How to Troubleshoot Central Air Conditioners

In the hot summer months it's important to stay cool and hydrated. Water will keep you hydrated and a central air conditioner will keep you cool. If you have a problem with your air conditioner, troubleshoot the unit before making a service call. Follow these steps to help you troubleshoot your central air conditioner.

Instructions

1. Look at selector switch. Make sure that the selector switch is on "auto" or "on" and set in the cool position. If the selector switch is not where you want it, then set it to your desired position.

2. Check the power to your unit. You may have a tripped circuit breaker. Go to the circuit breaker panel to see if this is the case. If the breaker is tripped, then flip the switch. This shouldn't happen very often.

3. Move thermostat. Set the thermostat below the temperature of the room. This should turn the central air conditioner on and begin to cool your room down. You should hear the fans running in your central air conditioner when it's running. There is a fan outside and one inside, they should both be running when the unit is working properly.

4. Go to your central air conditioner unit. Your central air conditioner should be located either in your attic, utility closet, or basement. Once you've located your central air conditioner check to see if your unit is plugged in. Also, check to see if your condenser is clogged. If the unit is clogged, then call a repairman to your home.

5. Reset your central air conditioner. Find the reset button on your central air conditioner. Once you find it press it in to refresh your unit.

Tips & Warnings

• If your central air conditioner does not respond to troubleshooting, then call a service technician.

• Change your air filter regularly.