Home air conditioners are one of the most valued appliances during the summer months. So, when the AC unit stops working well or fails completely, there is a panic to get it fixed as rapidly as possible.

With this fact in mind, here are five common problems associated with home air conditioners that can be checked ahead of time and, thus, allow you and your family to enjoy a safe, comfortable and cool summer.

Malfunctioning Thermostat 
The thermostat is the brains of your AC system. It senses when it is too warm and regulates the functioning of the rest of the system to keep the house at the desired temperature. A faulty one is easily diagnosed and affordably fixed. A new thermostat may even cut your electric bills.

Low Refrigerant Level or Leak 
The refrigerant in your system transports the cooled liquid from the condenser to the tubes in the air blower. This level can become too low from natural evaporation or from a leak. In either case, your home air conditioner will not work efficiently if at all. Refrigerant levels should be checked and adjusted at the beginning of every summer season.

Faulty Blower Motor 
The blower motor forces the warm air across a series of chilled tubes and then into the rest of the house. It is obvious when it is not working as no air will be felt at any of the vents.

Inadequate Ventilation or Damaged Condenser 
The condenser is the part of the appliance that sits outside your home. It is here that air is funneled across the hot coils to eliminate the heat generated by the condensing process. An adequate supply of unhindered fresh air will allow the condenser to more efficiently and affordably do its job. Be sure to remove any debris covering the unit and to clean the condenser blades at least once a year.

Crimped or Blocked Vents 
Often overlooked, the internal vents are also an integral part of home air conditioners. While most homeowners recognize that the outflow vents should be unimpeded, it is also important to not block the main air intake vent. This vent is usually located in the center of the house near the thermostat. Be sure it has no furniture or plants blocking the air flow into it.