While using air conditioners, encountering malfunctions is inevitable, and in many cases, you may need the intervention of a technician. However, before deciding to call for repair services, you can identify and resolve some basic issues to save time and money.
Things to Do Before Calling for Air Conditioner Repairs
Instead of immediately calling for help, which can be costly, ensure you’ve taken all possible measures to troubleshoot the issue yourself. Here’s what you should do before calling for air conditioner repairs:
Check the Power Source
First, inspect the air conditioner’s power cord and outlet to ensure they aren’t loose or damaged. If you notice any signs of electrical issues, disconnect the power immediately to avoid potential hazards.
Check the electrical breaker (fuse or circuit breaker) in your electrical panel to ensure it hasn’t tripped. If it has, try resetting it. If nothing changes, this could indicate a more serious problem with your electrical system, and you should call a professional.
Clean the Air Filter
A dirty air filter is a common reason for an inefficient air conditioner. Remove the filter, clean it with warm water and mild soap, and allow it to dry completely before reinstalling it.
The evaporator and condenser coils also need regular cleaning to ensure unobstructed airflow. Use a soft brush or damp cloth to wipe away dirt and dust. For heavy soiling, you may need specialized cleaning solutions.
What should you do before calling for air conditioner repairs? Troubleshooting and fixing minor issues can help save unnecessary costs. (Photo: GharPedia)
Inspect the Remote Control
Ensure the batteries in the remote control aren’t dead. Replace them if necessary and test the remote again.
The function buttons on the remote control may get stuck or malfunction. Try pressing different buttons to ensure the remote is working correctly.
Check Temperature Settings and Operating Mode
The set temperature on the air conditioner should be lower than the current room temperature. If the set temperature is too high, the air conditioner won’t effectively cool the room.
Verify that the air conditioner is in the correct operating mode (cooling, heating, fan, or dehumidifying). Sometimes, an incorrect mode setting can lead to the air conditioner not functioning as desired.
Inspect the Drain Pipe
Check if the drain pipe is clogged. A blocked drain pipe can cause water overflow and lead to the air conditioner shutting down.
The connectors and refrigerant pipes may leak or become loose, affecting the cooling efficiency of the unit. If you notice any signs of refrigerant leaks, call a professional immediately.
Check the Refrigerant Level
One of the things to do before calling for air conditioner repairs is to check the refrigerant level. Inefficient cooling could be due to low refrigerant levels. Signs of low refrigerant include weak cooling, longer cooling times, and frozen pipes.
If you have the necessary skills, check the refrigerant level using a pressure gauge. However, refilling the refrigerant should be left to professionals to ensure safety and proper technique.
These are the things to do before calling for air conditioner repairs. After checking and attempting to fix the issues mentioned, if your air conditioner still doesn’t function normally, it’s best to call a professional technician. Especially if you encounter issues related to electricity, refrigerant, or internal components, seeking professional help is essential to ensure proper and effective repairs.
