In the Las Vegas summer, daytime temperatures can hit well above 100 degrees. That means every minute without air conditioning feels like an eternity. So, we understand if you want to check out your AC yourself instead of waiting for an appointment with a repair service. However, some problems require expert tools and knowledge. How do you tell the difference?

Learn what you can handle and what to leave to the pros with our guide to troubleshooting an AC unit.

How to Troubleshoot an AC Unit in Your Las Vegas Home

Are you just learning how to troubleshoot central AC or a window air conditioner? What you do next all depends on what problem you have. Check these common problems and fixes off your AC troubleshooting checklist:

Your Air Conditioner Is Making Noise

How you troubleshoot unusual sounds depends on what kind of noise your AC is making. Here are your next steps based on the sound you hear:

  • Rattling. Loud, metallic rattling is often caused by detached or broken parts in the AC unit. An expert should always check this issue out, to replace the broken parts and look for further damage.
  • Buzzing. Easy to troubleshoot, quiet rattling or buzzing may come from debris stuck in your outside AC unit. Check your compressor unit and clear it of any branches, leaves, or other debris.
  • Humming. Vibrations can shake parts loose over time, making them hum while the AC runs. A homeowner could attempt to tighten the fastenings on the fan blades and refrigerant piping. If the noise continues, call an expert.
  • Clicking. If you hear clicking while your AC runs (not just as it turns on and off), you may need to have your thermostat replaced by the pros.
  • Whistling. Loud, high-pitched whistling usually accompanies a refrigerant leak. If you hear a whistle that sounds almost like a scream, turn off your AC immediately and call for emergency service.

Your Air Conditioner Won’t Turn Off

While your air conditioner will almost certainly be running throughout the day to beat the Las Vegas heat, it shouldn’t blow cool air unendingly. There are a few reasons your AC might run without stopping.

Your first steps are to try changing your air filter and double-checking your thermostat temperature and fan settings. A dirty air filter can make your system run all day due to lowered efficiency. If your thermostat is set too low, it may keep your AC on permanently, trying to reach an impossible temperature. Dirt and grime can also slow down your AC fan blades, making the whole system work harder to cool. Gently clean the fan with a 1:1 vinegar and water solution to get rid of the worst grime.

Other problems require professional intervention. If your problem is electrical, you’ll need an electrician to fix the wiring in your home or an AC replacement for a unit that’s going bad. Faulty parts, such as a fan limit switch, will need to be replaced while dirty or iced-over condenser coils need to be cleaned and repaired by an expert.

Your Air Conditioner Keeps Turning On and Off

This process is called short cycling and happens for many of the same reasons that an AC won’t turn off. Try changing out your air filter and making sure vents and registers are open and unblocked. If you’re still struggling, the problem is likely electrical or dirty condenser coils. It’s time to call in the pros.

Your Air Conditioner Blows Warm Air

First, you should—you guessed it—change your air filter in case it’s dirty. Make sure the MERV rating of your filter is below what your system can handle. This usually maxes out at about 13, but the limit for your AC can be lower. Check your thermostat settings to make sure it’s set to “auto,” not “fan.” If it’s not on auto, your fan could be blowing warm air between cooling cycles.

Frozen evaporator coils, leaky ductwork, a refrigerant leak, and an aging system are other common problems that require professional repair or replacement.

Your Air Conditioner Drain Is Backed Up

Your air conditioner produces water as it runs—even in the dry heat of Las Vegas. It should drain out of a hose in a central outdoor unit or collect in a drain pan on a window AC. However, drainage can sometimes get clogged, backing water up into the AC. Clear debris from the drainage hole of your outdoor compressor and make sure to regularly empty the drain pan on your window unit.

If your air conditioner has taken water damage from a backed-up drain or drain pan, call an expert for repairs.

Let the Pros Get Your AC Up and Running

The technicians at One Hour Air Conditioning & Heating of Las Vegas have the expertise and tools to fix a vast array of air conditioner problems. We’ll get you back to a cool, comfortable home in no time. Just give us a call at (702) 602-8801.