Is your AC acting unusual? Chances are, it’s trying to tell you something.
The warning signs of an air conditioner’s problem can tell a lot about the kind of issue the system is experiencing. Whether it’s weird noises, leaks, freezing up or another problem—it all points to a particular culprit and requires a distinct repair. By recognizing the specific symptoms, it's possible to figure out the potential causes of the problem and determine the best course of action for repairing the AC.
While the symptoms are often unique, many cooling system issues stem from problems that can be avoided by scheduling annual air conditioning maintenance. That’s because a routine Air conditioner maintenance call includes an inspection and cleaning of your system, as well as looking for any parts that may be wearing out and need replacement or to be fixed. This helps locate potential problems before they cause breakdowns or other issues.
Here are some of of the common AC problems and the signals you may see:
Why Is My Air Conditioner Leaking?
A cooling system leaking water can be a common issue. One of the most common causes of an air conditioner leak is a plugged condensate drain line. The condensate drain line is is supposed to take away extra moisture from the air conditioning system. When this line becomes plugged with dirt, dust or mold, water can back up and start to escape.
Another typical reason for water leaking from an air conditioner is a damaged or rusted drip pan, which can permit water to overflow and leak out of the unit. Also, a refrigerant leak or a broken pump might also cause water to leak from an AC unit.
It's necessary to address a leaking air conditioner promptly to reduce the amount of damage to your home and ensure that your air conditioning system is operating efficiently. Professional air conditioner maintenance, including replacing the air filter, checking the condensate drain line and inspecting the unit for damage can help prevent leaks from developing in the future.
Why Is My Air Conditioner Freezing Up?
If your air conditioning is freezing up, it could be due to a variety of reasons. One common cause of a frozen air conditioner is reduced airflow, which can be caused by a blocked air filter, obstructed ductwork or closed vents. This sometimes causes a buildup of cold air in the evaporator coil, causing it to freeze.
Another reason your air conditioner is frozen might be reduced refrigerant levels, which can cause the evaporator coil to become too cold and freeze. Leaking ducts or cracked insulation can also cause the buildup of cold air and cause the evaporator coil to freeze.
To fix a frozen air conditioner, it's important to power down the air conditioner so it can thaw completely. When the system has thawed, examine the air filter, ductwork and refrigerant levels to see if anything is amiss. Regular maintenance, including replacing 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 might be an indication that it needs service. One common cause of a noisy air conditioner is a damaged fan motor or a damaged fan belt. The racket can 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 hinder airflow and cause the system to work harder, resulting in increased noise. In addition, a broken or old compressor can also cause loud noises from the air conditioner.
Why Is My Air Conditioner Not Blowing Cold Air?
One common cause of an AC not producing cold air is a blocked air filter. A dirty air filter restricts airflow, causing the evaporator coil to become very cold and freeze, resulting in a lack of cool air. Another possible source of this issue is a refrigerant leak.
Low refrigerant levels can also cause the evaporator coil to become too cold and freeze, leading to a lack of cool air coming from your air conditioner. In addition, a faulty compressor or motor can also cause the AC not to blow cold air. To rectify this, it's important to check the air filter and exchange it if necessary.
Why Is My Air Conditioner Not Working or Not Turning On?
Your air conditioning system might not start up because of a tripped circuit breaker or blown fuse. To repair this, find the electrical panel and reset any tripped breakers or change any blown fuses.
Another possible cause is a malfunctioning thermostat, which can prevent the air conditioner from switching on. In this case, check the thermostat and replace it, if required. In addition, a problematic compressor, motor or capacitor can keep the air conditioner from turning on. In this case, it's best to contact a professional to inspect and fix the unit.
Why Is My Air Conditioner Making a Weird Noise?
In addition to the problem of air conditioners working louder than they should, occasionally they also make strange noises.
One frequently encountered cause of weird noises is a malfunctioning fan motor or a worn-out fan belt. These two problems can make scraping, squealing or grinding noises. One other possible cause is loose parts such as screws, bolts or bearings.
Furthermore, a dirty air filter can cause your air conditioning to make a noise similar to wheezing or whistling, while a refrigerant leak can produce hissing or bubbling noises.
As with many air conditioner problems, the root cause of odd noises is often something that can be reduced by regular air conditioning maintenance.
Call the Trusted AC Experts at Pepper AC & Heat
If your cooling system is having issues, reach out to the professionals at Pepper AC & Heat for quality air conditioning repair in Justin. Whether it’s a peculiar noise, a leak or another concern, our skilled specialists can get your unit back up and running fast!
If your AC has a continual issue and requires constant or very expensive repairs to keep it going, it may be more cost-effective in the long run to replace your aging AC rather than constantly pay pay for service calls. If you need air conditioning installation in Justin, the first-rate crew at Pepper AC & Heat can help guide you through the process.
