Check Before Calling AC Company for Repair

1. Check Your Thermostat Settings & Batteries: Quick 1-Minute Check

• Screen blank? Pop off the cover and swap in fresh AA batteries.
• Check the mode: Make sure it’s set to COOL (not HEAT or FAN ONLY) and set at least 3 degrees below your home’s current temperature.
• Fan setting: Set the fan to AUTO, not "ON." Running the fan constantly blows warm, humid air back into your home between cooling cycles.

2. Give the System 5 Minutes (Power Delay): Patient Check

Did your power flicker during a typical Sunrise afternoon thunderstorm? Modern thermostats have built-in short-cycle protection to safeguard the compressor. If the "Cool On" light is blinking, give the system 5 full minutes to reset itself before assuming it's broken.

3. Inspect & Replace Your Air Filter: Airflow Check

• A clogged air filter starves your system of airflow. This forces the indoor coils to drop below freezing, turning them into a solid block of ice.

  If you see ice on the copper line or air handler: Turn the AC OFF immediately and switch the fan setting to ON to thaw the coils. Running an icy AC can burn out the compressor.

4. Check Your Circuit Breakers (Inside & Outside): Electrical Check.

• Heavy electrical loads and summer power surges frequently trip breakers.

  • Check your main indoor breaker panel for a tripped switch (flip it all the way OFF, then back ON).

  • Check the outside disconnect box mounted on the wall near your outdoor condenser unit to ensure it hasn't tripped or been switched off.

5. Clear the Condensate Float Switch: Moisture & Water Check

• In South Florida’s high humidity, algae and slime grow fast inside drain lines. When the line clogs, your AC’s safety float switch automatically shuts the unit down to prevent water from backing up and flooding your ceilings or floors. Check the drain pan near your indoor unit—if it’s full of standing water, clearing the line or shop-vac’ing the drain line outside can often turn the AC right back on.

6. Check Space Around the Outside Unit: Outdoor Clearance

• Take a quick look outside. Florida foliage grows fast! Make sure palm fronds, bushes, or debris aren't blocking airflow around your condenser unit. It needs at least 2 to 3 feet of clear space on all sides to properly dump heat.