AC Troubleshooting: 15 Minute Guide

For some people, the thought of fiddling with their air conditioner gives them nightmares. For others, it’s an opportunity to advance their skill set, try something new, and learn a few things along the way. If you’re in the latter category, we’ve heard your cries! Not only that, we’ve provided some tips for how to troubleshoot your air conditioner in just 15 minutes. We’ll continue to repeat this throughout the post but, to be clear, if you get in over your head or you notice any major issues with your AC unit, you should immediately stop tinkering and call a professional. At Jack Lehr Heating, Cooling & Electric, our NATE-certified technicians would be happy to help with any AC repair or replacement needs you may have!

Call us now at [site_info_phone_number] to schedule a repair or replacement service for your Allentown, PA air conditioner!

Check Your Air Filter for Blockages or Dirt

One quick way to prevent, or put an end to, unnecessary HVAC complications is to regularly check the air filters in your home. If the filter is clean, good for you! Put it back and move on to the next one. If your air filter is dirty, you should immediately change it because it could be the source of several issues. A dirty air filter could cause:

• Weak airflow
• Water leaks
• Insufficient cooling

By regularly checking and changing your air filters, you could also help to lower your energy bills and prevent equipment failure.

Make Sure Your Thermostat Is Set Correctly

If hot or warm air is blowing through your air vents, or your air conditioner won’t come on at all, improper thermostat settings could be to blame. If you lower the thermostat by a few degrees and it still isn’t working, you might have a faulty motor on your hands. However, it could also be an issue with the thermostat controls, or even the power source. Either way, you’ll need to call a local professional in this case. At Jack Lehr, our experts provide thermostat installation, repair, and wiring services that could get your heating and cooling system back on track!

Schedule an appointment for thermostat services with the professionals at Jack Lehr today!  

Inspect Your Outdoor AC Unit for Debris or Damage

Sometimes your air conditioner isn’t providing sufficient cooling throughout your home because the outdoor unit is caked with dirt or surrounded by too many plants or foliage. A constant need for HVAC repairs, bills that are abnormally high, or warm air flowing from your vents could also be attributed to an outdoor unit that isn’t properly cared for. If you notice some light dirt on the AC unit, take your water hose and gently spray it until it’s clean. If it is really dirty and hard to clean, don’t risk damaging your unit. Instead, give us a call at [site_info_phone_number] and we’ll come evaluate the condition of your HVAC system for you!

Ensure All Air Vents Are Open and Unblocked

This is a quick task but it could make a big difference. If your vents are closed or blocked, a number of problems could ensue, including water and duct leaks, overall cooling inefficiencies, and blower motor problems. You might have been told that it’s a good idea to close vents in certain rooms of your home, but that’s not exactly true. By doing this, you’re making your heating and cooling system work harder than it needs to.

When to Call for Professional AC Repair or Replacement

If you run into trouble while attempting these troubleshooting suggestions, we would strongly encourage you to stop what you’re doing and call the experts. While some issues with your air conditioner can be quickly fixed, others need the specific care and attention to detail that only a certified technician can supply. If the problem is past the point of repair, you will need to schedule an air conditioner replacement. But how do you know the difference? Read our post about AC repair vs. AC replacement for some better insight! At Jack Lehr Heating, Cooling & Electric, we only hire full-time technicians that have been highly trained in the latest HVAC technology, as well as quality service and customer satisfaction.

Frequently Asked Questions

Question: Why is my air conditioner not turning on?
Answer: If your air conditioner is not turning on, start by checking the thermostat settings to ensure it is set to cool and the temperature is lower than the current room temperature. Also inspect the circuit breaker and power switch near the indoor and outdoor units to confirm the system is receiving power.

Question: What should I check if my AC is running but not cooling?
Answer: When your AC runs but does not cool properly, check the air filter first. A clogged filter can restrict airflow and reduce performance. Make sure supply vents are open and unobstructed, and verify the thermostat is set correctly. Dirty coils or low refrigerant may also require professional service.

Question: How can I troubleshoot my air conditioner in 15 minutes?
Answer: You can perform basic troubleshooting by checking the thermostat, replacing a dirty air filter, confirming the breaker has not tripped, and ensuring vents are open. Inspect the outdoor unit for debris and clear away leaves or dirt. These simple steps often resolve minor cooling issues quickly.

Question: When should I call a professional for AC repair?
Answer: Call a professional if your air conditioner continues to malfunction after basic troubleshooting, makes unusual noises, leaks refrigerant, or frequently trips the breaker. Persistent cooling problems, frozen coils, or electrical issues typically require trained technicians to diagnose and repair safely.

Question: Can a dirty air filter cause AC problems?
Answer: Yes, a dirty air filter can significantly impact your air conditioner’s performance. It restricts airflow, reduces cooling efficiency, and may cause the system to overheat or freeze up. Replacing the filter regularly helps maintain proper airflow and extends the life of your HVAC system.

Contact us online for air conditioner repair, replacement, installation, and maintenance services in Allentown, PA.