When things start to heat up in the Sarasota-Bradenton area, it’s comforting to know that your A/C will be there to help you keep your cool. The best way to ensure continuous, efficient performance throughout the season is by scheduling annual preventive maintenance, though it’s still important to keep an eye out for some of the more common air conditioner problems. Here are four to keep in mind:

• The A/C is running, but there’s no cool air. Begin by checking the thermostat, to ensure it is set at least four degrees below the current room temperature. If that’s not the issue, inspect the outside condenser/compressor unit to see if it’s blocked or dirty, cleaning or remove the blockage such as tall grass or weeds as needed. Other possibilities include an inadequate refrigerant charge or malfunctioning compressor, both of which require professional service.
• Your A/C isn’t keeping your home cool enough. Inadequate cooling is one of the more common air conditioner problems, and the fix may be as simple as lowering the thermostat a further five degrees, or cleaning your dirty evaporator coil and allowing the A/C to run for several hours. If neither fix works, your A/C may be improperly sized for your home. Or when extreme outdoor temperatures persist, it may not be realistic to achieve your desired set point due to air leakage, heat gain from windows, leaky ducts or inadequate insulation.
• The air conditioner cycles on and off frequently. A dirty evaporator or blocked or dirty condenser/compressor may be responsible; try cleaning the entire A/C and make sure it’s free of obstructions.
• The condenser/compressor isn’t running. Check power to the unit, including the plug as well as the fuse or breaker. Next, try lowering the thermostat setting by five degrees. If neither fix works, call for service as the issue may be a malfunctioning compressor or motor.

If you’re experiencing any of these common air conditioner problems, or for any other HVAC concerns, give us a call at Aqua Plumbing & Air, serving homeowners in Bradenton, Sarasota and the surrounding area.