for 10 minutes
- Clean or replace air filters
Thermostat Not Set Properly
In Portland, where summer temperatures can be unpredictable, it's vital to double-check your thermostat settings before assuming your AC is broken.
Check to make sure it is not set to heat or that the temperature isn’t set too high. A temperature setting that's too high can put unnecessary strain on your air conditioner.
For most homes, a comfortable temperature is around 73-75 degrees. Make sure this number is lower than the ambient temperature inside the home.
As your air conditioner works, keep an eye on the thermostat to see if the home temperature is actually dropping. A good indicator that your AC works efficiently is if the ambient temperature drops at least one degree every 20 minutes.
High ambient temperatures add great strain on the air conditioner when it needs to cool the home, causing it to run almost non-stop.
Preparing for Winter
As the weather starts to cool down, it's time to think about preparing your air conditioner for the winter months. Cover or remove and store your room air conditioner to protect it from winter weather and debris.

If you have a central air conditioner, make sure to cover the outdoor unit to shield it from harsh winter conditions. Don't cover the outdoor condensing unit of a heat pump, as this will prevent it from properly heating your home in the winter.
It's always a good idea to check with a qualified HVAC contractor if you're unsure about how to protect your outdoor system. They can provide you with expert advice and ensure your system is ready for the changing seasons.
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Prepare for Off Season
As winter approaches, it's essential to prepare your air conditioning system for the off-season. Cover or remove and store your room air conditioner to protect it from winter weather and debris. If you have a central air conditioner, cover the outdoor unit to shield it from harsh weather conditions.
Before storing your air conditioner, make sure to check if it's a heat pump. If it is, do not cover the outdoor condensing unit, as this can prevent the system from properly heating your home in the winter.
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To ensure your air conditioner is ready for the off-season, perform a quick inspection of the outdoor unit. Remove any debris, weeds, or blockages that may be obstructing the compressor unit.
Regular maintenance is also crucial. If you didn't have your air conditioner maintained last season, have it done before storing it for the winter. Consider signing up for an air conditioning maintenance plan with a reputable service provider.
Here's a quick checklist to help you prepare your air conditioner for the off-season:
- Remove and store your room air conditioner
- Check if you have a heat pump and do not cover the outdoor condensing unit
- Inspect and clean the outdoor compressor unit
- Have your air conditioner maintained by a professional
Inspection
Regularly inspecting your aircon is crucial to ensure it's working properly.
Checking your air filter is a good place to start. You should change it based on the instructions provided in your unit's manual. This will help your unit run smoothly and keep the air you breathe clean.
The evaporator coil can also collect dirt over time, even with a clean filter. A qualified HVAC contractor can help with regular maintenance, including inspecting and cleaning the coil as needed.
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Filter Inspection
Filter Inspection is a crucial step in maintaining your air conditioning unit. Regularly checking your air filter can ensure your unit runs properly and you breathe in clean air.
Dirty air filters can impede airflow and cause a host of problems, including higher energy bills and a malfunctioning HVAC system. In Portland's mix of pollen and wildfire smoke, keeping your air filter clean is especially important.
Changing your air filter regularly can help you avoid future problems or save money and stress with routine maintenance. Most professionally installed ACs will not have reset buttons, but they will have a circuit breaker. If you have an older home, check your breaker box and upgrade if needed.
Here are some signs that your air filter needs to be cleaned or replaced:
- Dirt or debris buildup on the filter
- Reduced airflow or increased energy bills
- Visible stains or discoloration on air vents or registers
Check if condenser is on
To check if your condenser is on, you need to go outside and see if it's turned on. The condenser is usually the unit that sits outside your home and is responsible for the refrigeration process that helps cool the air.
The condenser should be emitting warm to hot air that has been displaced from inside your home, so check if there's air blowing out of it. Place your hand about a foot above it to feel the air. If there's no air, the condenser is not working.
A correctly functioning air conditioner has a condenser emitting warm to hot air, and the warmer the air is, the more heat is being removed from inside your home. If the air feels cool, it means your air conditioner is not removing any heat from inside your home.
Outdoor condenser coils can become very dirty, especially in dusty environments or if there's foliage nearby, so make sure to keep the area around the condenser unit clean. Remove debris and trim foliage back at least two feet to ensure adequate airflow.
Watch for smells
Watch for smells.
Be cautious of odors coming directly from the air conditioning system.
The evaporator coils are a region to be wary of.
These coils are prone to biological growth due to their swamp-like conditions.
Constant moisture collection is a result of the evaporator coils' prime role in air conditioning.
The coils receive no light, making it a perfect breeding ground for bacteria.
Biological growth may accumulate and begin a stench coming from inside the air conditioner.
Have your HVAC technician visit for a deep cleaning to eliminate all growth.
UV lamps and air cleaning products can be used to destroy potential bacteria and airborne particles.
They can also prevent microbiological growth in the air conditioner.
Expert Advice
My aircon is a complex system, and regular maintenance is crucial to ensure it runs efficiently and effectively.
You should change the aircon filter every 1 to 3 months, depending on usage, to prevent dust buildup and maintain airflow.
A clogged aircon filter can increase energy consumption by up to 20%.
Service Champions: California Experts
Service Champions are California's trusted experts in air conditioning and heating. They train for 150 hours each year in their private training facility.
Their technicians learn new technology and techniques, and hands-on practice ensures they come prepared to service your central air system with the most advanced methods available.
Regular maintenance with Service Champions can prevent costly replacements and repairs, and save you from personal inconvenience.
You can schedule a visit at a time most convenient for you by calling one of their friendly representatives.
When to Call an HVAC Pro
Safety should always be your top priority when it comes to your HVAC system. If you've hit a wall in your troubleshooting measures, it's time to contact a professional.
Trying to "limp along" can cause more damage to your system, increasing repair costs in the long run. This is especially true if you're not sure what you're doing.
If you're unsure about what to do, it's better to err on the side of caution and turn off your system. This will prevent any potential damage from getting worse.
Here are some signs that you need to call an HVAC professional:
- Air conditioning issues
- HVAC system problems
- Energy efficiency concerns
General
Having a reliable air conditioning system is crucial for staying cool and comfortable, especially during hot summer months.
Regular maintenance can help prevent emergency AC breakdowns, saving you time and money in the long run.
You can schedule a tune-up with a professional, like the consultants at Jacobs Heating & Air Conditioning, to keep your system running smoothly.
Their team can examine your system and determine what repairs need to be made, ensuring your air conditioning system is in top condition.
A well-maintained air conditioning system can last longer and perform better, making it a worthwhile investment for your home or business.
By staying on top of maintenance, you can avoid the stress and hassle of dealing with a broken air conditioning system.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the meaning of aircon?
Aircon is short for air conditioning, a process that cools and dehumidifies enclosed spaces to achieve a comfortable temperature. It's a simple yet effective way to beat the heat and stay cool.
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