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When a ducted air conditioning system malfunctions, it can sometimes be difficult to figure out where the problem lies. These four troubleshooting steps can help you to identify the problem so you can either fix it or call an HVAC company to repair it for you.

1. Double-Check the Settings

It might sound obvious, but before you embark on any serious investigative work, it is always worth checking that the settings for your ducted air conditioning system are correct. It is so easy to accidentally set the target temperature too high and then forget that you have done it. Before you assume that your air conditioning system is blowing warm air as a result of a mechanical or electrical fault, take the time to look at the settings and check they are correct.

2. Replace or Clean the Filters

Ducted air conditioning systems use filters to remove dirt, dust, pollen, pet hair, and other contaminants from the cooled air that circulates inside your home. These contaminants can block the filters over time, reducing the flow of air through the ducts and resulting in inadequate cooling.

Remove the filters from the main unit of your ducted air conditioning system and clean them gently with a brush and soapy water. If filters are badly blocked or damaged in any way, you should replace them with ones from the same manufacturer. If you do not feel comfortable handling your AC filters, or do not know where to find them, schedule a maintenance check with an HVAC company who can replace them for you.

3. Repair the Ducts

Many problems with ducted air conditioning systems arise from small rips or holes in the ducts themselves. Check the ducts regularly for holes or leaks. Use duct tape to repair small areas of damage, or call in an HVAC specialist to repair badly leaking ducts.

Sometimes, ducts are located in difficult to access parts of the home, such as crawlspaces. In this case, you might find it easier to call in a professional than to try to locate the source of the problem yourself.

4. Address Electrical Issues

If the ducted air conditioning system often turns itself off before your home has cooled sufficiently, the problem could be with the electrical supply. When an electrical circuit trips, you can restore power simply by resetting the circuit breaker that controls that circuit. If the problem reoccurs, there is probably is a fault somewhere in the electrical system, which could be dangerous. Call in a professional to investigate.

For additional information on ducted air conditioning, reach out to a local HVAC contractor.