Air conditioning will save you from the summer heat. It’s definitely a huge contributor to indoor comfort this time of year. This makes it all the more frustrating when your air conditioning encounters problems.
Many things can go wrong with air conditioning units. You may encounter anything from a small leak that needs to be fixed or a major problem with the blower or compressor. What to do if your air conditioning isn’t working?
Here are some of the issues you might face with your AC and how to deal with them.
1. Air Conditioning Doesn’t Cycle
You probably use your air conditioner often during the hot, sticky summer months. However, you may be surprised that the AC shouldn’t be running all the time.
Air conditioning should cycle through its energy usage as it works to maintain your temperature settings. If you notice that your central air is constantly running, there may be an underlying problem.
The first thing you should do is change/clean your air filter. (It’s always a good idea to try this first; filters should be changed every 30-90 days for the best air conditioner performance.)
If that doesn’t help, talk to an HVAC expert. The problem might just be that your system needs to be cleaned or there’s a refrigerant leak. However, if the issue is caused by an air conditioner that’s too old or too small for your space, a replacement may be the only choice. Thankfully, air conditioner models have become more energy-efficient in recent years.
2. Water Leakage From the Air Conditioning
This is one of the most common issues associated with air conditioners. Water leakage can come from many sources. Some of the most common are:
- Air conditioner drain pan
- Evaporator coil
- Condensate drain line
- fFn motor
Fortunately, these leaks are easily fixed. However, it’s usually not a good idea to do it yourself. Call a professional if you notice a water leak coming from any of these places. These air conditioner issues will only get worse unless they’re addressed right away.
If you attempt to plug the leak, you may cause more damage. If you don’t have the proper equipment to fix the leak, you might not be able to do the job correctly.
3. Loud Noises Coming From the Air Conditioning
Sometimes, air conditioning units make loud noises. One of the most common loud noise complaints is rattling noise. If you hear some loose parts or rusted pipes hitting each other, it’s probably not a big deal. However, if the noise is consistent and louder than a normal clanking sound, you should call a professional.
There are many things that could be causing the noise. One of the most likely culprits is a compressor issue. On older and poorly maintained systems, the compressor may be slipping. This results in loud noises.
Another common air conditioner issue that can cause loud noises is an air conditioner fan motor. This motor is responsible for pushing the air through your house and cooling the air before it goes into your home. If the motor is hitting against the inside of the casing, you’ll hear the loud noise during high airflow periods.
If your air conditioner is making strange noises, it’s probably time to change the filter. If the noise persists, try to identify the source and type of sound, so you can properly describe it to a technician when you call for repairs.
4. Air Conditioning Not Cooling
A properly operating air conditioner should cool your home. If your air conditioner isn’t cooling your home, there’s a problem. There may be a need for a system to be replaced or repaired. However, that’s not always the case. You may just need to make some changes to your home or make some adjustments to the air conditioner itself.
If your air conditioner isn’t cooling:
- Make sure that the thermostat is set to cool
- Check if your home’s windows and doors are opened
- Unblock your vents
- Clean your filter
If your AC unit still isn’t cooling. The problem might be a refrigerant leak, which would require professional help to fix. Alternatively, there might be an issue with the ductwork that’s causing cooled air to escape. Or, worst-case scenario, you might need to replace the AC unit entirely.
5. Air Conditioning Ice Issues
You can have ice buildup on your air conditioner. Ice can form on your air-conditioning coil, and it can be a serious problem that can cause the compressor to break down and the evaporator coil to freeze and crack. These issues need immediate attention to avoid further damage to the system.
There are several things you can do to prevent ice from forming on the air conditioner. First, keep the air-conditioning system properly maintained and in good working order. This can be done by having the system cleaned, inspected, and serviced on a regular basis.
Next, you should turn your air conditioning off when you leave your home for an extended period of time. This prevents the air conditioner from running for hours on end and freezing.
6. Lack of Air Conditioning Maintenance
With proper maintenance, your air conditioning unit can stay in optimal condition. This will allow it to perform at its best for years to come. Here are some of the recommended maintenance tasks to keep your air conditioner running smoothly:
- Have your air conditioner fall check regularly
- Replace your filters regularly
- Clean your coils
- Check your refrigerant levels
Have your air conditioner regularly checked. This involves an HVAC technician inspecting the system and making sure it is running properly. This check should be done twice a year. In addition to checking the system, the technician will also clean your filters, check your refrigerant levels, and make sure your air conditioning unit is in good working condition.
Another important maintenance task is having your filter replaced regularly. Once the filter is dirty, the air conditioner has to work harder to produce cool air. Once the filter becomes too dirty, the air conditioner stops working altogether. Filters should be replaced every month or so.
Conclusion
In the summer, you don’t want to be without air conditioning. It’s too hot outside, and it’s even hotter inside your home. Air conditioning is a crucial part of home comfort and something you should always pay attention to.
If you have an issue with your air conditioner, you’ll want to call a professional immediately. If you wait too long, the problem could get worse and cause more damage. Don’t be afraid to call for help!
Let us provide you with 24-hour AC services that will keep your unit running properly and your home feeling comfortable. Give us a call, and we can schedule your maintenance right away!
