Troubleshooting Your AC Problems

When you live in Alabama you have to smile a little bit when you hear other folks talk about the dog days of summer. They’re usually referring to the last 2 or 3 weeks in August.
Here in the deep south, Dixie Electric, Plumbing, and Air doesn’t have to tell you we’re already in the dog days and they’ll be lasting a lot longer than the end of August.
The non-stop hot weather means our phones are ringing constantly because people are calling for air conditioner repairs. We love hearing from you and are always willing to help, but sometimes there are things you can do that might solve the problem without calling us for an AC repair.
Start by checking out this air conditioning troubleshooting video we’ve put together for you. It has many of the specifics, but in general terms here are some things you can easily check:

• Thermostat:

• • We’re not being insulting. Thermostats are getting more complicated. It is possible someone bumped a switch or inadvertently set the wrong time or temperature while using the programmable features.
  • Double check all the settings using your owner’s manual.
  • If the screen is blank, it’s possible the thermostat needs new batteries.

• Filters:

• • A dirty filter can restrict airflow so much the air conditioner can’t cool the house.
  • If you’ve forgotten to replace it, the filter could be virtually plugged because of things like pet hair.
  • If that’s the case make sure it doesn’t happen on a regular basis.
  • Dirty filters will greatly reduce the life of your central air conditioner.

• Circuit breakers

• • Check to make sure the electrical circuit breaker hasn’t tripped.
  • If it has, go ahead and reset it, but if it trips again you’ll have to call Dixie.
  • Remember, depending on your system there may be separate circuit breakers for the outdoor unit.

If you are still having trouble, it’s time to call in Dixie’s experts for an air conditioner repair. If you watched the video you know they will start with a comprehensive leak check.
Only someone like a trained Dixie technician can test for a refrigerant leak. If the level is low, they will examine every part of your system to find the source of the leak.’
In Dixie’s experience, a refrigerant leak is often a sign of more serious problems. If your system uses R-22 refrigerantTM refrigerant, which is being phased out because of environmental concerns, it might make more sense to discuss air conditioner replacement rather than a R-22 refrigerant leak repair.
If you’re having AC problems, don’t try to sweat it out without calling for help. October 1st is a long time from now. Instead call Dixie Electric, Plumbing, & Air, your air conditioner repair experts in Montgomery, Opelika, and the surrounding area. Call Dixie, and it’s done.