The summer months can be unbearable without a well-functioning air conditioning unit. When you don’t have proper cooling, your home can be an uncomfortable and dangerous place. However, an AC unit can sometimes malfunction, causing problems that can compromise its performance. Continue reading to explore common AC unit issues and concerns so that you can recognize them in time and prevent more severe damage and costly repairs.
Clogged Air Filters
Clogged air filters can cause reduced airflow and cooling power in AC units. Air filters keep dirt, dust, and debris out of the system, but over time, they get dirty and clogged, which decreases the efficiency of the AC unit.
If left unattended, clogged air filters may cause more significant damage to the unit. Therefore, cleaning or replacing dirty filters regularly is essential, depending on the manufacturer’s instructions.
Refrigerant Leaks
Refrigerant leaks are another common AC unit problem. Refrigerant is the fluid that absorbs heat inside your house and releases it outside. Without enough refrigerant, your AC unit cannot cool your home.
Leaks to the refrigerant lines can occur for many reasons, including age, wear and tear, and physical damage. If you hear hissing or bubbling sounds and the air from the unit is warm, you may have a refrigerant leak.
Faulty Thermostat
The thermostat is the device that controls the AC unit system. It’s responsible for turning the unit on and off and adjusting the temperature settings. If your AC unit doesn’t feel cool enough, the thermostat may have an issue. Faulty thermostats can be due to dead batteries, a loose connection, or programming errors.
Dirty Condenser Coils
Condenser coils are the part of the AC unit that releases heat into the outside air. Over time, dirt, dust, and debris can accumulate on the coils, causing a significant decrease in the AC unit’s efficiency. If your AC unit isn’t cooling your home efficiently, it may be due to dirty condenser coils. It’s best to have a professional clean the coils, as DIY cleaning can lead to more significant problems.
Faulty or Damaged Fan Motor
The fan motor is responsible for blowing cool air into your home. If the fan motor is faulty or damaged, your AC unit may not be able to circulate the air correctly, causing the unit’s efficiency to decrease. If you notice that your AC unit isn’t blowing air correctly or has a strange humming noise, it may have a faulty or damaged fan motor.
The issue could also be the AC compressor. There are multiple reasons your AC compressor can break down, including age and electrical issues. Ensure you contact a local HVAC technician to accurately address the problem.
Recognizing common AC unit issues and problems can save you time and money. As soon as you notice your unit isn’t cooling your house effectively, you should investigate the possible causes. As discussed in this article, some common problems and issues can cause AC units to malfunction, including clogged air filters, refrigerant leaks, and faulty thermostats. If you suspect any of these problems or other issues, seek help from a professional HVAC technician who can assess and repair the issue.
