If you notice that your house is not comfortably cool as you like it in the heat of the summer, you probably start looking up the phone number for an air conditioning repair company. However, before you make the call, there are a few things you should check. It is possible that the fix is something you can handle on your own. This will not only save you money but will have the house more comfortable faster.

Filters

If the unit is coming on, but the air coming out of the vents seems to be very minimal, the problem could be dirty filters. The first filter to check is in the intake air duct. If it is clogged, the unit is not getting enough air to cool and push through the house. Once that one is clean, check any filters that are in the ducts or vents. Be sure to check the unit itself for any filters. Look at any vents on the sides. The filter could appear to be a folded piece of paper. If there are vents, but no filters, be sure that the vents are not clogged.

Thermostat

When the unit does not come on at all, you should check the thermostat. First, make sure that it is set to "cool," and at a lower temperature than what it says the air is at. In other words, if the thermostat is reading the room temperature as 80 degrees Fahrenheit, make sure that the unit is set to turn on at 79 degrees or lower. If this does not work, check that the thermostat is working. Use a different thermostat to check the indoor temperature. You can use one that you have to tell you the outside temperature. Just bring it inside and wait for it to adjust to the indoor temperature. If there is a problem with the thermostat, you can buy one at a local hardware store. Simply follow the instructions to replace the old one, as it is not difficult.

If cleaning the filters or replacing the thermostat does not have the unit working properly, it is probably time to call for air conditioning repair services. Be sure to tell whoever answers the call what is happening with the unit and what you have done to try to fix it. This can save time when the technician arrives at your home. It will also help him or her to be sure to have any possibly needed parts on the truck.

For more information, contact Cape Fear Air Conditioning & Heating Co., Inc. or a similar company.