March 20, 2025
Air conditioning is one of those things you don’t think about—until it stops working. Suddenly, you’re left sweating it out, wondering if you can fix it yourself or if it’s time to call in the experts.
The good news? Not every issue needs a technician. Some problems have easy DIY solutions that can get your system running again in no time.
But for the bigger, trickier faults? That’s when Roberts Air Conditioning has your back. Let’s break down what you can fix yourself and when it’s time to call the pros.
Before you reach for the phone, try these easy troubleshooting steps—some issues are surprisingly simple to fix!
First, check the remote or thermostat.
Are the batteries dead? Is it set to the right mode? You wouldn’t believe how often this one gets overlooked!
Check the circuit breaker.
A tripped breaker can shut down your air con. Reset it and see if that does the trick.
If you’re using a smart thermostat, make sure it’s connected to Wi-Fi and running the latest software updates.
Clean the filters.
Dirty filters restrict airflow, making your system work harder than it needs to. If you haven’t cleaned or replaced them in a while, now’s the time. Most filters should be cleaned every 2–4 weeks.
Check the outdoor unit.
If leaves, dirt, or debris are clogging it up, your air con won’t be able to cool efficiently. A quick clean-up around the unit can help.
Adjust the vents.
Sometimes, airflow issues come down to blocked or closed vents. Make sure they’re open and free from obstructions like furniture or curtains.
A little noise is normal, but if you’re hearing rattling or buzzing, something could be loose.
Tighten screws and panels if you suspect vibrations are the cause.
If it sounds like there’s something inside the unit, check for debris—small twigs or leaves can sometimes get caught in the outdoor unit.
This is usually due to a clogged condensate drain. Over time, dust and debris can build up, causing water to back up and leak inside.
Try flushing the drain line with a mix of warm water and mild detergent or a bit of vinegar to clear out the blockage.
While some issues are easy fixes, others require a licensed technician. If you notice any of the following, it’s time to call Roberts Air Conditioning before the problem gets worse (and more expensive).
If your unit is set to cooling mode but pumping out warm air, there could be a refrigerant leak or a problem with the compressor.
Refrigerant isn’t something you can top up yourself—it requires professional handling and repairs.
Musty smells could mean mould or bacteria inside the system, which is bad news for air quality and your health.
Bad or sweet smells could also mean refrigerant is leaking out, and your air con might need a re-gas.
Burning smells could indicate electrical issues, which should be checked immediately to avoid damage or fire risks.
If your air con short cycles (keeps switching on and off too quickly), it could be a sensor issue, electrical fault, or a failing compressor.
Running your system like this for too long can cause serious damage, so it’s best to get it checked out ASAP.
If your air con freezes up, this could be due to low refrigerant, poor airflow, or a faulty sensor.
A technician will need to diagnose the cause and fix it properly—this isn’t one to DIY.
A sudden increase in your electricity bill could mean your air con isn’t running efficiently, possibly due to a faulty component or low refrigerant levels.
A professional service can identify and fix the issue before it costs you even more.
The best way to avoid costly repairs is to keep your air con in top shape with regular maintenance. At Roberts Air Conditioning, we offer professional servicing to ensure your system runs efficiently all year round.
A professional service includes:
A well-maintained air con lasts longer, cools better, and costs less to run—so don’t wait until something goes wrong!
If you’ve tried the easy fixes and your air con is still misbehaving, it’s time to call in the experts. At Roberts Air Conditioning, we handle everything from air conditioner installation, regular upkeep, breakdowns and repairs, to full system servicing—so you can get back to enjoying a cool, comfortable home without the stress.
Contact us today and let’s get your air con back in top shape!
