In the suffocating summertime heat, the last thing you need is for your A/C to stop blowing cold air. Unfortunately, it’s a common problem. And here in Charlottesville, we’re no strangers to hot, humid summer days.
The good news is, it may only take a simple tweak or two to get your A/C running correctly again. All it takes is a little observation.
First, be sure to check your thermostat switch and set it to “auto.” If it’s only on the fan setting, it won’t blow cold air. Once you’ve confirmed that it’s set to cool your house--but still isn’t working--you can inspect your unit to rule out the following possibilities.
1. It’s time to replace your air filter.
A dirty air filter can prevent the cold air from your A/C from cooling your home properly. Dust and grime that builds up in the filter over time restrict the desired air flow from the unit. It can even cause your unit to freeze up.
Some HVAC units will shut down completely when the filter is clogged. Try purchasing a new filter and replacing the old one to see if this corrects the problem.
2. The condenser on your unit needs cleaning.
Dirty coils in your condenser might be keeping your A/C from cooling properly. Because refrigerant must run through the coils to cool your house, dirty coils can inhibit its flow. You’ll need your condenser cleaned out professionally at least once a year to prevent this issue.
3. There’s an ice block inside your HVAC unit.
It might seem counterintuitive, but ice inside your A/C causes it to stop cooling your home as it should. Not only can a dirty filter cause this problem; filthy coils can, too. Try changing your thermostat to the “fan” setting and allow the ice inside your unit to melt.
4. Your A/C drain is clogged.
It’s possible that the drainage hose running from your A/C has become clogged, which in turn shuts down your HVAC unit. While this prevents water from getting into the unit or your house, it also keeps your unit from cooling as it should. If the pipe is clogged, it might need to be cleaned out or replaced.
5. Weeds and grass around your unit are overgrown.
Overgrowth around your outside HVAC unit can block adequate air from flowing through the unit. Bushes, plants, low-hanging tree branches, and weeds can all be culprits. If you inspect your unit and find overgrown plants and grasses covering it, trim everything back at least three feet away from the unit. Giving your HVAC room to breathe could help it start to cool your home again.
If your A/C still isn’t cooling your house…
You might be overdue for routine maintenance on your unit--or it might be time for an A/C repair or new HVAC installation. Your HVAC technician will carefully inspect your A/C unit outside, as well as the thermostat inside, to ensure everything is in working order. They’ll also be able to determine whether:
Your refrigerant fluid is leaking
The condenser is damaged or broken
Your fan or fan motor isn’t working
The thermostat controls are malfunctioning
The compressor has gone bad
While some repairs are reasonably routine and inexpensive, some are costly. If your unit is more than ten years old and requires an expensive repair, it might be time for a new A/C installation. And if you’re burning up right now, you don’t have to suffer in the heat--we offer same-day service.
Maintenance tasks you need on your unit regularly include compressor and condenser cleaning. You’re more likely to catch small, preventative repairs at your routine checks--and in the long run, it’ll save you money and sweat (literally and figuratively!). We offer affordable maintenance plans that make it easy to keep your A/C up and running.
Still have questions?
Real Reviews from Your Charlottesville Neighbors
See All ReviewsJulie D. (Charlottesville, VA)I can’t say enough good things!! We had an emergency, no AC during the 113+ heat wave on a Friday holiday afternoon (worst timing!!!). I called multiple companies and only Fitch called me back.
Larry was fantastic!! He kept me informed as to when he anticipated getting to us, and called when on his way, and showed up when he said he would.
He was, again, fantastic! Explained the issue and promptly fixed it. Our house was literally 98 degrees. Everything is running smoothly!
And, for an emergency call late on a Friday afternoon, the cost was incredibly reasonable.
I highly HIGHLY recommend their services. We now have them on speed dial and will absolutely be using them again for our needs, even for other services they offer we have yet to use.
Again, thank you Larry & Fitch Services from us and our pups - for being there when we needed you most and delivering exceptional customer service. 5 stars for sure!
Barbara M. (Charlottesville, VA)I am proud to say I have been a client of Fitch Services since they began. My family has always received courteous and timely service for plumbing, heating and air conditioning, and electrical issues. They have installed and maintain a whole house generator. That was a fantastic decision. I use their annual maintenance plans for all of my systems. I personally recommend Fitch Services.
John K. (Charlottesville, VA)I knew of Fitch Services and their technicians via my place of employment. The technician's honest and forthright approach to their work was very much appreciated... They were initially contacted to come to our residence to address a clogged kitchen sink drain line. It was suggested to us we replace the drain line instead of snaking it. When the old drain line was cut out and shown to me, it was amazing anything had gotten through that line! Glad we chose to replace it... We also inquired about replacing/updating all the galvanized supply lines in our home. The scope of the work needed and how it would be done was discussed to make sure we understood... We appreciated the honest assessment of how the project might or would go. While the technicians were on our project, they kept us updated with daily conversations towards the end of their working day. The finished project has been great! We were excited to finally have full flow of the hot water! Fitch is now our 'go to' plumber.
Tom P. (Charlottesville, VA)I've used Fitch for a few years now for both electrical and plumbing work. They are professional and do a great job on things both big and small. Twice we have had pretty huge jobs and they have come in under budget. Plus, the service technicians are friendly and work hard and the office staff communicates very well. Definitely recommend!
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