An air conditioner is essential for beating the summer heat. With all that use, though, it’s easy for them to malfunction. After asking the experts, we’ve identified the most common AC problems and how to fix them.
4 Common Air Conditioner Repair Problems
If you’re concerned about needing air conditioner repair, the sooner you spot the problem, the better. Here are some of the most common air conditioner repair problems.
1. AC Unit Won’t Turn Off
While we may want it on all the time, the unit still needs to be turned off periodically. This helps protect vital components from wearing out and reduces your energy bills.
However, what should you do if your unit won’t turn off? It’s a more common problem than you’d think and could have multiple causes. It could be an issue with the thermostat, compressor, air filter, or electrical parts.
If turning off the thermostat fan doesn’t shut off the air conditioner, contact a professional for an inspection.
2. AC Unit Won’t Turn On
On the flip side of the previous problem, a problem unit may not be activating when most needed. This could be an issue with the circuit breaker, a faulty thermostat, or loose wiring. With any electrical dysfunction like this, it’s best to have trained certified experts examine and fix the problem.
3. No Cool Air
The AC may be running, but the air is either not coming out or not coming out cool. This is most commonly caused by a tripped circuit breaker. However, it could also be an issue with the blower belt or refrigerant levels.
Either way, this problem is best solved with a systems tune-up and regular maintenance from a licensed professional.
4. No Hot Air
The last thing you want on a hot day is an AC unit blowing more hot air. A unit doing this may have a dirty air filter or an obstruction in the ducts, like debris causing overheating. It’s also possible refrigerant levels are low.
Air filters should be replaced every month or two, and duct cleanings should be scheduled at least once a year. Before adding any refrigerant, always have a professional check for leaks to avoid waste.
4 More Common Problems Seen by Pilgrim Plumbing, Inc.
Whether it’s near the South Shore or elsewhere, Pilgrim Plumbing, Inc. sees a few common recurring problems. We asked some of the experts, and here are some more problems they commonly encountered.
5. Leaking Water or Refrigerant
Some moisture around the unit is natural, but excessive amounts can be a sign of a leak. These are caused by degraded lines and connections in the system, as well as blocked drainage pipes or faulty condensate pumps.
If you notice leaking refrigerant, turn off the unit and call a professional ASAP. Low levels can severely damage the compressor, leading to expensive repairs.
6. AC System Freezing
An AC unit that ices over, especially around the coil or copper line set, is working too hard to cool your home. Most often, this is caused by dirty air filters or condenser units that can lead to expensive energy bills. An expert will most likely check the blower fan, ducts, and condenser for obstructions if this is happening.
7. Repeated Circuit Breaker Trips
Sometimes, a home’s power grid can be overwhelmed by an AC unit’s demands, leading to tripping the circuit breaker regularly. If the circuit breaker or wiring isn’t rated for the unit’s output, this problem could happen frequently. An in-depth inspection may be required, as well as a more energy-efficient unit installed.
8. Strange Smells and Weird Noises
In the simplest terms, an AC unit making sounds or smells it shouldn’t have has other problems going on inside. Depending on the smell, it could be a sign of electrical damage, mildew, or blocked air filters. Sounds like squealing, grinding, or strange vibrations could be signs of misalignments or other internal mechanical issues.
If you smell burning, turn off the AC unit immediately and check the air filters. If they look dirty, replace them before using them again. Likewise, if you hear any grinding noises, turn off the unit to avoid further damaging the internal machinery.
Get Your AC Problem Solved with Pilgrim Plumbing & Heating
Now you know what the most common air conditioner problems are and what needs to be done to solve them. Don’t swelter in the summer heat a second longer than you need to; call on support from the experts.
Serving Plymouth, Weymouth, and the South Shore area, Pilgrim Plumbing & Heating is here to solve your AC problems. AC repair from Pilgrim includes support for a range of common issues and systems, including ductless air conditioner units. Call to schedule your free inspection and consultation today.
