Step-by-step response
- 1Check the thermostat
Set to COOL, fan AUTO, setpoint 5°F below current temp. Wait 5 minutes. Listen for outdoor condenser starting.
- 2Check the breaker
Look for a tripped breaker labeled 'AC' or 'Condenser'. Reset fully off then on. Don't repeatedly reset if it keeps tripping.
- 3Look at the outdoor condenser
Coils visibly dirty? Spray with garden hose (power off first). Fan blade not spinning? Likely capacitor — call same-day.
- 4Check the filter
Choked filter restricts airflow + freezes the indoor coil, blocking cooling. Replace if dirty.
- 5Call HVAC for same-day diagnosis
If unit is 12+ years old AND repair quote is $700+: get a replacement quote too. Replace becomes economic at the 50% rule.
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Frequently asked
Why does my AC blow warm air?
Most common: blown capacitor (compressor isn't running), low refrigerant (slow leak), or frozen indoor coil from clogged filter or low refrigerant. The diagnosis decides the fix.
Should I repair or replace a 15-year-old AC?
If repair quote is over 50% of replacement, replace. Modern 16+ SEER systems are 30-40% more efficient — payback in 5-8 years. Plus 2026 IRA rebates for heat pumps.
Local context — Columbus, OH
Ohio's largest city + state capital. Mix of historic Short North + German Village brick housing (drives sewer-line and basement-waterproofing demand) and rapidly-growing newer suburbs (warranty appliance installs, panel upgrades for EV chargers). Heavy Ohio State University rental-maintenance market.