When the middle of summer hits Easton, there’s nothing quite like walking into a cool home after being outside in the heat. That cooling comfort comes from your air conditioning system working correctly. But if your AC suddenly shuts off and won’t start again, it can throw off your entire day. In some cases, it only takes a small adjustment to get it back to normal. In others, the issue may be more serious and need help from a trained technician.
A non-working AC can feel frustrating, especially when the temperature inside your home starts rising fast. Maybe it stopped working in the middle of the night, or maybe it went quiet just as you were expecting guests. Either way, it’s important to stay calm and work through some basic checks. These steps can help figure out whether the fix is something simple or if it’s time to bring in our professionals. Let’s look at a few places to start.
Check Your Thermostat
Sometimes the problem isn’t the AC at all, it’s the thermostat. It might sound too easy, but quite a few service calls end up being caused by thermostat issues that could have been fixed in a couple of minutes.
Start by making sure your thermostat is turned on and set to cooling mode. Double-check the temperature setting and make sure it’s lower than the current room temperature. Occasionally, someone might bump the settings without noticing, or the schedule on a smart thermostat could change on its own.
Here are a few quick things to go over:
– Make sure the thermostat is in “cool” mode and not “heat” or “off”
– Verify that the temperature setting is several degrees lower than your indoor temperature
– If your thermostat takes batteries, try replacing them with new ones
– Check the screen for any error messages or signs it’s unresponsive
If your thermostat seems to be acting up, with delays, blackouts, or unreliable readings, it could be the reason your AC isn’t turning on. Swapping out the batteries or confirming proper settings may solve the problem. But if you’re still having issues, your system could need a closer inspection.
Inspect the Power Supply
If the thermostat checks out, the next step is making sure your system is getting power. An AC unit that loses power won’t be able to start, shut off correctly, or signal that something’s wrong.
Start by verifying that the AC unit is plugged in properly, especially if you’re working with a window or mini split unit. For central systems, check your home’s breaker box. A tripped breaker can stop your system without warning, especially if your household uses many large appliances at the same time.
– Check the circuit breaker to see if the switch labeled for your AC is in the middle or “off” position
– If it is, flip it to “off” then back to “on”
– If your system uses fuses instead of breakers, inspect them for signs of a blown fuse such as a dark spot or broken metal strand inside the glass
Keep in mind that a breaker that trips more than once is not something to ignore. It may point to deeper electrical issues in the AC, which isn’t something to diagnose on your own. If this happens, our technicians can help track down the cause and repair it safely.
Clean or Replace the Air Filter
A dirty air filter might seem like a minor issue, but it can be enough to limit airflow and cause the system to shut down from overheating. Over time, dust, pet hair, and other debris build up on filters, making it harder for air to pass through. This makes your air conditioner work harder than it should, and that strain can lead to short cycling or even complete system shutdown.
To check the filter:
– Look in the return vent or inside the air handler, depending on your system
– Slide out the filter and hold it up to the light — if you can’t see through it, it’s time for a change
– Replace it with a new filter the same size and type, following the arrows for airflow direction
For standard systems, filters should usually be replaced every one to three months. If you have pets, allergies, or live near a construction site, you might need to change it more often. If you’ve never changed a filter and didn’t know to check it before, that’s okay. Clarity starts here, and keeping your filter clean going forward helps your system run smoothly.
Examine the Outdoor Unit
If your AC still won’t turn on or isn’t cooling properly, the issue might be outside. The outdoor unit does a lot of work during the summer and can run into problems that stop the system from working altogether.
Begin by checking for any obvious blockages around the unit. Things like leaves, grass, or pieces of trash can easily build up and block airflow. When the system can’t move air freely, it can overheat or shut down for safety.
Here are a few steps you can take:
– Clear away leaves, weeds, or anything blocking the airflow on all sides of the unit
– Check for damage to the fins or coil covers
– Listen for strange sounds that could point to a mechanical problem
– Gently rinse the coils with a hose if they’re covered in dirt or debris, but avoid using high pressure
If the system is clean and nothing visibly looks wrong, but it’s still not running, that’s a sign that something deeper might need inspection. For example, damage to the refrigerant lines or wiring isn’t always obvious but can stop the system entirely. Don’t try opening up any of the panels yourself. This is where our technicians need to step in.
When To Call Our Professionals
There’s a point when checking filters, breakers, and settings just isn’t enough. Knowing when to stop troubleshooting and bring in our professionals can help prevent more damage and higher repair costs.
It’s a good idea to call when:
– You’ve gone through the basic steps and the AC still won’t start
– The unit turns on but shuts off quickly or runs without cooling
– You hear grinding, hissing, or banging noises from the outdoor unit
– Ice has formed on any part of the system
– There’s a burning smell or the unit is overheating
– The error code on your thermostat can’t be cleared
Anything involving refrigerant levels, internal wiring, or motor failure needs trained eyes. Delaying service might lead to further damage or more expensive repairs down the line. Quick action saves time and helps restore comfort faster.
Keeping Cool In Easton With Reliable AC Repair
When your AC gives out at the worst time, it’s easy to panic. But a calm, informed approach can save you time and help solve simple issues. From thermostat settings to clearing the outdoor unit, these steps give you a place to start. Even if they don’t fix the issue, they help narrow down the problem for our professionals to address more efficiently.
Consistent maintenance is the best way to avoid these surprises. Replacing filters, watching for signs of wear, and not ignoring small problems gives your system a better shot at lasting through the season without disruptions. If you do run into trouble or notice that your AC just isn’t cooling like it used to, we’re here to help with dependable AC repair in Easton whenever you need it.
If your air conditioning still struggles after basic troubleshooting, it might be time to seek professional AC repair in Easton to restore reliable cooling and comfort in your home. At Tidewater Heating & Cooling, our technicians understand how unexpected outages can disrupt your day, and they are ready to inspect your system and provide a proper repair solution. For a quick estimate or to book a service visit, please contact us today.
