broken central air conditioner

Broken Central Air Conditioner: What to Do When Your AC Stops Working

Experiencing a broken central air conditioner during a heatwave can be a nightmare.

Whether it’s an unexpected breakdown or gradual decline, knowing what to do can help you quickly get back to a cool and pleasant environment.

In this article, we’ll cover key steps to take when your AC stops working and why professional air conditioning services are crucial for effective and safe repairs.

The maintenance services they provide are essential to avoid breakdowns and maintain the optimal performance of your system.

Keep reading for tips on troubleshooting your central air conditioner issues and finding the best AC repairs in the Mesa area.

They can help with a proper diagnosis and timely repairs to restore comfort and extend your system’s lifespan.

Identifying Common Issues

Understanding the common reasons behind a central air conditioner not working can help you know when to call for professional help.

Here are a few typical problems to consider:

Power Supply Problems

If your central air conditioner isn’t turning on, it might be due to power issues.

This could include a tripped circuit breaker or a blown fuse.

Thermostat Malfunctions

An unresponsive thermostat can prevent your air conditioner from cooling your home effectively.

Issues could stem from improper settings, dead batteries, or faulty wiring.

Dirty Air Filters

Dirty or clogged air filters can slow airflow, leading to poor cooling performance or causing the system to stop working.

Regularly checking these filters is crucial for maintaining peak performance.

If the air filters are dirty, you’ll need to replace them.

If this doesn’t resolve the issue, call a technician who can do a thorough inspection to identify any underlying problems that might be affecting your system’s efficiency.

Refrigerant Leaks

Handling refrigerants needs specialized knowledge and equipment to ensure proper diagnosis and repair.

To determine if refrigerant might be the issue with your AC, look for the following signs:

  • Ice on the evaporator coils or around the refrigerant lines
  • Your AC is blowing warm air in place of cool air
  • Hissing or bubbling sounds
  • Increased energy bills
  • Your AC struggles to keep the desired temperature

Faulty Components

You may notice unusual noises and a lack of proper cooling when the AC turns on.

This can be due to possible failure of components like the:

  • Compressor
  • Capacitor
  • Fan motor

What to Do When Your AC Stops Working

Here are some steps to help you identify and possibly resolve common problems.

However, professional assistance may be needed if these steps do not fix the issue.

Check the Power Supply

Ensure the AC unit is properly connected to its power source and check that the circuit breaker hasn’t tripped.

If it has tripped, resetting it may resolve the issue.

If the power supply seems fine, but the AC still isn’t working, it’s time to call for professional air conditioning services.

Inspect the Thermostat

Next, check the thermostat. Make sure it is set on cooling mode with the temperature set below that of the room.

If the thermostat appears unresponsive, it could be a sign of a malfunction.

Examine Air Filters

When air filters are clogged or dirty, they can obstruct airflow and reduce your system’s efficiency.

If the filters are dirty, replace them.

This is generally the best course of action, as cleaning them isn’t always effective.

It’s best also to have a technician come and inspect your system so that they can identify if something else might be the root cause of the problem.

Look for Refrigerant Leaks

Refrigerant leaks are serious and require immediate professional attention.

If you see any of the signs mentioned above, contact a professional for an accurate diagnosis and repair.

Check for Obstructions

Make sure that the outdoor condenser unit is free from leaves, debris, or dirt.

Blockages can restrict airflow and cause the system to overheat or stop working.

Why You Need Professional AC Repair

While identifying potential issues with your central air conditioner is useful, repairing a broken AC requires professional expertise.

Here’s why:

Handling electrical components and refrigerants requires specialized knowledge and tools, and improper handling can be dangerous.

They use advanced tools to identify issues that may not be obvious.

Professionals can perform repairs quickly and effectively, ensuring your central air conditioner works properly and efficiently.

A skilled technician not only fixes the immediate problem but also provides long-term solutions to prevent future breakdowns.

Choosing the Right Air Conditioning Services

Take time to evaluate your options.

When selecting air conditioning services, consider the following factors:

Experience and Expertise

Choose a company with a track record of handling a variety of central air conditioner issues.

Skilled technicians are more likely to deliver precise diagnoses and successful repairs.

Look for a company with EPA-certified technicians for peace of mind.

Customer Reviews

Look at different customer reviews and testimonials to evaluate service quality.

Positive feedback and high ratings often indicate reliable, professional service and customer satisfaction.

Check several sources to get a comprehensive view.

Warranty and Guarantees

Ensure that the repair services offer warranties or guarantees on their work.

This provides reassurance that any issues will be addressed promptly and at no extra cost, protecting your investment in both the repair and the service provided.

Emergency Services

A reliable air conditioning service should offer emergency repair options.

AC problems often occur at inconvenient times, so having access to 24/7 service can be crucial for addressing urgent issues quickly and minimizing discomfort.

Transparent Pricing

Look for companies that have clear and upfront pricing.

Transparent pricing practices ensure you know what to expect and avoid unexpected costs.

Next Steps for a Broken Central Air Conditioner

A broken central air conditioner can be a major inconvenience, especially during hot weather.

Understanding common issues and the importance of professional repair can help you address problems effectively.

Additionally, regular maintenance will keep your central air conditioner running smoothly year-round and pick up on issues early enough to prevent expensive repairs.

Partner with Mark Daniels Air Conditioning & Heating in Mesa for professional, high-quality services.

Our experienced team does things right from the beginning to give you the best possible experience.

If your AC is not working correctly, contact us today for timely, efficient service at a fair price.


Looking for a Dependable AC contractor in Apache Junction?
Contact Mark Daniels Air Conditioning & Heating for premier air conditioning services tailored to your needs. Schedule your service online or call us at (480) 571-7219 today!