Common Air Conditioner Problems You May Face This Summer
The scorching summer heat can be intolerable without the assistance of an air conditioning unit. As we approach the warmer months, homeowners must make sure that their cooling systems are dependable. Familiarizing oneself with prevalent air conditioning issues and their corresponding prevention techniques can significantly alleviate stress and enhance overall comfort throughout the season. The following are the most noteworthy air conditioner problems to keep in mind:
Typical Cooling Problems You May Face This Summer
Table of Contents
- 1 Typical Cooling Problems You May Face This Summer
- 1.1 AC Unit Does Not Turn On
- 1.2 Air Conditioner Making Noises
- 1.3 Air Conditioner Outdoor Unit Freezing Up
- 1.4 Air Conditioner Refrigerant Leak
- 1.5 Frozen Evaporator Coil
- 1.6 Air Conditioner Electric Control Failure
- 1.7 AC System Not Blowing Cold Air
- 1.8 Air Conditioner Leaking Water
- 1.9 Air Conditioning Unit Drainage Problem
- 1.10 Cooling System Sensor Problem
- 2 Quick & Easy Steps To Prevent Cooling Problems
- 3 Call Hart Home Comfort For Your Air Conditioning Requirements
AC Unit Does Not Turn On
If the circuit breaker tripped, the air conditioning unit might become unresponsive. Before proceeding with further testing:
- Reset the circuit breaker.
- Make sure the plug is not loose, and re-plug it if needed.
- Replace the thermostat batteries if they are dead.
If the problem continues, contact an HVAC technician for a proper diagnosis and repair.
Air Conditioner Making Noises
Typically, an air conditioning unit produces a consistent low hum, and any unusual sounds should be investigated. Pay close attention to the specific type of noise, as each can signify a distinct issue. Clicking sounds may indicate problems with the relay, while hissing may indicate a leak. Rattling is often linked to issues with the motor assembly, and buzzing is usually associated with electrical faults. HVAC professionals can quickly identify the problem by listening to the air conditioning unit.
Air Conditioner Outdoor Unit Freezing Up
Several factors could be responsible for this situation. The coolant level may have decreased due to a leak, or it could be due to a drop in the outdoor temperature. Other possible culprits include issues with the blower motor or insufficient airflow. Have a technician inspect the unit to determine the root cause.
Air Conditioner Refrigerant Leak
The refrigerant is the critical component that drives the cooling process in an air conditioning system. If it leaks out, the performance and efficiency of the AC unit will be significantly affected. As a result, power consumption will increase, cooling will become uneven, and the coils may freeze. In severe cases, the compressor may sustain damage. To avoid such problems, schedule regular inspections to detect and address potential refrigerant leaks as early as possible.
Frozen Evaporator Coil
It requires a constant flow of air to prevent the evaporator coil from freezing. If this problem arises, inspect the entire pathway for any obstructions. The cause could be a malfunctioning fan, obstructed vents, or dirty air filters. Regular cleaning and maintenance can help avoid this issue altogether.
Air Conditioner Electric Control Failure
For optimal performance, air conditioners function best when operating consistently. Frequent cycling can accelerate wear and tear, primarily in the compressor, but it can also affect the fan motor and blower motor controls. This may result in electric control failure, preventing the affected components from responding.
AC System Not Blowing Cold Air
The primary function of a central air conditioner is to circulate cool air throughout your home. If the unit fails to do so, or if it blows hot air, it may be due to a clogged air filter that impedes the free flow of air through the system. Another possible issue is the condenser freezing, which can significantly decrease the unit’s cooling efficiency. Regular filter replacements can help prevent these AC problems from occurring.
Air Conditioner Leaking Water
On humid days, the coils of an air conditioner can accumulate condensation, which typically flows out of the unit through designated drain channels. However, if these channels become obstructed or damaged, leakage may occur. Common causes of blockages include clogged drain pipes, a broken condensate pan, or improper installation. In such cases, cleaning the unit’s interior can usually resolve the issue immediately.
Air Conditioning Unit Drainage Problem
Inadequate drainage can result in the accumulation of still water within the AC system, creating a favorable environment for the proliferation of harmful microorganisms such as bacteria and fungi. As time passes, these microorganisms can cause unpleasant and unhealthy odors to permeate your home. To prevent the development of bad smells in your unit, have it professionally inspected and maintained.
Cooling System Sensor Problem
The task of detecting the current temperature falls on the thermostat sensors. If a room is excessively warm, the air conditioning system will activate, and conversely, if it’s too chilly, it will turn off. However, inaccurate sensor placement may result in erroneous readings. Skilled technicians can rectify their placement and carry out necessary calibrations to guarantee optimal functioning.
Quick & Easy Steps To Prevent Cooling Problems
Check the HVAC filter
Dirty filters cause many issues, including inefficiency and poor indoor air quality. Always follow the manufacturer’s recommendation and replace your air filters regularly. Typically, replacement is advised every one to three months. However, it is important to monitor the condition of the filters and replace them if they become clogged before the scheduled date. Let the state of the filters guide your decision.
Clean the Air Conditioner Condensing Unit Regularly
The outdoor unit remains continuously exposed to dirt and debris, which can impair its efficiency in transferring heat outside if the coils become dirty. However, cleaning the surfaces periodically can easily rectify this issue. Removing fallen leaves, trash, twigs, and other objects is essential for optimal performance.
Install A Programmable Thermostat
Remove old thermostats and replace them with new ones with better calibration and performance. Get a programmable thermostat if possible. Set the timers to your preferred schedule and temperature. This should improve precision while reducing energy consumption.
Remove Air Conditioner Vent Blockage
It is crucial to keep the vents open at all times to ensure unrestricted airflow. Objects such as curtains, furniture, and other items can sometimes obstruct these vents, resulting in poor ventilation. Monitor these susceptible areas so that you can promptly resolve any issues that may arise.
Conclusion
To avoid cooling systems from failing when they are most needed, take a proactive approach by monitoring and cleaning them regularly. Homeowners should also follow a maintenance schedule to allow professionals to carry out comprehensive inspections and tune-ups. In the event of necessary repairs, seek the services of professional HVAC technicians immediately. They possess the necessary skills and experience to identify the root of the problem and deliver excellent results at reasonable rates.
Call Hart Home Comfort For Your Air Conditioning Requirements
Hart Home Comfort provides exceptional heating and cooling solutions to all towns in Nassau County, Suffolk County, and Queens, New York. Our team is made up of highly qualified and certified technicians who deliver top-notch HVAC tune-ups, repairs, installations, replacements, and more. Our technicians possess the required knowledge and experience to ensure the proper functioning of your HVAC system.
At Hart Home Comfort, we offer the most competitive pricing for heating and cooling services in the region. Our maintenance services are designed to enhance comfort, increase energy efficiency, and reduce cooling costs. If you require an HVAC repair or replacement, we can recommend the best solution to fit your home and budget. We stand behind our work with a satisfaction guarantee to ensure your peace of mind. To schedule a service appointment, contact Hart Home Comfort today, and we’ll provide you with a free, in-home estimate.
For any questions about what Hart Home Comfort can do for you, give us a call today. Click here to contact us now or call us at (631) 667-3200 to find out more! Click the link to view our service area.