It can be hard to keep your cool when your air conditioner is on the fritz, especially if it happens in the peak of summer. In this article, we’ll go over some of the most common home AC problems and how to prevent, spot and fix them. By addressing issues promptly before more costly repairs are required, you can make sure you stay comfortable even on the hottest days.
1. Low airflow
Are you noticing decreased airflow coming from your AC unit? This is a clear sign that something’s not right. The good news is that you can fix many of the possible causes on your own. Just make sure that your unit is unplugged before you do anything. The most common causes are:
Dirty air filters
Dusty air filters can slow the air flowing into your home. They also force your AC unit to work harder, which can reduce its performance and increase your energy use. If you pull out your filter and find it covered in thick grey dust, it’s time for a cleaning.
Cleaning your filters
Make sure your AC unit is turned off, then remove the filters.
Use a hand-held vacuum to remove most of the dust and dirt.
Then, use a microfibre cloth to wipe off any remaining dust.
Finally, soak your filter in equal parts hot water and vinegar. Let the filter dry completely before reinstalling.
Cleaning your filters regularly helps keep air flowing and maintain air quality.
Dirty evaporator coils
Evaporator coils can get dirty when you run your AC with clogged air filters or no air filters at all. Since the evaporator coils are responsible for cooling and pushing air throughout your home, dirty coils could constrict airflow. If this happens, it’s best to hire a professional to clean the coils.
Leaky, clogged or poorly installed air ducts
Air ducts that are poorly sealed, too small or obstructed can significantly reduce the amount of cold air that reaches your living areas. This is a common problem best handled by a professional, especially if you suspect that air is leaking out or that the ducts were improperly installed.
Fan blades or blower motor are dirty or in poor condition
Dirt buildup on your fan blades or an issue with your fan’s blower motor can contribute to low airflow. These mechanical components wear out over time and may need to be cleaned or replaced for your AC unit to restore proper airflow.
2. The AC isn’t blowing cold air
If you notice warm air coming from your AC unit, it’s a sure sign that something’s not right. There are a number of possible causes. Some are an easy fix, while others need to be handled by a professional.
Check your thermostat. You might just need to adjust your thermostat settings. If your settings are correct, there could be an issue with your thermostat sensor, or it might be time to change your thermostat batteries. Does everything still look normal? It might be the thermostat’s internal sensor or the thermostat itself. In that case, you’ll need to get it repaired or replaced.
Check your condenser unit. The condenser coils are designed to push warm air outdoors. When they’re clogged or dirty, warm air gets trapped and flows back indoors. The clog may just be a buildup of leaves and other debris surrounding your outdoor unit. Removing any buildup can resolve the problem, but if the coils themselves are dirty, it’s best to call a professional.
Low refrigerant levels. Refrigerant is crucial to the cooling process. If there isn’t enough in your AC unit, the evaporator coils can’t absorb the heat properly. If this happens, the unit will blow warm air, or the airflow will be much lower than usual. This issue is usually caused by a leak. If this seems to be the case, have it repaired as quickly as possible.
3. AC not turning on
If your air conditioner doesn’t start, don’t panic. It doesn’t necessarily mean your unit is broken. Before you compare new heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) unit costs, look for the following signs of trouble:
Tripped circuit breaker
A tripped circuit breaker can cut power to the unit. Resetting the breaker can fix the issue right away.
Evaporator or condenser coil issues
Dirty condenser or evaporator coils may prevent the system from working properly. It’s best to have your unit professionally cleaned or serviced.
Clogged drain lines
A blocked drain can trigger a safety shutdown. Clearing the blockage often gets the AC running again.
Emergency switch is set to “off”
The emergency switch on the outdoor unit may have been inadvertently turned off. Make sure the switch is in the “On” position.
Installation issue
If the unit is installed incorrectly (wrong wiring, power supply or size), it may not start up.
Motor failure
If the fan motor is faulty, the unit may not work at all. This type of repair usually requires a certified technician.
Have you checked your unit’s instruction manual? It often offers simple troubleshooting steps that can help you resolve issues right away. If your manual doesn’t help, we can help you find a qualified contractor to assess and repair your air conditioner.
4. Strange noises
An AC unit that’s working properly is never completely silent. Hearing a light whooshing sound or a click when the unit first turns on is normal. But if your AC is making loud or unusual noises, it could signal a mechanical issue or a developing system failure.
Excessive creaking, banging, clanking, rattling or hissing are all common signs that your AC isn’t working properly. Your unit may have a loose part, a misaligned fan, a dirty motor or another mechanical issue that requires professional attention.
If you notice a burning smell, your unit may be overheating or have an electrical issue. Turn off your AC immediately and contact a specialist. If your AC is poorly maintained or damaged, you’re more likely to have to deal with overheating or an internal breakdown.
5. Refrigerant leak
Refrigerant, sometimes called freon or coolant, is an essential aspect of any air conditioning system. The refrigerant absorbs the heat from the air in your home, with help from the compressor and the condenser/evaporator coils.
A refrigerant leak can make your AC less efficient and may prevent it from adequately cooling the air. It can also lead to reduced airflow, higher energy bills and other performance issues. Keep an eye out for these telltale signs of a refrigerant leak:
AC is running longer cycles than usual
Evaporator coils are freezing
Indoor temperature is warm even when the AC is running
AC has a water leak
Bubbling or gurgling water sounds
Strong refrigerant smell (acrid or chemical)
Refrigerant leaks aren’t just bad for your AC system. They can harm the environment and your health too.
What to do if you suspect a leak
1. Turn off your AC immediately.
2. Don’t touch the coils or ducts
3. A specialist will be able to confirm if you have a leak and repair and recharge the system according to current standards.
6. Too much dust
Air conditioners rely on clean and clear airways to push cool air throughout your home. Dirty filters or ducts can reduce airflow, force your AC unit to work harder and increase your energy use. Remember to regularly change your air filters and clean your AC ducts to maximize your system’s efficiency.
Frequent duct cleaning helps to control airflow obstruction and maintain constant airflow, resulting in improved indoor comfort and longer system life... in most cases!
Risks of defective air conditioning
Generally, regular maintenance helps preserve your AC’s performance. But ignoring problems with your AC unit can have serious impacts on your health and your energy bill.
Breathing problems
A fully functional HVAC unit helps clear pollutants from the air. But dirty filters can quickly become breeding grounds for bacteria, mould and allergens. This puts your family at greater risk of coughs, sore throats, asthma attacks and other respiratory issues. More serious health concerns can also occur when a refrigerant leak is left too long.
Allergies
A poorly maintained AC unit cannot effectively filter pollen, dust or pet dander, so it ends up circulating them through the air in your home. Buildup of mould and bacteria on filters and in ducts can also trigger allergic reactions or exacerbate existing symptoms such as nosebleeds, itchiness or nasal congestion.
Regularly clean your home and air conditioner to help make sure the air you breathe is as healthy as possible. Using an air purifier can also help, as it reduces the presence of airborne particles.
Higher costs
Although the cost of repairing an air conditioner may seem daunting at first, in the long run, it will be less expensive than the consequences of not maintaining your unit. Generally speaking, regular maintenance helps keep your air conditioning system running smoothly, reduces the risk of breakdowns and makes sure you’re breathing clean air in your home.
On the other hand, not maintaining your AC unit properly can have serious impacts on your health and your energy bill. When an air conditioner operates with dirty, worn or faulty parts, it has to work much harder to cool the air in your home to the same temperature. This overload can lead to higher energy use, which means more expensive electricity bills.
Call on specialized contractors
Taking good care of your HVAC system can help keep your home comfortable. While some repairs are simple DIY jobs, others require professional help.
And that’s where RenoAssistance comes in. We can recommend qualified specialists from our network of HVAC contractors.
Contact us and get up to three free, no-obligation quotes to repair or replace your air conditioner.
