When the air conditioner breaks, it can cause frustration for homeowners, especially if the system shuts down during a heatwave. If you’re a panicked homeowner looking for answers about your broken air conditioner, here are some of the most frequently asked questions we’ve received over the phone and online.

What can I try before calling for AC service?
Sometimes there’s an easy fix for a broken air conditioner. Before calling for AC repair, try these three things:

1. Ensure thermostat settings weren’t changed. Every thermostat is different, but you want to check that the system is ON, set to COOL and that batteries don’t need to be changed.
2. Many AC problems are the result of a filter that hasn’t been cleaned or replaced, so before calling for service, check your furnace filter. If it’s dirty, follow the instructions to either clean or replace it.
3. Head outside and check the outdoor condenser. Clear away any debris and cut back shrubs that are restricting the air flow around the unit.

If these fixes don’t help, then it’s time to call for professional help. We never recommend homeowners try to diagnose the problem by opening up the outdoor or indoor unit, please leave that to a professional.

How quickly can I get AC service?
Our aim to help our customers as soon as possible, so we dispatch a technician as soon as one is available. When calling for service, you’ll be informed of the first available appointment time.

Please note that during times of extreme heat, we could experience higher-than-normal demand.

Are repairs covered under the manufacturer warranty?
Every manufacturer has different terms and conditioners, so we won’t be able to let you know if the repair is covered until we diagnose the problem and determine your warranty coverage. However, one thing to keep in mind is that manufacturer warranties usually only cover the cost of a replacement part—not the labour associated with the repair.

My air conditioner is old, should I repair it or just upgrade to a new one?
This is a common question and we can’t give you an honest answer until we inspect your system. If the issue is minor and covered under a warranty or protection plan, it likely makes sense to repair; however, if the system is old and prone to future breakdowns, it might make more financial sense to put repair funds towards a new system. The technician should clearly outline your options so you can make an informed decision.

If you have a broken air conditioner,
don’t hesitate to contact Fahrhall Home Comfort Specialists to schedule a service call.

Fahrhall has been in the HVAC business for over 50 years. Our certified technicians are experts when it comes to air conditioner maintenance and installation and we take pride in providing outstanding service to the customers and community in the Windsor-Essex & Chatham-Kent areas.

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