What to Check Before Calling for AC Repair

When your air conditioner stops cooling or doesn’t seem to be working properly, it’s natural to assume something is broken. In many cases, the issue does require professional repair, but not always. Some AC problems are caused by simple, easily overlooked issues that homeowners can safely check in just a few minutes.

At Williams Air Solutions, we’re always happy to help, but we also believe in saving homeowners time, money, and unnecessary service calls when the fix is straightforward. Before calling for AC repair, here are a few important things every Florida homeowner should check.

1. Check the Thermostat Settings

This is the most common and most overlooked issue.

Make sure:

• The thermostat is set to Cool
• The temperature is set below the current room temperature
• The fan is set to Auto, not On

If the fan is set to “On,” it may blow air even when the AC isn’t cooling.

2. Replace or Inspect the Air Filter

Dirty filters are a major cause of AC performance issues in Florida.

A clogged filter can:

• Restrict airflow
• Cause poor cooling
• Lead to frozen coils
• Increase energy bills

If the filter looks dirty, replace it and allow the system time to stabilize.

3. Check the Circuit Breaker

Power issues are common after storms or power surges.

Look for:

• A tripped breaker labeled AC or HVAC
• A breaker that won’t stay reset

If the breaker trips repeatedly, stop resetting it and call for service, this can indicate an electrical problem.

4. Look for Ice on the System

Check:

• Refrigerant lines near the indoor unit
• The indoor coil area (if accessible)

If you see ice:

• Turn the AC off
• Switch the fan to “On” to help thaw
• Call for professional service

Running the system while frozen can cause serious damage.

5. Inspect the Outdoor Unit

Make sure:

• The outdoor unit is free of debris
• Plants, mulch, and leaves aren’t blocking airflow
• The unit hasn’t been damaged by storms or yard equipment

Restricted airflow can cause overheating and shutdowns.

6. Check the AC Drain Line and Area Around the Air Handler

In Florida’s humidity, drain issues are common.

Look for:

• Standing water near the indoor unit
• A tripped float switch
• Signs of water damage

Drain backups can shut the system off as a safety measure.

7. Confirm the AC Is Actually Running

Sometimes the indoor fan runs, but the outdoor unit does not.

Listen for:

• The outdoor unit starting
• Unusual buzzing or humming sounds

If the outdoor unit isn’t running, the issue may be electrical or component-related.

8. Check for Recent Power Outages or Storms

Power interruptions can:

• Disrupt thermostat communication
• Damage electrical components
• Trip safety switches

If the AC stopped working after a storm, professional inspection is often needed.

9. Give the System Time After Changes

After changing a filter or adjusting the thermostat:

• Allow at least 10–15 minutes
• Avoid rapid setting changes

Short cycling from frequent adjustments can cause confusion and stress on the system.

Call a professional if:

• The system still isn’t cooling
• Breakers continue tripping
• Ice returns after thawing
• The AC won’t turn on at all
• You hear unusual noises
• Water is leaking around the unit



These are signs of issues that should not be ignored.

Catching problems early:

• Prevents major component damage
• Reduces repair costs
• Avoids emergency breakdowns
• Protects system lifespan



Waiting rarely makes AC problems better, especially in Florida heat.

Before calling for AC repair, taking a few minutes to check the basics can sometimes resolve the issue or provide valuable information for your technician. When the problem goes beyond these simple checks, professional service ensures the system is repaired safely and correctly.

At Williams Air Solutions, we diagnose AC issues accurately and fix them right the first time, no guesswork, no unnecessary repairs.

If you’ve checked the basics and your AC still isn’t working properly, call Williams Air Solutions at (727) 353-0090 for professional residential AC repair in Pinellas County.