Is your AC acting weird? There's a good chance it’s trying to tell you something.
The warning signs of an air conditioner’s problem can tell a lot about the type of issue the system is afflicted with. Whether it’s odd noises, leaks, freezing up or another problem—it all points to a particular culprit and requires a unique fix. By recognizing the specific symptoms, it's possible to narrow down the potential causes of the problem and determine the best course of action for repairing the unit.
While the symptoms are often distinct, many cooling system issues stem from problems that can be avoided by scheduling annual air conditioning maintenance. That’s because a routine AC maintenance call includes an inspection and cleaning of your system, as well as locating any parts that may be wearing out and need replacement or repair. This helps find potential problems before they cause breakdowns or other issues.
Here are some of the typical AC problems and the indications you may see:
Why Is My Air Conditioner Leaking?
A cooling system leaking water can be a frequent issue. One of the most common causes of an air conditioner leak is a clogged condensate drain line. The condensate drain line is designed to remove unwanted moisture from the air conditioning system. When this line becomes slow or stopped up with dirt, dust or mold, water can back up and start to come out of the unit.
Another typical reason for water leaking from an air conditioner is a broken or rusted drip pan, which can permit water to overflow and leak out of the unit. In addition, a refrigerant leak or a broken pump can also cause water to leak from an AC unit.
It's necessary to address a leaking air conditioner right away to avoid damage to your home and ensure that your air conditioning system is operating efficiently. Professional air conditioner maintenance, including changing the air filter, examining the condensate drain line and inspecting the unit for damage can help prevent leaks from happening.
Why Is My Air Conditioner Freezing Up?
If your air conditioner is freezing up, it may be due to a variety of reasons. One frequent cause of a frozen air conditioner is reduced airflow, which can be caused by a plugged air filter, obstructed ductwork or closed vents. This can cause a buildup of cold air in the evaporator coil, causing it to freeze.
An additional reason your air conditioner is frozen might be low refrigerant levels, which can cause the evaporator coil to become too cold and freeze. Leaking ducts or compromised insulation can also lead to the buildup of cold air and cause the evaporator coil to freeze.
To fix a frozen air conditioner, it's important to switch off the air conditioner so it can thaw completely. Once the system has thawed, check the air filter, ductwork and refrigerant levels to see if anything is malfunctioning. Regular maintenance, including exchanging the air filter and having the system inspected annually by a professional.
Why Is My Air Conditioner So Loud?
If your air conditioner is making loud noises, it may be a sign that your AC needs service. One frequent cause of a loud air conditioner is a broken fan motor or a worn-out fan belt. The racket could also be a sign the equipment has loose parts such as screws, bolts or bearings, which can cause vibrations and rattling sounds.
A noisy air conditioner also might have a dirty condenser coil, which can block airflow and cause the system to work harder, resulting in more noise. Additionally, a damaged or old compressor can also be a reason you hear loud noises from the air conditioner.
Why Won'y My Air Conditioning Blow Cold Air?
One common cause of an AC not producing cold air is a clogged air filter. A dirty air filter can significantly slow airflow, causing the evaporator coil to become very cold and freeze, resulting in insufficient cool air. Another possible cause is a refrigerant leak.
Low refrigerant levels may also cause the evaporator coil to become too cold and freeze, resulting in a lack of cool air coming from your AC. In addition, a faulty compressor or motor can also cause the AC not to blow cold air. To fix the issue, it's important to examine the air filter and change it if necessary.
Why Can't My Air Conditioner Run or Even Turn On?
Your air conditioning system might not turn on because of a tripped circuit breaker or blown fuse. To fix this, check the electrical panel and reset any tripped breakers or switch out any blown fuses.
The cause also could be a malfunctioning thermostat, which can keep the air conditioner from starting. In that case, check the thermostat and substitute it with a new one, if needed. In addition, a malfunctioning compressor, motor or capacitor can prevent the air conditioner from turning on. If that's the situation, it's best to get in touch with a professional to inspect and fix the unit.
Should My Air Conditioner Be Making a Loud Noise?
In addition to the problem of air conditioners running louder than they are supposed to, at times they also make peculiar noises.
One common cause of weird noises is a deteriorating fan motor or a worn-out fan belt. These two problems can make scraping, squealing or grinding noises. Yet another potential cause is loose parts such as screws, bolts or bearings.
Additionally, a dirty air filter can cause an AC to make whistling or wheezing noises, while a refrigerant leak can produce hissing or bubbling noises.
As with many air conditioner woes, the root cause of uncommon noises is often something that can be reduced by regular air conditioning maintenance.
Call the Trusted AC Experts at Arizona Comfort Systems
If your air conditioning equipment is having problems, call the professionals at Arizona Comfort Systems for quality air conditioning repair in Sierra Vista. Whether it’s a bizarre noise, a leak or another issue, our skilled team members can get your unit back up and running fast!
If your AC has a chronic issue and requires repeated or very expensive repairs to keep it going, it may be more beneficial to replace your aging AC rather than constantly pay for repairs. If your home needs air conditioning installation in Sierra Vista, the first-rate crew at Arizona Comfort Systems can help guide you through the process.