It’s easy to take your AC for granted—until it stops blowing cool air throughout your home. If your air conditioner has stopped working, try these troubleshooting tips before calling an HVAC contractor. Oftentimes, malfunctions are caused by simple issues that homeowners can fix themselves. 

3 Quick Fixes for a Broken AC

1. Check the Breaker 

If your AC has shut off entirely and won’t turn back on, the circuit breaker may have tripped. Check your breaker to verify if it is tripped, or, if you have fuses, ensure the unit’s fuse is not blown. In the instance this continues to be an issue, a professional should be called.

2. Adjust the Thermostat

Could someone in your household have changed the thermostat without your knowledge? Inspect the thermostat closely to confirm that its settings still correspond to your family’s needs.

If you have a smart thermostat, make sure to scroll through all the options, including preset schedules, and to ensure none of the settings have been adjusted or altered. You should also ask all of the household members who have the app on their phone or tablet if they’ve been playing with the settings. This can help prevent future glitches. 

3. Change the Filters

When the system’s air filters are clogged with dust, dirt, and other debris, your AC won’t be nearly as effective as usual. A clogged filter will circulate allergens through your home, and also make your unit work harder to push air through the vents. If you’re unsure where these filters are located, have an HVAC contractor show you. Then, get in the habit of changing them every 30 to 90 days. 

If none of the above tips work, you need to call an HVAC contractor to diagnose and repair the problem. To schedule prompt service in Baraboo or Portage, WI, turn to Pointon Heating & Air Conditioning. Backed by more than 200 years of experience, this HVAC contractor works on all brands and models and can handle all of your heating and air conditioning needs. To schedule service in Baraboo, call (608) 356-4177 or (608) 745-4616 for their Portage location, and visit their website.