Before You Call: Try These First
When your AC stops cooling on a hot Spokane summer day, it's easy to panic. But before you call for service, there are a few things you can check yourself that might solve the problem in minutes.
1. Check Your Thermostat
This sounds obvious, but it's the #1 reason for "AC not working" calls:
- Make sure it's set to COOL (not HEAT or FAN ONLY)
- Check that the temperature is set below the current room temperature
- Replace the batteries if it's a battery-powered thermostat
- Make sure no one accidentally changed the settings
2. Check Your Air Filter
A clogged air filter is the most common cause of AC problems. When the filter is dirty:
- Airflow is restricted
- The evaporator coil can freeze
- The system works harder and produces less cooling
Fix: Pull out the filter and hold it up to light. If you can't see through it, replace it. This alone fixes many common AC issues.
3. Check Your Circuit Breaker
Your AC has its own circuit breaker (sometimes two — one for the indoor unit, one for the outdoor unit). If either has tripped:
- Flip it fully OFF, then back ON
- If it trips again immediately, stop and call a professional — there's an electrical issue
4. Check the Outdoor Unit
Go outside and look at your AC condenser:
- Is it running? You should hear the fan and compressor
- Is it blocked by debris, leaves, or overgrown plants?
- Is the fan spinning?
Clear any debris and ensure at least 2 feet of clearance around the unit.
5. Check Your Vents
Make sure all supply vents are open and unblocked. Closing too many vents actually makes your AC work harder and can cause problems.
When to Call a Professional
If none of the above fixes the issue, you likely need professional service. Common causes that require a technician:
- Refrigerant leak — The system can't cool without proper refrigerant levels
- Failed compressor — The heart of the AC system
- Frozen evaporator coil — Often caused by low refrigerant or airflow issues
- Electrical component failure — Capacitors, contactors, or wiring issues
Don't Wait Too Long
A struggling AC system that's partially working will often fail completely if ignored. The repair is almost always cheaper when caught early.
Call KD Heating at (509) 463-5310 — we offer same-day AC repair service with honest, upfront pricing.