When the summer heat is on, the last thing you want is your air conditioner to stop working. High temperatures make a working AC not only a luxury but a must to be comfortable and healthy. Unfortunately, residential air conditioners sometimes experience problems that leave their homeowners hot under the collar. In this article, we will explore the top five common residential AC issues and offer some simple HVAC troubleshooting tips to help you stay cool and comfortable. These issues will also enable you to make informed decisions when it comes to maintenance and repairs.
One of the most common complaints homeowners have is a lack of cold air blowing from their air conditioner. However, this problem can occur for a variety of reasons, each of which has a different solution. The feeling of an under-cooled home can interfere with everyday life and result in irritation. In order to restore comfort to your home and keep your AC system operating at its best, it’s important to first diagnose the problem.
Causes and Solutions
Thermostat Settings: Before reaching for the worst case scenario, check your thermostat settings. Make sure it is cool and set to a lower temperature than the room temperature. Sometimes, a work setting change could be the reason you are worrying about something that isn’t that profound. To check if your thermostat is working properly, try adjusting the settings and see if there is any improvement in your AC’s performance.
Clogged Air Filter: A dirty air filter will limit airflow and make it harder for your AC to cool your home. Changing or cleaning the filter is often the solution to this problem. Replacing your air filter every 1 to 3 months will help you avoid this problem. Doing so also helps improve the air quality and extend the life of your HVAC system.
Refrigerant Leak: If your refrigerant is at an improper level, your AC won’t chill efficiently. This generally means that there is a leak that requires professional air conditioner repairs. Refrigerant is necessary for the refrigeration reaction and its levels will be checked during normal maintenance. If you think there is a leak, it is important to take prompt action to prevent further damage to the system.
Dirty Evaporator Coil: A dirty evaporator coil is unable to absorb heat efficiently, which in turn results in improper cooling. The situation can be improved by a coil cleaning. Finally, it is important to maintain the evaporator coil by checking and cleaning it regularly to ensure it is functioning effectively. A clean coil will provide the most cooling and least energy use.
That’s why HVAC pros make it a priority to get those foundational problems right early in the process before they become a bigger system failure. According to experts at Cool-Aid Co., a trusted provider of air conditioning repair Philadelphia, Most cooling inefficiencies are the result of neglected maintenance tasks such as filters that are clogged, thermostat setting, and dirty evaporator coils to name a few. Not only does this help to maintain peak performance, but it also helps to prolong the life of your AC unit, preventing homeowners from incurring expensive repairs over time.
AC Unit Starts and Stops Frequently
If your AC keeps tripping on and off very quickly it’s called short cycling. This can not only impact the comfort of your home, but can also result in higher energy bills and increased wear on your system. Short cycling is not efficient and can cause premature failure of your air conditioning unit from all the starting and stopping.
Causes and Solutions
Incorrect Thermostat Placement If the thermostat is located near a heat source, such as a window with direct sunlight, it can cause short cycling. Uninstall thermostat and move to a better location The thermostat should be installed in the right location to provide an accurate reading and to maintain efficient AC operation. Consider getting some advice from an HVAC professional to figure out the optimal location for your thermostat.
Oversized AC Unit: An air conditioner that is too big for your home will cool it down fast but fail to run long enough to properly dehumidify the air. Have an HVAC professional check the size of your unit. The right size AC unit will run more efficiently, providing a consistent level of comfort while reducing energy costs. A load calculation can help you figure out the proper size for your home.
Low Refrigerant Levels: While cooling issues are one reason for short cycling, low refrigerant can also lead to this. An expert will have to find and repair any leaks. Proper monitoring of refrigerant levels can help you avoid this problem from getting worse. Keeping the refrigerant levels in check is crucial for ensuring that your AC system operates efficiently and enjoys a long lifespan.
Water Leaking from AC Unit
There are a few problems that may cause your air conditioner to leak water. Not only will this cause water damage, but it can also be a sign of a faulty unit. Water damage can cause structural damage and mold growth, which can be dangerous to the health of the occupants.
Causes and Solutions
Clogged Drain Line: The condensate drain line can become clogged with dirt and debris, leading to water backing up and leaking. Resetting the line can help to solve the problem. As part of regular maintenance, it’s important to check and clean the drain line regularly to prevent clogs. Many of these issues are straightforward and can be fixed with some basic DIY repairs, but if the problem continues to occur, seeking professional help might be necessary.
Broken Condensate Pump: If your AC unit is in the basement, it may use a condensate pump to get rid of the water. If the pump is broken then it will need to be repaired or replaced. Having the pump’s function checked on a regular basis can help to avoid sudden water damage. Getting advice from an HVAC service company is the best way to ensure proper pump operation and timely repairs.
Frozen Evaporator Coil: The frozen coil can cause the water to overflow from the drain pan. This may be caused by low refrigerant or poor airflow. It is also important to identify and treat the underlying problem to prevent further damage. Routine inspections can identify and rectify these problems before they become major problems.
Strange Noises from AC Unit
Unusual noises emanating from your air conditioner can be distressing and usually point to something wrong that needs dealing with. If you neglect these noises, they can result in more serious damage and expensive repairs.
Causes and Solutions
Loose Parts: Rattling or banging noises may suggest that loose parts are present within the unit. Turn off the AC and look for anything that may have become loose. Regular maintenance inspections can help you detect and secure loose parts before they become a significant problem. Maintenance log can also be used to determine any recurring issues.
Debris in the Fan: If you hear a buzzing or humming sound, it could indicate that there is debris clogging the outdoor fan. Remove debris from fan blades. Keeping the area around your outdoor unit clean and free of debris can help to minimize these issues. Regular checks of the outdoor unit can help to ensure that it is operating efficiently and that it has a long lifespan.
Worn Out Bearings: Grinding noise can be a sign of worn out bearings in the motor. This will often need to be professionally repaired or replaced. Motor lubrication and care can be taken to avoid premature wear. Consulting with an HVAC professional can provide insights into proper maintenance schedules.
AC Unit Not Turning On
If your air conditioner doesn’t turn on at all, it could be because of a number of things. This can be very frustrating in a heatwave, so let’s take a look at some frequent causes. Understanding these issues will help you get back to comfort quickly and prevent months of discomfort.
Causes and Solutions
Tripped Circuit Breaker: Look at your electrical panel to see if the circuit breaker for the AC unit has tripped. A reset can help to fix this. Regular maintenance of your electrical system will help ensure you have no unplanned outages. If the breaker keeps tripping, it could be a sign of a more serious electrical problem that needs to be addressed by a professional.
Blown Fuse: You can’t get the AC to turn on when there is a blown fuse on the disconnect box outside your home. Then change the fuse to turn the power back on. That is why constant inspection of the disconnect box is recommended to make sure all the components are working properly. If you have no idea how to do electrical work, it’s best to call in a professional for help.
Faulty Thermostat: If the thermostat is faulty, it will not be able to send signals to the AC to start. Replace the batteries or thermostat itself. By regularly inspecting and maintaining your thermostat, you can avoid any unexpected breakdowns. Installing a programmable or smart thermostat can also make your system more effective and convenient.
Conclusion
Residential air conditioners can suffer from various problems that can interfere with their function. By understanding these common issues and knowing some basic HVAC troubleshooting tips, you can address minor issues on your own and know when it’s time to call in a professional for air conditioner repairs. By maintaining your HVAC system regularly and addressing potential issues promptly, you can save on expensive repairs and the inconvenience of dealing with a malfunction during the busy summer months.
Regular maintenance, including changing air filters and scheduling annual inspections, can help to prevent many of these problems from occurring in the first place. By taking proactive steps, you can help ensure your AC unit keeps you cool and comfortable throughout the summer season. In addition, investing in regular maintenance means that the energy efficiency increases and your unit lasts longer, which ultimately saves you money in the long run.
And although some problems can be solved with DIY fixes, others need the professional help of an HVAC technician. If you are unsure about any part of your air conditioner’s performance, do not hesitate to call in a professional for help. A reliable technician can help you achieve peace of mind and ensure that your system runs safely and efficiently.