When Your AC Fails: A Step-by-Step Guide for Homeowners

It's the middle of a hot summer day in La Crosse, and your air conditioner suddenly stops blowing cool air. Or worse—nothing comes on at all. At Paul's Heating & Air Conditioning, we know just how stressful that moment can be. But before you make a phone call or bring out your tool box, take a few minutes to walk through these basic steps. Many AC issues can be resolved quickly without needing a service call, but if you need a hand, we're here to

help.

Step 1: Stay Calm and Prioritize Safety

The first thing to do is stay calm. AC systems are complex but often resilient. That said, there are a few red flags that mean you should stop troubleshooting and call a professional immediately:

• Smell something burning? Please turn off your system at the breaker and call us.

• See smoke or sparks? Evacuate the area and contact emergency services.

• Is water leaking around the unit? Turn the system off to avoid water damage or electrical hazards.

Safety Tip: Never attempt to open the AC unit's electrical panel unless you are trained to do so.

Step 2: Double Check the Thermostat

It might sound too simple to be the problem—but thermostats can be accidentally bumped or reset, especially in households with kids.

• Make sure your setting is at "Cool", then make sure the temperature is lower than the current room temperature.

• If the screen is blank, the batteries might be dead. Replace them and wait a

moment.

• Try lowering the temperature by 3–5 degrees to see if the system kicks in.

At Paul's Heating & Air Conditioning, we see this scenario more often than expected—so don't skip it!

Step 3: Check Your Circuit Breaker

If your AC unit lost power suddenly, it may have tripped the circuit breaker.

• Locate your breaker box and check the switch labeled "AC" or "HVAC."

• If it's tripped (in the middle position), flip it fully to "off" and then back to "on."

If the breaker trips again, don't attempt a third reset. The constant tripping is a sign that there could be a bigger underlying electrical issue - one that requires professional attention.

Step 4: Inspect Your Air Filter

Is it dirty? Clogged? If so, this could be the culprit capable of all sorts of issues—from poor airflow to system shutdowns.

• Locate your system's air filter (often near the return air duct or inside the furnace cabinet).

• If it looks dusty or discolored, replace it.

• Going forward, aim to change your filter every 1–3 months.

Dirty filters are one of the most common causes of AC problems—and one of the easiest to prevent!

Step 5: Look Outside

Your condenser unit (the big box outside your home) plays a significant role in cooling your air. If it's blocked or dirty, your system may struggle—or stop altogether.

• Make sure there's at least 2 feet of clearance around the unit.

• Get rid of anything in the way. Think branches, vines, leaves, or grass clippings.

• If the fins are dusty, you can gently hose them off (after shutting off power at the breaker).

When it comes to the metal fins, do not bend them. Their job is to help release heat from your home.

Step 6: Still No Luck? It's Time to Call the Experts

If you've worked through these steps and your air conditioner still isn't running properly, call Paul's Heating & Air Conditioning.

Common signs you need a professional:

• Warm air blowing even when the AC is on

• Weak airflow from your vents

• Loud clanking, banging, or grinding noises

• Ice buildup on the coils

• Water leaking around the unit

• The thermostat appears to work, but the system doesn't respond

Our licensed HVAC technicians will diagnose the issue quickly and offer repair options that are fair, honest, and long-lasting. We're proud to be the trusted AC repair experts in La Crosse, Onalaska, Holmen, and the surrounding areas.

Prevent Future AC Breakdowns

To keep your home cool and your AC running, follow these tips:

• Schedule seasonal maintenance: We recommend a professional AC tune-up each spring to catch issues before they become major repairs.

• Keep your filter clean: Set a reminder to check it monthly during high-use months.

• Clear debris from the outdoor unit regularly: This simple habit helps maintain airflow and efficiency.

• Upgrade when it's time: If your system is over 10–15 years old and constantly needs repairs, it's time to upgrade your model. This can save you money and frustration in the long-term.

Why Choose Paul's Heating & Air Conditioning?

We've been keeping homes cool (and warm!) in Western Wisconsin since 1957. When your AC stops doing its job, you can rely on Paul's Heating and Air Conditioning for fast service, honest pricing, and expert advice. Whether it's a minor fix or a major repair, we treat your home like our own. Your comfort is our business!

We're here 24/7. At Paul's Heating and Air Conditioning, we always have a technician on call and ready to assist you with any emergency service you need. Just call 833-900-7904.

Final Thoughts

An unexpected AC failure can be stressful—but with the right steps and the right team behind you, you'll be comfortable again in no time. Keep this guide handy, and remember: if you ever feel unsure, call the professionals at Paul's Heating & Air Conditioning. We're here to help every season of the year.