Blog Post: AC Troubleshooting Tips Every San Diego Homeowner Should Know This Summer
Introduction
When the San Diego heat kicks in, a failing AC system is the last thing any homeowner wants to deal with. Whether it’s warm air blowing, strange noises, or a unit that won’t power on, knowing how to troubleshoot common AC problems can save time, stress, and even money. In this post, we’ll walk you through the top AC troubleshooting tips for San Diego homeowners — and explain when it’s time to bring in the pros at Kent Electrical Services.
For more expert tips, check out Energy.gov's AC Maintenance Guide.
Common AC Problems & How to Spot Them
1. Your AC Isn’t Blowing Cold Air
If your AC is running but not cooling, check your thermostat settings and air filter. A dirty filter can block airflow, while incorrect thermostat settings might be preventing cooling. If these are fine, you could be facing a refrigerant issue — that’s when it’s time to contact a licensed technician.
2. Unit Keeps Tripping the Breaker
Frequent tripping is a red flag that your electrical panel may be overloaded or that there’s a short circuit in the system. Our electrical panel upgrade services in San Diego can help ensure your system can handle the summer load.
3. Strange Noises Coming From the AC
Buzzing, rattling, or screeching sounds can signal loose parts, a failing fan motor, or electrical issues. Catching these early helps avoid costly repairs.
4. Your AC Won’t Turn On
Before you panic, check your circuit breakers and thermostat batteries. If those aren’t the problem, it could be an issue with your wiring or your system’s capacitor.
Why Electrical Troubleshooting Matters
Many AC issues are tied directly to your home’s electrical system — not just the HVAC unit. If your system constantly trips the breaker or shows signs of poor power flow, your panel or wiring might be outdated. Learn more about our residential electrical services designed for summer readiness.
For local energy-saving resources, visit SDG&E - Summer Savings.
When to Call Kent Electrical Services
- Your system continues to trip breakers
- You hear electrical buzzing near the panel
- Your AC suddenly stops during peak hours
- You’re running multiple cooling units or appliances
Our licensed electricians in San Diego will inspect your panel, diagnose the problem, and ensure your system is running safely and efficiently — without the guesswork.
FAQ Section:
A: If your system trips breakers, won’t turn on, or shows signs of power failure, it’s likely electrical. If it’s blowing warm air or making noise, it could be HVAC. Kent Electrical can help identify the root cause.
Ready to Stay Cool This Summer?
Don’t sweat through another San Diego summer with AC issues. If you're experiencing problems, call us now at (760) 496-8846 or click the button below to request a callback, and one of our licensed electricians will help you get your cooling system running safely and efficiently.