Photo of a HVAC system from Missoula HVAC contractors

Troubleshooting Your Missoula Residential Air Conditioning System

Make this summer your best summer by keeping your air conditioning system running smoothly all summer long.  When problems arise, be ready to diagnose any issues as quickly as possible to reduce the time it takes to make repairs.  This article is not exhaustive, so if you try the solutions we have listed and your issue does not go away, it is likely time to call a licensed HVAC contractor, like Garden City Plumbing & Heating to get your AC back up and running ASAP!  For your most reliable guide to troubleshooting your Missoula residential air conditioning system, read on!

Symptom #1: Hot Air Coming Out of Vents

If your air conditioning system is kicking on but sending out air that is hot, you could be dealing with one of several issues. Here are some of the possible reasons for this:

1. Incorrect Thermostat Settings

 *The Fix: This is one of the absolute easiest things to fix. Ensuring that your thermostat is set to cool instead of heat and at the correct desired temperature is all it takes to get your Missoula residential air conditioning system running properly again!

2. Low Refrigerant in the System

*The Fix: Having low refrigerant requires refilling the refrigerant, as well as figuring out why it was low in the first place.  You must find where it was leaking out to prevent further damage as well as the new refrigerant leaking out as well.  It is best to call a Missoula HVAC contractor in this situation for an inspection and repair.

3. Clogged Air Filter

 *The Fix: Having reduced airflow from a clogged filter can be remedied very quickly and simply with a new air filter.  You should be replacing the air filters on your Missoula residential air conditioning system fairly often.  If you are not sure of the frequency required on your AC unit, give a call to your trusted Missoula HVAC contractor today. 

Symptom #2: Air Conditioner Isn’t Kicking On

If your air conditioning system is not kicking on, your problem could be fairly simple or fairly complex. Here are some of the possible causes:

1. Tripped Circuit Breaker

 *The Fix: This can be as easy as resetting the circuit!  Be sure to keep an eye on the circuit board in case the breaker kicks off again.  If it keeps kicking off, you may have an electrical problem.  Be sure to call a licensed contractor to make sure your AC system is safe to use!

2. Thermostat Issue

*The Fix: Resetting your thermostat should correct any issues you may be experiencing.  You will also want to ensure that the thermostat is set to “cool” and set at the desired temperature.

Symptom #3: Air Conditioner Staying On

If your Missoula residential air conditioning system kicked on and just will not kick back off, there could be a few causes. Take a look at these possible scenarios:

1. Thermostat Issue

 *The Fix: Before you go further, double check that you have the thermostat set to “cool” and on the correct desired temperature.  If the settings are correct, go ahead and replace the battery in the thermostat. Improper power supply can cause electronics to do some wacky things. If the batteries or power supply is good and the AC still will not kick off, there could be a wiring issue in the thermostat. If this is the case, it may be the perfect time to upgrade to a smart thermostat, which will not only fix your problem, but can help you save on power bill.

 2. Clogged Air Filter

 *The Fix: Dirty air filters impede the airflow on your HVAC system and can be the source of a number of problems, including causing the air conditioner to stay running.  By changing out your air filter for a fresh one, the problem should go away very quickly if this is the cause of your problem. 

3. Undersized AC Unit

*The Fix: If your AC unit is not a sufficient size and strength for the size of your home, it could be working overtime in an effort to cool the entire space.  If this is the cause of your constantly running air conditioning system, you will need to either get a mini split unit for a section of your home or upgrade to a larger central air conditioning unit.  If you suspect this is your situation, the best advice we have is to call in a licensed HVAC contractor for an inspection and advice.

Get Your Missoula Residential Air Conditioning System Running Again

 If this guide helped you figure out the issues with your air conditioning system this summer, great! If the solution to your issue is not listed or you are having other symptoms than this article incudes, it is advised to have a licensed HVAC contractor come out to your home. Call Garden City Plumbing & Heating at (406) 728-5550 or contact us online today!