The most frequent root causes of central air conditioning system failures are fixed by our professionals.
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Introduction
Our experts present straightforward do-it-yourself hvac repair choices for the most common central air conditioning repairs. You’ll get back up and running more quickly and spend less on a service call.
Tools Required
- a flexible wrench
- Cordless drill/driver
- screwdriver with insulation
- Needle-nose pliers with a multimeter
- Ratchet and socket set, nut driver
- tester for voltage
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Materials Required
- Air-compressed capacitor
- Contactor for a condenser fan motor
- Fuses
Self Service Repair of Air Conditioning
You could have to wait days or even weeks for an appointment with a repair specialist to fix your central air conditioning system if it breaks down in the middle of a scorching summer heat wave, and the repair will undoubtedly set you back several hundred dollars. However, you can definitely fix your air conditioner yourself in about two hours if you’re comfortable working around electrical and willing to spend less than $100 on components.
To get the best advice for do-it-yourself AC fan maintenance and repair, we spoke with nearby hvac replacement professionals. The most typical “low cooling” and “no cooling” issues can be solved with the aid of these suggestions.
You will want a few basic tools, including a multimeter, a voltage detector, a socket set, and a variety of insulated screwdrivers.
If these AC repairs don’t fix the issue, at least you’ve addressed the most frequent causes, which will free up your service technician to focus on the trickier issues. Additionally, you can enjoy years of trouble-free air conditioning thanks to the improved components. Here’s a starting point.
Why isn’t the home cooling while my air conditioner is on?
Make Sure the Problem Isn’t the Furnace
Lower the temperature and switch your thermostat to the AC setting. The issue isn’t with the furnace if the fan turns on. Try to reset the furnace circuit breaker if the fan won’t operate. Call a professional if the fan still won’t turn on; the solutions provided here won’t work.
Check the outside condensing unit next. Both the fan and the compressor, which makes a refrigerator-like noise, should be operating. If not, adhere to the diagnostic and repair steps listed below.
Attention: Disconnect the power
Before removing the exterior disconnect or the access panel for the condensing unit, switch off the main electrical panel’s breakers for the furnace and air conditioner. Next, check the cables entering the contactor using a voltage tester to verify sure the power is indeed off.
AC Not Working? Purchase components
The most frequent failures and least costly components are the hvac installation (relay) and start/run capacitor(s) (see figure below). Therefore, if your air conditioning repair unit is more than five years old, it’s wise to acquire and install such parts right away. Condenser fan motors are also susceptible to failure, but they cost approximately $150, so avoid replacing them unless you are certain they are the problem.
Locate the nameplate on the condensing unit to purchase new components (not your furnace). Make a note of the brand, model, and serial number (or take a photo). Purchase the components online, through a furnace dealer, or at an appliance shop.
