When summer heat strikes, your air conditioning system becomes a lifeline. But what happens when something goes wrong? Familiarity with common AC issues and how to troubleshoot them can save homeowners from unnecessary discomfort. While some issues can be fixed with a little DIY spirit, others may require professional attention.
AC Won't Turn On
One common issue homeowners face is an AC system that refuses to turn on. This problem may arise for several reasons: a broken thermostat, a tripped circuit breaker, or power supply issues. Start your troubleshooting by checking the thermostat. Ensure it is set to cool and the temperature is lower than the current room temperature. Inspect the circuit breaker for tripped circuits if the unit still doesn’t come to life. If all these are in order, the problem might lie deeper, perhaps in the unit’s wiring or internal components. In such cases, it’s time to contact a professional.
Poor Cooling Performance
When an AC unit is operational but not cooling sufficiently, it can be frustrating and uncomfortably warm. The problem could be as simple as a wrong thermostat setting or an open window allowing warm air. Other easy-to-fix issues could be a dirty air filter obstructing the airflow or a fan set to ‘On’ instead of ‘Auto.’ However, if these troubleshooting tips don’t rectify the problem, the AC unit might have a low refrigerant level or a malfunctioning compressor—situations that require a professional HVAC technician‘s expertise.
Uneven Cooling
Uneven cooling, where certain areas of the home remain warmer than others, is a common issue in larger homes. This could be due to blocked air vents, poor insulation, or problems within the ductwork. Start by checking each room’s vents to ensure they’re open and unblocked. If the problem persists, consider contacting an HVAC professional to inspect your home’s insulation and ductwork.
AC is Leaking Water
If a puddle appears around the AC unit, it’s likely due to a clogged condensate drain line. A wet/dry vacuum can often unclog the line and resolve this issue. However, if water continues to pool around the AC unit, it’s crucial to call in a professional to avoid potential water damage to your home.
AC Making Unusual Noises
Unusual noises emanating from an AC unit—buzzing, rattling, or whistling—can be concerning. These sounds might indicate a loose part, a refrigerant leak, or a failing motor. They could also be due to debris or twigs falling into the outdoor unit. While debris removal can be a DIY task, persistent noises should warrant a call to an HVAC professional.
AC Constantly Running
An air conditioner that is continuously running even when it should have reached the desired temperature is not only a nuisance but can also increase energy bills. Several issues could cause this, including a thermostat set to ‘ON’ instead of ‘AUTO’, a dirty air filter, or leaky ductwork. However, if adjusting the thermostat and changing the air filter do not rectify the issue, it might be time to get a professional in to check for leaks in the ductwork or an issue with the unit’s sizing.
AC Blowing Warm Air
If the air conditioner is blowing warm air, the first thing to check is the thermostat settings. If set correctly, the issue could be a dirty air filter blocking the airflow or low refrigerant levels. If changing the air filter doesn’t solve the problem, a professional HVAC technician should be contacted to check the refrigerant and compressor levels.
Unpleasant Smells from the AC
Unpleasant smells emanating from your AC can turn your comfortable home environment into unpleasant. Different smells can indicate different problems. A musty smell could indicate mold or mildew in your AC system or ductwork, whereas a burning smell could indicate overheating parts. A professional HVAC service should be contacted for a thorough inspection and cleaning in both cases.
Frequent Cycling
All AC systems cycle continuously to maintain a set temperature throughout your home. However, if you notice that your AC is turning off and on every few minutes, this could be a sign of a problem, frequent cycling could be a symptom of an oversized AC system or a malfunctioning thermostat. It could also be due to low refrigerant levels or a dirty condenser coil. These are complex issues that a professional should evaluate.
Know When To Fix The Problem And When To Call In The Professionals
Knowledge of common AC issues and their troubleshooting can prove invaluable, particularly during the hot summer. Remember, while DIY troubleshooting can solve some problems, don’t hesitate to call in the professionals when needed. Proper care and timely maintenance are the keys to an efficient, long-lasting air conditioning system.
Is your AC not working as it should, or do you need a regular maintenance check? Contact the skilled and reliable team at Noland Heat and Air. Don’t let AC issues get in the way of your summer comfort. Reach out today!
