Check your owner’s manual to ensure your settings are correct. Sounds simple enough, typically the thermostat is set to on and cool or auto and cool. Check your batteries. When was the last time you changed the batteries in your thermostat? In many models, batteries power the thermostat. If the batteries are old, the thermostat will not receive power.

Air filters are intended to trap dirt and contaminants before they are drawn into your air conditioning unit. If an air filter gets dirty and clogged, it will block airflow to the air handler and seriously limit your AC’s cooling power. So, how often should you change your air filter? There are no set rules when it comes to changing your filter. First and foremost, if it looks dirty, then it needs to be changed. For basic filters, manufacturers recommend changing them every 30 to 60 days. If you suffer from allergies or have pets in your home, you may need to change them more often. If you have no pets, live alone or have a vacation property, you may not need to change them as frequently.

From mulch and branches to leaves and clippings, obstructions on and around your exterior unit can block airflow, causing your air conditioner to not cool your home as effectively as it should. Compete an inspection of your exterior unit and remove all debris. Check your unit on a regular basis to ensure it remains free of obstructions.

Air ducts deliver cool air throughout your home.  Large or small leaks in your duct work can reduce the efficiency of your air conditioner by allowing air to escape.  Your home will not get as cool as it needs to attain your set temperature.  Additionally, poorly functioning duct work can also impact your air quality and can be a reason you are seeing higher utility bills.  A professional HVAC contractor can inspect your air ducts and provide services to seal the leaks.

Air Conditioners that are overheating draw more electricity than the circuit breaker can process causing the breaker to trip. The breaker protects your unit from damage or a possible fire by shutting off the power when an overload is sensed. Unless you turned the breaker off yourself, something is causing the breaker to trip. Don’t disregard this, something is not right. Be safe and contact a professional to determine the origin of the problem and provide a solution to fix the problem.

Clogged drain lines are common and will stop your air conditioning unit from working. When the clogs are cleared the unit will resume its normal function of cooling your home. Air conditioners extract moisture from the air and deposit the moisture into the condensate pan. The moisture in the pan travels down the drain. The drain line typically functions well, but it can get clogged. When the drain is clogged, moisture collects.

What are the signs that you have a clogged drain line?

• You notice more standing water than usual.
• The condensate pan continues to fill up.
• You notice water spots close to the fan, on the floor, or around your unit.

Clogged drain lines need to be unclogged quickly. As water collects, water damage can occur as well as the presence of mold, mildew, and bacteria.