Air Conditioning Repair Guide | Tips for Utah County
Published on June 28, 2025
When summer temperatures rise in Utah County and it starts to feel like Utah is in fact the desert they say it is, a working air conditioner is a must. Whether you’re in Provo, Orem, Lehi, or any of the surrounding cities, there is nothing worse than commuting home from to work to a sweltering home or trying to get some sleep when you’re sweating all night.
While some air conditioning repairs in Provo require a professional HVAC technician, many common issues can be solved at home with a little know-how.
In this guide, we’ll cover the most frequent air conditioning problems, step-by-step repair tips, essential maintenance advice, and when to call a local HVAC expert. These tips can help you stay cool, save money, and extend the life of your air conditioning system.
Table of Contents
- Understanding Your Air Conditioning System
- Safety First: Before You Start Repairs
- Top 7 DIY Air Conditioning Repair Tips
- Check Your Thermostat
- Inspect and Replace Air Filters
- Clear and Clean Around the Outdoor Unit
- Check Circuit Breakers and Power
- Unclog the Condensate Drain Line
- Clean the Evaporator and Condenser Coils
- Straighten Coil Fins
- Routine Maintenance Tips for AC Longevity
- When to Call a Utah County HVAC Pro
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Final Thoughts & Local Resources
Understanding Your Air Conditioning System
Before diving into repairs, it’s helpful to understand the basics of how your home air conditioner works. Most Utah County homes use a central air conditioning system, which includes:
- Indoor unit: Usually called the air handler, this houses the evaporator coil and blower.
- Outdoor unit: Contains the condenser coil, compressor, and a fan.
- Thermostat: Controls your desired temperature and signals the system to run.
- Ductwork: Circulates cool air throughout your home.
When any part of this system malfunctions, you’ll notice reduced cooling, strange noises, or higher energy bills.
Safety First: Before You Start Repairs
Always prioritize safety. Before you attempt any AC repairs or maintenance:
- Turn off power to the air conditioner at your electrical panel.
- Make sure the thermostat is off.
- Wear protective gloves and eyewear, especially when cleaning or working near moving parts.
- If you’re unsure, give us a call at Provo HVAC Repair for a free inspection and honest recommendations.
Top 7 DIY Air Conditioning Repair Tips
Here are the most common air conditioner issues—and how to troubleshoot or fix them yourself:
1. Check Your Thermostat
It might sound obvious, but many “broken” air conditioners just have the thermostat set incorrectly.
- Set to cool: Make sure the mode is set to “cool,” not “heat” or “fan only.”
- Lower the temperature: Set the desired temperature below the current room temp.
- Replace batteries: If your thermostat uses batteries, swap them for fresh ones.
A malfunctioning thermostat is a common culprit for AC problems in homes across Utah County, so double-check before moving on.
2. Inspect and Replace Air Filters
A dirty or clogged air filter restricts airflow, causing your system to work harder or even shut down.
- Location: Find your air handler or furnace (often in a basement or closet). The filter slides in near the blower fan.
- How often: Check monthly, especially during the hot Utah summer months.
- How to replace: Slide out the old filter, insert a new one with arrows pointing in the direction of airflow.
Tip: A clean filter can fix weak airflow and help prevent costly repairs.
3. Clear and Clean Around the Outdoor Unit
Utah County homes, especially those near trees or new developments, often have outdoor AC units blocked by debris.
- Clear away leaves, dirt, and weeds at least 2–3 feet around the condenser.
- Clean the fins: Use a gentle spray from a garden hose (never high pressure) to remove dust and dirt.
- Check for obstructions: Items stacked near or on top of the unit can cause overheating.
A well-ventilated outdoor unit boosts system efficiency and extends equipment life.
4. Check Circuit Breakers and Power
Sometimes, the fix is as simple as a tripped breaker.
- Check the electrical panel: Find the breaker labeled “AC” or “air conditioner.” If it’s tripped, turn it off, then back on.
- Inspect the disconnect box (usually outside near the condenser). Make sure the switch is set to “on.”
- Test other appliances: If other electronics aren’t working, there may be a wider electrical issue.
If your system still won’t power up, give us a call for a free inspection and diagnosis.
5. Unclog the Condensate Drain Line
If your air conditioner suddenly stops cooling or leaks water indoors, a clogged condensate drain line could be to blame—especially during our hot, dry summers.
- Find the drain line:
- Look for a white PVC pipe attached to your indoor air handler or furnace. It often runs from the unit to a drain on the floor, a utility sink, or leads outside the house. In Utah County homes, you’ll typically find it near the base of the inside unit, or exiting through an exterior wall just outside where your AC system is located.
- Check for clogs:
- First, locate the end of the drain line—this might be outside your home or near a floor drain. Inspect the opening for visible debris or buildup. If water is pooling near your indoor unit or leaking inside, that’s a sign the line may be clogged.
- To clear it, attach a wet/dry vacuum to the end of the pipe (seal it with a towel or duct tape for better suction), then run the vacuum for about 2–3 minutes to suck out any blockage. You may hear a “slurp” when the clog clears.
- Clean the line:
- Once clear, slowly pour about one cup of distilled white vinegar down the drain line from the indoor end (there’s usually a small access cap you can remove; if not, use a funnel to pour into the pipe). Let the vinegar sit for 30 minutes to break down any mold or algae inside. Afterward, flush the line with a small amount of water to ensure it drains freely.
Doing this every few months can help prevent future clogs and keep your AC running efficiently.
6. Clean the Evaporator and Condenser Coils
Dirty coils force your AC system to work harder, raising energy bills and lowering cooling power.
- Turn off power before cleaning.
- Locate the coil: The evaporator coil is usually found inside your furnace or air handler, behind a removable access panel. You may need a screwdriver to remove this panel. It’s typically on the side or front of the unit.
- Gently clean the coil:Use a soft brush or a clean, dry cloth to gently remove dust and loose debris from the coil and fins.
- Outdoor condenser coil: Clean with a hose and coil cleaner. Be careful not to bend the fins.
For a more detailed guide on how to clean your AC’s evaporator and condenser coils, check out this guide from QuiteCarbon.com
Regular coil cleaning will help extend your AC unit’s life and improve system efficiency.
7. Straighten Coil Fins
The thin metal fins on your outdoor condenser unit can get bent, blocking airflow.
- Fin comb: Available at hardware stores, gently run the comb through the fins to straighten them.
- Careful: Do not insert the comb too deep or apply too much force.
This simple step can improve your AC’s efficiency and cooling power.
Routine Maintenance Tips for AC Longevity
In addition to DIY repairs, regular maintenance keeps your system working its best. Here’s a basic schedule for Utah County homeowners:
- Spring:
- Replace air filters
- Clear outdoor unit debris
- Call us to schedule your professional HVAC inspection (ask for our pre-season tune-up)
- Summer:
- Check thermostat operation
- Inspect and clean drain lines
- Fall/Winter:
- Turn off power to outdoor unit if not used in winter
- Cover unit if desired (but don’t block airflow)
Bonus Tip:
If you want to really impress your parents, keep a maintenance log can help you spot patterns and catch issues early.
When to Call a Utah County HVAC Pro
While many AC issues can be handled at home, don’t hesitate to call or text Provo HVAC Repair if you experience:
- Unusual noises (grinding, squealing, banging)
- No cool air despite system running
- Strange odors from vents
- Ice buildup on coils or refrigerant lines
- Frequent breaker trips
- Leaking refrigerant (you may notice hissing sounds or oily residue)
We’ll quickly diagnose the issues, provide honest recommendations, and perform thorough repairs, to get your unit working without worry in no time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I replace my air filter in Utah County?
A: Every 1–3 months, depending on usage, pets, and local air quality.
Q: Can I add refrigerant to my AC myself?
A: No. Refrigerant handling requires EPA certification. Always call a licensed professional.
Q: Why is my AC running but not cooling my home?
A: Check your thermostat, replace the air filter, and ensure the outdoor unit is clean. If problems persist, give us a call today.
Q: Are AC repairs covered by homeowners insurance?
A: If your AC stops working because an old part finally wore out, that’s usually not covered. But if a tree branch falls during a storm and damages your unit, your policy may help with repairs.
Q: What’s the average cost of air conditioning repair in Utah County?
A: Minor repairs (like capacitor or contactor replacement) often range from $150–$400. Major repairs can be more; always get a quote from a trusted local technician.
Q: If I find that I need to call a contractor to help get my issues resolved, who should I call?
A: Call or text us at Provo HVAC Repair—your honest, local HVAC experts in Utah County. We specialize in working with the unique structures and ages of homes and properties throughout the Provo area. Whether your house is historic or brand new, you can trust us for reliable service.
Final Thoughts & Local Resources
Taking care of your air conditioning system is essential for comfort, energy savings, and peace of mind—especially in Utah County’s hot summers. By following these repair and maintenance tips an avoid common problems and enjoy reliable cooling all season long. Just as they say, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.
But if you’ve tried these steps and your AC still isn’t working, or you want a professional tune-up, call or text us today to schedule your free inspection and diagnosis.
