How to Troubleshoot a Window AC

A window air conditioner is not just a luxury. For some, it is a life-saving necessity. This makes it important for the window AC to be in good running order. Unfortunately, as with any mechanical equipment, there are times when things might go wrong with the unit. These cases may call for some troubleshooting to determine what the issue is. Sometimes the issue is simple enough to fix on your own, and other times you may need to call a professional. In any case, knowing how to troubleshoot a window AC helps to solve the problem.

• 1

  Check the power source when the AC isn't running at all. This includes the plug-in, a surge protector that could have triggered, as well as the breaker box. A window AC often takes a lot of power, so may need to be plugged into an outlet that isn't shared with anything else.

• 2

  Check the dials and settings for airflow and comfort issues. These affect performance, and entail issues regarding the AC making a room too cold, or not cool enough. Settings for recirculating inside air or drawing air from outside, temperature settings, and fan settings may need to be adjusted.

• 3

  Check the filter when air isn't cool enough, or when airflow is minimal. Dust, pollen, dander, and other microbes clog a filter and reduce a window AC's efficiency. Regular maintenance helps to alleviate this issue.

• 4

  Clean the condensing coils when air still doesn't cool. These are located on the back of the unit, and require removing the cover to clean. Blow dust and dirt out from the coils with compressed air, or gently remove with a brush.

• 5

  Check the refrigerant when none of the previously mentioned methods alleviate an issue with the AC not producing cool air. This generally takes the help of a professional.

• 6

  Allow the room to cool down to outside temperatures when the air conditioner gathers ice, and turn off the unit. Ice build-up sometimes happens when the outside air is cooler than the air inside the house. Let the ice melt before restarting the AC.

• 7

  Adjust the tilt of the air conditioner when water drips inside the house. Tilt it slightly, so the outside is lower than the inside and any condensation or water build-up runs outside.