Living in Florida without an efficient air conditioner is almost impossible. That's why you need to ensure your air conditioner is functioning properly. But sometimes, you may encounter some unexpected problems with your air conditioning unit.
While hiring a licensed technician to inspect your Rheem air conditioner is always the best move, you can try some DIY troubleshooting to see if it works for your unit. Here are some tips to try before calling a Rheem air conditioner repair service:
Do you still feel warm even if your air conditioner is on? Some homeowners easily jump to conclusion that something is wrong with their air conditioner when this happens. Before calling a local HVAC technician, check the thermostat first. Be sure to set it to cooling mode or adjust it to your desired temperature.
Other things to consider:
For battery-operated thermostats, check if you need to replace your old batteries.
Consider outdoor temperatures, as well. During summertime in Florida, it can get very hot and your air conditioner may not cool your home immediately. But, this does not mean your air conditioning system is broken. Just give it a few minutes or you may try using a fan to help your AC for a while.
Another possible reason why Rheem air conditioners may malfunction is due to electrical issues like line voltage fault. Visually inspect the circuit breaker box. If the line is tripped, try restarting it and see what happens to your air conditioning system. In case the line trips again, it's time to consult an HVAC professional.
Replacing the air filter can make a big difference. This can make your Rheem air conditioner function more efficiently. HVAC professionals recommend replacing AC filters every 3 months. However, if you have pets inside your home, consider replacing your filters more often.
If your AC filters are not that old, you can also try cleaning them using the following steps:
Step 1: Be sure to check the model of your AC to see if you can clean the filters. Some air conditioners only have disposable filters.
Step 2: Turn your AC off for safety before accessing the filter.
Step 3: Gently remove the filter.
Step 4: Use a brush or a vacuum cleaner to remove dust and other debris in the filter.
Step 5: Rinse the filter with running water for a deeper clean.
Step 6: Allow it to dry, then put it back into the AC unit.
Prolong the lifespan of air conditioners
Improved energy-efficiency
Better indoor air quality
Helps the indoor air mover and ductwork operate efficiently
Believe it or not, we receive a few calls from homeowners just to find out that the power switch is off. So, be sure to check the switches before calling a technician. The outdoor unit power switch sometimes gets accidentally shut off in residential homes. Check the disconnect switch near the AC unit and make sure it is properly plugged in, as well.
Many air conditioners also feature a water safety switch to prevent water leaks on your property. Check the pan of your AC unit to see if it is clogged. If there's water, just empty the pan and flush out the drain line. Once done, check if the AC is operating again.
Here are signs you should call a licensed HVAC technician:
When you notice your AC is starting to make strange or loud noises, there could be something wrong with the unit operation. It could be due to low-pressure control, faulty compressor operation, condenser fan issues, or loose parts. When this happens, get your HVAC system inspected by a professional.
When you still feel warm even if your thermostat is set to cool, then it's time to call a licensed technician to find out the problem. This does not always mean you need to replace your AC unit. Other possible reasons your air conditioner is blowing hot air or not cooling include the following:
Clogging around the unit
Dirty evaporator coils
Refrigerant leaks
[Related Article: Why Is My A/C Running Constantly, Even When The Set Temperature Is Reached?]
This is another sign you need to call a local HVAC professional. A musty smell coming from the vents may indicate mold problems, which can lead to health problems. You should also pay attention to a burning smell because this could be an electrical problem.
[Read this article to learn more about musty smells in air conditioners.]
This is way worse than an AC unit not blowing cool air. This sign may indicate compressor failure or problems with the onboard fuse. Before calling a professional, check the filter thoroughly to see if it's clean. Ensure that at least half of the vents are open, as well.
[Related Article: HVAC Unit Blowing Hot Air: Possible Reasons & Solutions]
Rapid cycling or short cycling may indicate something serious. If you notice your AC keeps turning on and off repeatedly, call a licensed HVAC professional right away to address the problem.
Rheem is the world's leading HVAC manufacturer. Over the years, this brand has built a reputation for producing high-performing air conditioners. Here are some of the reasons why you should hire a Rheem Pro Partner like Comfort Air to service your Rheem air conditioner.
