There’s nothing worse than a broken air conditioner in the middle of a hot, humid Atlanta summer. If your system suddenly stops working, don’t panic—there are a few steps you can take right away to troubleshoot the issue. And if that doesn’t do the trick, Central Heating & Air Conditioning is just a phone call away to get things running again quickly and professionally.
Here’s what you should do the moment your AC breaks down:
Step 1: Check Your Thermostat
Start with the simplest fix—make sure your thermostat is set to “cool” and the temperature is set lower than the current room temp. Dead batteries or incorrect settings are easy to overlook and can stop your system from turning on. Try adjusting the settings and see if that helps kick things back into gear.
Step 2: Check the Circuit Breaker
A tripped breaker can cut power to your air conditioner. Head to your electrical panel and look for the breaker labeled for the AC. If it’s off, flip it back on. If it trips again soon after, this could signal an electrical issue, and it’s time to call in a professional.
Step 3: Change or Clean the Air Filter
A clogged air filter is one of the most common causes of AC problems. If airflow is restricted, your system can freeze up or stop working altogether. During Atlanta’s peak summer months, check your filter monthly and replace it if it’s dirty.
Step 4: Clear the Area Around the Outdoor Unit
Take a look at the outdoor unit. Is it surrounded by leaves, debris, or overgrown vegetation? If so, clear a two-foot radius around it to allow proper airflow. When your system can breathe, it runs more efficiently and is less likely to overheat or shut down.
Step 5: Look for Ice Build-Up
If you see ice forming on the indoor or outdoor components, turn the system off immediately. Ice can indicate airflow problems or low refrigerant levels. Continuing to run it could lead to compressor damage. Let it thaw completely—and then call Central Heating & Air Conditioning to diagnose and resolve the root cause.
Step 6: Try Resetting the System
Some AC units have a reset button—check your user manual to see if your unit does. After resetting, wait a few minutes before turning it back on. If the system still doesn’t respond or has the same issues, professional help is the safest option.
Step 7: Pay Attention to Leaks or Strange Noises
Hearing grinding, squealing, or banging? Noticing water pooling around your unit? These are signs that something’s wrong internally—possibly a refrigerant issue, a clogged drain line, or mechanical failure. Don’t wait—call Central’s experienced team for fast and effective service before further damage occurs.
Step 8: Call the Experts at Central Heating & Air Conditioning
If you’ve gone through the basic troubleshooting steps and your AC still isn’t working, don’t risk a DIY fix. Complex repairs require specialized tools, certified training, and a thorough understanding of HVAC systems. That’s where Central Heating & Air Conditioning comes in.
Serving Atlanta and the surrounding areas since 1947, we’re the trusted choice for fast, knowledgeable, and honest AC repair. Our technicians show up on time, diagnose the issue accurately, and offer clear, affordable solutions—because we know comfort can’t wait.
Prevent Future Breakdowns with Preventive Maintenance
Avoid the headache of a broken AC with routine maintenance. Central’s preventive service plans are designed to keep your system running efficiently and reliably year-round. Regular tune-ups help catch small issues before they become costly problems and can extend the life of your HVAC system.
- A few smart ways to keep your AC in top shape:
- Change air filters every 1–3 months
- Keep the outdoor unit clear of debris and vegetation
- Schedule annual maintenance with a licensed HVAC technician
- Inspect ductwork for blockages or leaks that can affect performance
Need AC Repair in Atlanta? Call Central Heating & Air Conditioning Today
Don’t sweat it when your AC goes out—Central Heating & Air Conditioning is here to help with expert, dependable service that gets you cool and comfortable again fast. Whether it’s a minor fix or a full system issue, we’re the team Atlanta homeowners have trusted for decades.
📞 Call us today at (404) 261-2280
🌐 Visit centralheatofga.com to schedule service or request a quote.
