Steps to Take When Your AC Stops Working in Lewiston

When your AC suddenly stops working in the middle of a hot summer day in Lewiston, it can quickly become uncomfortable indoors. Whether you're trying to get through a work-from-home day or hosting family over the weekend, a broken AC can be stressful. You're left wondering if it's a major repair or just something minor you can check first.

In most cases, there are a few simple steps you can take before calling for help. Sometimes, the fix is much easier than you'd expect. For example, a homeowner once called after sweating through the night, only to find that their thermostat had accidentally been switched to "heat." Whether it’s a thermostat setting, a tripped breaker, or a clogged filter, checking these basic items can often save time and restore comfort faster.

Check the Thermostat Settings

Before you assume there’s a major issue with your AC, the thermostat is the first place to check. It controls when and how the system turns on, so it’s important to make sure it’s working correctly.

Go through these steps to rule out thermostat issues:

- Make sure the thermostat is set to “cool.”
- Confirm the set temperature is lower than the current room temperature.
- Check if your thermostat display is working. If it’s blank, the batteries might be dead (for non-hardwired units).
- Look to see if any scheduled settings or vacation modes are currently active.

Even a small mistake like setting the thermostat a few degrees too high can stop the system from blowing cool air. If you recently changed schedules or someone else in the home used the control, double-checking the settings can make a big difference. Also, older thermostats can malfunction or lose calibration over time, causing the system to behave unpredictably. Without a properly working thermostat, even a healthy AC unit won’t run.

Inspect the Air Filter

Another common reason for poor AC performance is a clogged or dirty air filter. Filters keep dust, pollen, and debris from getting into your AC system, but when they get filled up, airflow slows down.

Here’s how to inspect and deal with the air filter:

- Locate the return vent or indoor air handler where the filter is installed.
- Slide the filter out and hold it up to the light. If you can’t see light clearly through it, it’s time to replace it.
- Use the size printed on the filter to buy the correct replacement.
- Most filters should be replaced every 1 to 3 months, depending on use and air quality inside the home.

Blockages caused by a dirty filter prevent air from moving over the coils, which can cause the system to shut off early or freeze up. Even if your AC does turn on, it may not cool the home effectively. Keep a few replacement filters on hand so you can change them as needed.

Examine the Circuit Breakers

Sometimes the AC itself is working fine, but power to the system has been interrupted. A tripped circuit breaker is often the reason behind a system that won’t turn on at all.

Take these steps to check:

- Find your home’s main electrical panel, usually located in the garage, basement, or utility room.
- Look for breakers labeled “AC,” “air handler,” or “cooling system.”
- If any breakers are in the “off” position or appear in between on and off, flip them firmly off, then back on to reset.
- Wait a few moments, then try turning your AC back on.

If the breaker trips again right after being reset, don’t keep flipping it. There may be an underlying electrical issue that needs professional attention. Repeated tripping can cause damage or signal a fault in the wiring or the AC itself. If your panel isn’t labeled or you feel unsure, you’re better off contacting our professionals. Electrical safety should always be a priority.

Look for Visible Issues with the Outdoor Unit

If your thermostat is working, the filter’s clean, and the breakers are fine, step outside and take a look at the outdoor unit. This part of the system handles the heat exchange process, and if it’s blocked or dirty, cooling can slow down or stop.

You’re checking for:

- Leaves, branches, or grass clippings blocking the sides or top of the unit
- Ice buildup on any of the coils
- Visible signs of damage like dented panels or loose wiring

If you notice any buildup or debris, power the system off at the breaker before gently clearing it away. Trim back any weeds or bushes crowding the unit to allow for enough airflow. Do not try to open the unit or clean internal parts, as this can cause damage or lead to injury. If the unit is frozen or leaking, it’s time to call our technicians for further inspection. Air circulation around the outdoor unit plays a big role in how well your AC can cool your home, especially during the summer months in Lewiston.

When to Call Our Professionals

If you’ve checked the thermostat, replaced the air filter, confirmed the breakers are working, and inspected the outdoor unit, but your AC still isn’t running or cooling the way it should, it’s time to bring in our professionals. Continuing to run a damaged or failing system without repair can cause further damage and shorten the system’s lifespan.

Here are signs you shouldn’t ignore:

- The AC turns on but pushes out warm or room-temperature air
- Loud noises come from the indoor or outdoor unit
- There’s visible water leaking around the system or ice on the coils
- The unit starts but shuts off again within a few minutes
- Your power bills spike even though usage hasn’t changed

These are indicators of potential problems like low refrigerant, electrical faults, or failed components. Trying to troubleshoot these on your own could lead to safety risks or more expensive repairs down the road. Our technicians have the tools to diagnose and address these deeper system issues, safely and effectively. They can also spot small problems that haven’t fully developed yet, helping avoid future breakdowns when you need your AC most.

It’s especially important to contact our team if your system is older or has been repaired multiple times in the past. Sometimes putting more time and money into an older system doesn’t make sense anymore. Our professionals can help you understand your options and get your AC back on track so your home stays comfortable without delays.

Keeping Your Home Comfortable

Getting stuck without a working AC in Lewiston isn’t just frustrating. It can make your home feel unbearable, especially during mid-August when temperatures tend to stay high. The faster you take steps to check for simple problems, the faster you can restore your comfort or figure out if expert help is needed.

Routine maintenance can go a long way in preventing these mid-summer surprises. Taking a few minutes each month to check your filter, keeping the area around your outdoor unit clear, and staying aware of any performance changes in your system keeps things running smoothly during peak heat. Don’t wait until your AC stops completely to take action. Small changes in cooling or airflow are often early signs that something’s off.

Nothing replaces regular check-ups by trained technicians. Just like how you’d take your car in for a tune-up before a long trip, your AC unit should be inspected before or during the summer to avoid a sudden breakdown. Proactive care helps catch problems early and gives your AC the best chance to perform when it matters most.

By paying attention to your AC’s basic functions and reaching out when something seems off, your home can stay cool all summer long. Lewiston summers are much easier to enjoy when you’re not worrying about rising temperatures inside the house.

When your cooling system continues to struggle despite your checks, it may be time to rely on professional experts to keep your home comfortable. Our professionals are experienced in quickly resolving hidden issues so you can enjoy a worry-free summer. Consider expert support with AC repair in Lewiston to restore your unit's performance. For a quick estimate or to schedule a service visit, please contact us today.