AC Not Working in Mesa or Tucson? Here’s What to Check Before Calling the Pros

When your air conditioner stops working in the Arizona heat, panic can set in fast.

But before you reach for the phone, there are a few things you can troubleshoot yourself. Whether you live in Tucson, Mesa, or anywhere in the Valley, a quick DIY check could save you time, money, and a service call.

Here are some common AC issues and simple fixes you can try at home before calling Western States Home Services for professional AC service in Mesa or Tucson.

1. Check Your Thermostat First

Why it matters: Sometimes it’s not the your Mesa or Tucson air conditioning at all—it’s your thermostat.

What to check:

• Is it set to “Cool” and not just “Fan”?
• Are the batteries dead?
• Has the schedule or temperature setting been changed?
• Was there a power outage that reset the system?

Quick fix: Replace batteries, reset your schedule, or switch to the right mode.

2. Look at Your Breaker Box

Why it matters: Your system might have tripped a breaker, especially during high usage.

What to check:

• Locate your home’s main electrical panel
• Look for any tripped breakers, especially labeled HVAC or AC

Quick fix: Flip the switch fully OFF and then back ON. If it trips again, call a pro—you may have an electrical issue.

3. Replace or Clean the Air Filter

Why it matters: A dirty air filter restricts airflow and can cause your system to overheat or shut down.

What to do:

• Check your filter (usually located behind a return vent or inside the unit)
• If it’s dark, clogged, or hasn’t been changed in over 60 days, replace it

Quick fix: Keep a few filters on hand and change every 1-2 months—more often in Arizona dust storms or with pets.

4. Clear Debris Around the Outdoor Unit

Why it matters: The condenser (outside unit) needs airflow to cool properly.

What to check:

• Look for leaves, dirt, branches, or overgrown bushes around the unit
• Ensure nothing is blocking the fan blades

Quick fix: Clear at least 2 feet of space around the unit. Rinse the coils gently with a hose if needed (but not at high pressure).

5. Move Heat Sources Away from the Thermostat

Why it matters: If a lamp or TV is near the thermostat, it can trick it into thinking your home is hotter than it is.

Quick fix: Relocate any electronics or lamps that might generate heat near the thermostat.

6. Check Vents and Airflow Inside

Why it matters: Even if your AC is running, blocked or closed vents can reduce comfort.

What to check:

• Are rugs, furniture, or curtains blocking vents?
• Are the vents open?

Quick fix: Unblock and clean vents with a vacuum. Ensure registers are fully open in every room.

7. Still No Cool Air? Call the Pros.

If you’ve tried all of the above and your AC still isn’t cooling, it’s time for a professional diagnosis.

At Western States Home Services, our trained Mesa AC contractors can quickly identify issues like:

• Refrigerant leaks
• Blower motor failures
• Electrical component damage
• Thermostat malfunctions
• Frozen evaporator coils

We offer same-day AC repair in Mesa, Tucson, and surrounding areas so you can get back to comfort fast.

Don’t Sweat It—Call Western States Home Services Today

Your comfort is our priority. Whether your AC just stopped or has been acting up for a while, our team is here with fast, friendly, and affordable service across Arizona.

Call now to schedule your AC repair in Tucson or Mesa!

Customer Q&A: AC Troubleshooting in Arizona