There’s nothing more frustrating than an air conditioner that stops working, especially on a hot day. So, why does it happen, and what can you do about it?
Let’s explore the common reasons and solutions to help you stay cool and comfortable.
Common Reasons Your Air Conditioner Stops Working
Power Issues
Sometimes, the issue isn’t with the AC itself but with its power source. For example, a tripped circuit breaker or a blown fuse can stop the air conditioner from running. Therefore, double-check your electrical panel to rule this out.
Dirty Filters
Air filters that are clogged with dirt and dust restrict airflow. As a result, the system can overheat and shut down. Regularly cleaning or replacing filters can prevent this problem.
Thermostat Malfunction
If the thermostat isn’t working properly, it can cause the air conditioner to stop functioning. For instance, check the settings and ensure the thermostat has working batteries or isn’t in need of replacement.
Refrigerant Leaks
Refrigerant is essential for cooling. Leaks can cause the system to lose efficiency or stop working altogether. Moreover, low refrigerant levels can also damage the compressor over time.
Dirty Coils
The evaporator and condenser coils play a key role in heat exchange. Consequently, when these coils get dirty, they can’t work efficiently, causing the system to fail.
Compressor Issues
The compressor is the heart of your air conditioner. If it fails due to wear and tear, overheating, or lack of maintenance, the entire system can stop working.
Blocked Drain Lines
Your air conditioner removes humidity from the air, which turns into water that drains out. However, if the drain line is clogged, water can back up and cause the system to shut off.
What to Do When Your Air Conditioner Stops Working
Here are some steps you can take to troubleshoot the problem:
Check the Power
Ensure the AC unit is plugged in. Also, check your circuit breaker for any tripped switches and reset it if necessary.
Inspect the Thermostat
Confirm that the thermostat is set to “Cool” and the temperature is set lower than the current room temperature. Additionally, replace batteries if needed.
Clean or Replace the Filter
Dirty filters can cause overheating and system failure. For this reason, replace the filter and see if the AC starts working again.
Examine the Outdoor Unit
Clear away any debris around the outdoor unit to improve airflow. Next, check if the fan is running and listen for unusual noises.
What to Do When Your Air Conditioner Stops Working
Call a Professional
If these steps don’t solve the problem, it’s time to call an expert. Our skilled technicians can diagnose and fix the issue quickly and efficiently. At Lion City Air Conditioner Pte Ltd, we specialize in fast and reliable AC repairs to get you back to feeling cool in no time!
How to Prevent Future Breakdowns?
The best way to avoid an air conditioner breakdown is through regular maintenance. Here are some tips:
Schedule Annual Servicing: Professional maintenance can catch and fix small issues before they become big problems. Book your annual check-up with us today!
Keep Filters Clean: Replace or clean filters every 1-3 months, depending on usage.
Monitor Refrigerant Levels: Low refrigerant can damage your AC system over time.
Clear the Outdoor Unit: Keep the area around the outdoor unit free of debris like leaves, dirt, and grass.
