How to Troubleshoot a Home Air Conditioning Unit

Make sure power is supplied to the unit.

Home air conditioning units are either split systems, where a compressor and condenser coil is mounted outside and an evaporator coil is inside; or they are self-contained, like the units you see mounted in a window. Both types of air conditioning units require similar troubleshooting steps. Problems are often related to power supply; the temperature being too hot or too cold; and maintenance issues like dirty filters.

Instructions

1. Make sure power is supplied to the units. In the case of the window unit, make sure it’s plugged into a wall outlet. In the case of an indoor evaporator coil, blower or other apparatus, check for switches that may be off. Sometimes, the indoor part of a split system will have a wall switch nearby that looks just like a light switch. Verify the outdoor unit is switched on. It too has a switch nearby, although it will be mounted in a weather proof container.

2. Set the thermostat to the temperature you’d like. Be aware of any dead zones in the thermostat. Sometimes, as an economy measure, the air conditioner won’t kick in unless there is a considerable difference between the existing ambient temperature and the thermostat setting. Try picking a temperature well below the ambient temperature, and then increasing the thermostat to something more realistic after the air conditioner has come on.

3. Clean or replace any filters in a home air conditioning unit. Filters can be cleaned or replaced monthly under certain dusty circumstances. Make sure you put the filter in the correct way; there’s often arrow markings to follow. Follow the directions to determine whether to clean the filters (simply wash them under running water and then dry them) or replace them.

References

• Bryant Support Website Troubleshooting Guide
• Frigidaire FAS25ER2A Air Conditioner User Guide