Broken Air Conditioner? Before you call a HVAC Contractor, Try these steps first

1. Make sure the unit is turned on. Set your thermostat up high, and then turn it well below the current room temperature. Listen for the system to turn off. If it does not, there are two possibilities -- the breakers or fuses have blown, or the thermostat may not be functioning properly.

2. Check the breakers or fuses for the air conditioning unit. For a breaker box, open the panel up and check to see if any of the breakers have tripped to the "off" position. Move these back to the "on" position, and have someone else click the thermostat. If the breaker throws again while you're standing there, there may be an electrical issue with the air conditioner. If you have fuses, these will typically be located in a fuse box outside, next to the unit. Turn the fuse switch to the off position and examine the fuses. If any appear burned, or if they make a noise when you shake them, replace the fuses. Turn the switch back to the on position and then click the thermostat.

3. Check the air flow to the system. Blocked air flow is a common reason why air conditioners suddenly quit working. Go outside and check around the unit. If there are weeds or grass around it, trim these away and try the unit again.

4. Examine the unit for any visible signs of problems. If all of the above steps have failed and your unit still will not function, look for issues such as ice build-up on the indoor coil, leaking water from the unit, or oil that has spilled from the unit's casing. These are signs that you will need to contact a residential HVAC professional.