Things are heating up! No, really, they are. We’re getting close to summer, and while everyone is excited to go to the beach, have cookouts, run through the sprinkler, and more, it’s important that your home is a respite from all that heat. Testing out your air conditioning for the first time is always a little nerve-racking, and you’re likely crossing your fingers when you do it. What if you have air conditioner issues? What if your tried-and-true AC troubleshooting tactics don’t work this time around?
Luckily for you, there’s hope even if you do run into air conditioner issues. While we’re happy to help you out and get your system up and running so you can enjoy cool air, you don’t have to give us a call just yet. First, try to identify the problem by checking for one of these culprits—and performing the AC troubleshooting steps associated with them.
Dirty or Clogged Air Filters
The main function of an air conditioner is to, well, condition your air. That means not just regulating temperature, but ensuring the air is clean. The air filter does a lot of heavy lifting in service of this goal: catching dust, dirt, and other airborne particles. Over time, though, the filter can become clogged, making it tough for the system to properly circulate air.
Common problems caused by dirty filters include:
- Low air flow
- Poor cooling performance
- Excessive strain on your system, which could lead to a breakdown
Prevention tips:
- Perform monthly checks on your air filters. During peak seasons, consider increasing that frequency.
- Replace your filters every 1–3 months, depending on the needs of your home.
- If you have pets, significant allergies, or live in a high-dust environment, consider more frequent filter replacements.
Refrigerant Leaks
Without refrigerant, your air conditioner wouldn’t be very effective. That said, it’s not something that should require constant refilling. If you’re experiencing air conditioner issues, check for a refrigerant leak. It’s one of the most common AC problems, and should be addressed by a professional. And be aware that identifying a refrigerant leak isn’t always a matter of spotting a pool of it on the floor. There are other indicators to be aware of.
Signs of a refrigerant leak include:
- Unfavorable cooling performance, even during system operation
- Bubbling or hissing noises emanating from the equipment
- Questionably high energy bills
Prevention tips:
- Schedule yearly HVAC inspections—something easily done through our Comfort Club membership—to keep a pulse on refrigerant levels.
- Address any leaks you come across immediately to avoid them becoming big, expensive problems.
Frozen Evaporator Coils
Evaporator coils are responsible for absorbing the heat from the air in your home. If these vital components freeze, they’ll be unable to fulfill their purpose. As a result, your system as a whole won’t be able to do its job. In fact, it may do the opposite of what you want, blowing warm air into your home on a hot summer day. Gross. The first step in mitigating this issue is knowing the causes and symptoms, so let’s go over them.
Causes and symptoms of frozen coils include:
- Dirty air filters (we told you they’re crucial!) or blocked airflow
- Visible ice or frost on the indoor unit
- Low airflow and uneven/inconsistent cooling
Prevention tips:
- Change your filters regularly (see tips above) to enjoy optimal airflow.
- Make sure none of your vents or registers are blocked by furniture or other obstructions.
- Avoid turning your AC on when outside temperatures dip below 60º fahrenheit.
Thermostat Malfunctions
There are a number of possible issues that could occur within your AC unit, but sometimes, other equipment may be the culprit. One of the most common AC problems that has nothing to do with the main HVAC unit is a malfunctioning thermostat.
Indicators of a thermostat issue include:
- Inconsistent temperatures from room to room
- System running for too long—or not long enough
- Sudden or seemingly random changes to system settings
Prevention tips:
- Regularly check your thermostat settings, especially shortly following a power outage.
- Replace your thermostat’s batteries on a regular basis.
- If you don’t have a smart thermostat, consider upgrading to one for a suite of convenient and important features.
Electrical Issues or Capacitor Failure
As with every large appliance, air conditioners are filled with various electrical components—all of them of similar importance. If any of these parts—the capacitor in particular—fail, the whole system may fail to start or unexpectedly turn off.
Common issues with electrical components include:
- Air conditioning randomly shutting down or outright refusing to start
- Humming, buzzing, or clicking noises emanating from the unit
- Blown fuses or tripped circuit breakers
Prevention tips:
- Schedule an inspection of all your system’s electrical components by a professional—we’re happy to help!
- Keep an ear out for unusual sounds from your system.
- Replace old capacitors and wiring before they cause more expensive damage.
Trust the Experts With Serious Air Conditioner Issues
Summer can provide great outdoor fun, but it can become more than a nuisance if you’re experiencing air conditioner issues. With regular maintenance and early detection, though, you can avoid many of the issues your neighbors may experience if they neglect their systems. Take proactive steps now, save money and sanity later.
If you’re looking for AC services that will keep you cool throughout the hot summer, the trained experts at Holtzople are happy to help you out. Get in touch, and stay cool!