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Troubleshooting Tips When Your Santa Clara AC Stops Working

November 6, 2024

Maya Angelou once said, "Life is not about how many breaths we take, but about the moments that leave us breathless." An AC not working in Santa Clara can spoil those special times in hot summers. Before you call for help, try some steps to fix it on your own.


First, see if your AC has power. Look at the circuit breaker and check if it is tripped. Also, make sure it is plugged in the right way. If it has power, check the air filters. Dirty filters can stop airflow and cause issues. Change them if they are dirty.


If these steps don't help, call a good HVAC technician. Henry Ford said, "Coming together is a start, staying together is moving forward, and working together is achieving." A trusted expert can repair your AC and keep your home cool in the summer.

Key Takeaways

  • Check the power supply and circuit breaker to make sure your AC unit is getting electricity.
  • Look at the air filters and change them if they are dirty. Clogged filters can block airflow.
  • Talk to a qualified HVAC technician if the basic steps do not fix the problem.
  • Regular care is important to stop future breakdowns and keep your AC working well.
  • Pick a good service provider that has a history of quality work and happy customers.

Initial Steps to Diagnose Your AC Problem

When your air conditioning stops, begin by checking the basics. Make sure it has power, the thermostat is set to 'cool,' and the air filters are clean. If it doesn’t turn on, look at the circuit breaker. If it has tripped, reset it and see if it works again.



If it is running but not getting cool enough, check the thermostat. It needs to be set to the right temperature. You should also listen for strange sounds or vibrations. This might mean there is a bigger problem, like an ac issue.

  • See if the unit has power.
  • Make sure the thermostat is on 'cool.'
  • Look at the air filters and clean them.
  • Look at the circuit breaker for any switched-off connections.
  • Listen for any strange sounds or vibrations from the unit.


If these steps do not solve the problem, you should call a professional. An HVAC technician can find and fix any issues. They have the right skills and tools to handle problems with the AC thermostat, leaks, or compressor issues.

Common Issues and Quick Fixes

Your air conditioning system can have several common issues. These problems can make it stop working well. A refrigerant leak, a broken compressor, or coils that are frozen are all normal problems. They can lead your AC to blow warm air instead of cool air.



Many of these problems can be fixed easily. For instance, adding more refrigerant or fixing a broken fan motor can help. However, serious issues like a compressor failure may require a new system.


If you are not sure what is wrong, a skilled HVAC technician can assist. They can examine your AC and recommend the best solution. They will ensure that your cooling system works properly again.

  • AC blowing warm air? It might be a refrigerant leak.
  • Is the AC not turning on? A compressor failure could be the cause.
  • If the coils are icing up, there may be drainage problems.
  • Having issues with the condenser fan motor? A replacement may be needed.

Maintenance Checks to Prevent Future Breakdowns

Regular care is important to keep your air conditioning system working well. It helps your AC unit last longer and saves you from high repair costs. By doing regular checks and adjustments, you can avoid expensive problems.



First, change your air filters every 1 to 3 months. Dirty filters can make your system work too hard. This can cause higher energy bills and other issues. Also, make sure to get a yearly checkup from a trusted HVAC technician.

  • During the tune-up, the technician will inspect your AC unit, clean the coils, and test refrigerant levels. They will also do any needed upkeep.
  • They will check your ductwork for leaks or blockages that could hurt your indoor air quality.
  • Consider getting a smart thermostat. It can help save energy by improving cooling cycles.


By using an AC maintenance checklist and getting regular tune-up services, you can prevent problems later. Don’t forget to change your AC filters and clean your coils and refrigerant when needed. Cleaning your HVAC ductwork regularly and installing a smart thermostat will also help your system work better.

When to Call an AC Repair Professional

Air conditioners are made to cool your home for a long time. However, there might be times when you need a professional to repair it. Knowing when to reach out to a technician can stop bigger and costlier issues.



If your AC blows warm air, it means there is a problem. This could be a refrigerant leak or a faulty compressor. If your AC keeps turning on and off or makes strange noises, you need to get it checked.

  • A big rise in your energy bills may mean your AC is not working correctly. It might need some repair.
  • If you notice bad smells from your AC or ducts, there could be mold or other problems. A professional needs to fix these.
  • If your AC trips a breaker or won’t turn on, you should call for HVAC repair right away.


At times, there might be a serious problem, like a broken compressor or needing a new AC unit. A skilled HVAC technician can check your system. They will tell you if it is better to fix it or get a new AC unit. They will also suggest the best ways to save energy for your home.

If you notice any signs that you need AC repair, act fast. Fixing AC problems right away can prevent more serious damage. It also helps your cooling system run well for a longer time.

Tips for Choosing the Right Service Provider

Finding a good AC repair company in Santa Clara is important. Begin by checking online reviews and ratings. This will help you learn about the reputation and quality of local HVAC contractors.



Ensure the company is licensed, bonded, and insured. This means they are qualified and care about their work.


Check the HVAC contractor’s qualifications. Good companies have certified and experienced workers. Ask about warranties on parts and labor for extra reassurance.

  • Look for HVAC services that are licensed and insured
  • Check for qualifications and certifications of HVAC contractors
  • Read reviews and ratings for AC repair to find the best providers
  • Ask about warranties and guarantees for HVAC services


Be careful when dealing with HVAC contractors who give very low quotes. A low price could mean they use cheap materials or don’t do good work. By choosing someone who is reliable and experienced, you can be sure your air conditioning system works well.

How EVS Mechanical Inc. Can Help You

At EVS Mechanical Inc., we are here for AC repair in Santa Clara, HVAC installation in Santa Clara, and AC services in Santa Clara. Our certified team is available to give fast, reliable, and high-quality emergency HVAC repair and ductwork cleaning services at any time. We want to keep your space comfortable throughout the year.


Need quick AC repair, routine care, or a new HVAC system? We can accomplish it effectively because we have the knowledge and resources. Our promise to you is clear, as is our fair pricing and satisfaction guarantee. Choosing EVS Mechanical Inc. means your HVAC system is safe.


Our team has skilled and certified workers. They can handle many HVAC systems. We work on traditional setups and advanced heat pumps. We pay attention to how well they work. Also, our support is available 24/7 for any questions or concerns you have.

Conclusion

If your air conditioner stops working in Santa Clara, you need to act quickly. First, check the simple things, like the power and air filters. Then, you can go to more complicated steps if you need to. If you still can't find the problem, it is time to call a professional HVAC technician.



Regular care is important too. It helps stop problems and keeps your AC working properly. Experts say you should change air filters every three months or when they are dirty. Dirty filters can make your AC shut down quickly.


When choosing an HVAC service, check their qualifications, reviews, and warranties. This way, you will get good and reliable help. You need professional support for problems like refrigerant leaks, overheating, and strange sounds.


By following these tips and taking care of your AC, your home will stay cool and comfortable all summer. Remember, it is important to know when to call a pro. This way, you can find a good HVAC company to help fix your air conditioning system.

FREquently Asked Questions

  • What should I check first if my AC stops working?

    First, make sure that your AC unit has power. Check the circuit breaker and see if the unit is plugged in. Also, check that the thermostat is set to 'cool' and that the temperature setting is lower than the room temperature.

  • How frequently should my AC's air filters be changed?

    It's a good idea to change your air filters every 1 to 3 months. It depends on how much you use your system and on things like dust and pet hair in your home. By changing the air filters often, you can keep good airflow and cooling performance.

  • What are some signs that my AC needs expert help?

    Common signs are the AC blowing warm air, making strange noises, turning on and off often, or giving off bad smells. If your energy bills go up suddenly, it might mean that your AC unit is not working well and needs to be serviced.

  • What can I do to keep my AC working well and avoid problems?

    Regular tasks for care include changing the air filters. You should check and clear the space around the outdoor unit to allow good airflow. You also need to listen for any strange noises or check for leaks. Adding a smart thermostat can help improve your AC's performance and save energy.

  • How do I choose the right HVAC technician for repairs?

    Look for a technician who is licensed, bonded, and insured. Make sure they have good reviews and a strong reputation. Check their qualifications and certifications. Ask about any warranties on parts and labor. Do not choose someone just for a low price. A very low quote may mean the quality of service or parts is lower.

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