Air conditioners might seem like mysterious objects. They magically take hot air and make it cold again. But, since they’re made from science and not magic, they often have hiccups. One common problem in the Lancaster area is an AC unit that just won’t stop running. If you’re up against this issue, these tips can help.
1. Check the Thermostat
The first thing to check is if the temperature of the room is higher or lower than the setting on the thermostat. If it’s cool enough that the AC should be kicking off but it isn’t, then there are a number of steps you can take. The easiest is to set the thermostat to off. That will usually solve the problem, and if it doesn’t, then you know the issue is with the thermostat. Still, having to manually turn off the entire system every time you want the AC to quit is less than ideal.
2. Fan Switch
Before you assume something is broken, check to see if there is a fan control switch on the unit itself. Many air conditioners have these so you can keep the fan blowing even while the compressor is not running. If that’s your issue, then you can flip that switch and the problem is solved. If not, there are still more steps.
3. Filters
In many cases, the AC is essentially working correctly but not efficiently. The typical culprit in these cases is air blockage at the filter. Simply changing the filter can resolve that problem, and you’ll find that your unit cools the home much better. In these cases, it’s staying on because it just can’t produce enough cool air to keep up with the heat.
4. Troubleshooting
If the normal stuff doesn’t resolve the problem, then you want to get into some troubleshooting. One of the best things you can do is see if the thermostat temperature is correct. Compare it to another thermometer. If they agree but the unit won’t stop, then your problem can be resolved in the above steps. If the temperatures don’t agree, then you have a potentially more complicated problem. While it could be the result of a faulty thermostat, it could also be related to a localized heat buildup. A number of things can cause a thermostat to read incorrectly even when it isn’t broken, and this step will help you or a technician find the root cause.
5. Service
While a commitment to DIY is commendable, there comes a point where a problem is better solved by a pro. The ultimate source of your trouble could be as simple as a dirty coil or as troubling as a faulty compressor, but if you want to avoid overpaying for a fix, you need the help of an expert. David White Services, Inc. is a great place to find that expert and get your problem fixed quickly.
The Local Leader for Dependable Comfort Solutions
Since 1977, David White Services has been the leading comfort service provider in Lancaster, Athens, and surrounding areas. There’s no comfort problem we can’t solve, from heating & AC repairs to fireplace installations and much more! Contact us today!
