The sweet relief of cool air on a sweltering day is one of life’s great comforts. But what happens when the trusty AC unit decides to take an untimely break? Understanding how to troubleshoot common AC issues can help homeowners restore their home’s comfort. Here’s a handy guide to diagnosing and possibly remedying common AC issues and knowing when to call in the professionals.
1. The AC Won't Turn On
Symptoms
The thermostat is set correctly, but the AC unit remains silent and still.
DIY Tips
Start with the basics. Ensure the thermostat is set to ‘cool’ and the temperature setting is lower than the current room temperature. Check the unit’s power supply, ensuring it’s plugged in. Also, examine the circuit breaker. If the circuit for the AC has tripped, reset it.
Time to Call a Professional
If these steps don’t solve the problem, it could be a more serious electrical issue or a faulty thermostat requiring professional attention.
2. The AC Isn't Cooling Properly
Symptoms
The AC is running, but the air isn’t as cool as expected, or the system can’t keep up with the heat.
DIY Tips
Check the thermostat setting first. If that’s not the issue, examine the air filter. A dirty filter can significantly reduce the AC’s cooling capacity. If the filter is dirty, replacing it might help. Also, inspect the outdoor unit. Clear any debris that might be blocking airflow.
Time to Call a Professional
If cleaning or replacing the filter and clearing the outdoor unit doesn’t improve cooling, there could be an issue with the refrigerant level or the compressor, necessitating a professional’s expertise.
3. The AC is Leaking Water
Symptoms
There’s water pooling around the indoor unit.
DIY Tips
This is often due to a clogged condensate drain line. Homeowners can try using a wet/dry vacuum to clear the clog. Also, check the air filter. A very dirty filter can block airflow over the evaporator coil, causing it to freeze and melt, resulting in water leakage.
Time to Call a Professional
If cleaning the drain line and replacing the filter doesn’t stop the leakage, it’s time to bring in a professional to diagnose and fix the problem.
4. The AC is Making Strange Noises
Symptoms
The AC produces unusual noises, such as grinding, squealing, or banging.
DIY Tips
Some noises can be caused by debris in the outdoor unit. If it’s safe, homeowners can try removing any visible debris. A squealing noise might indicate a belt issue, which some handy homeowners might feel comfortable replacing.
Time to Call a Professional
If the noise persists after cleaning the outdoor unit or if the homeowner isn’t comfortable replacing parts, it’s wise to call a professional. Ignoring these noises can lead to more serious and costly damage.
5. The AC is Cycling On and Off Too Frequently
Symptoms
The AC constantly turns on and off, even on moderate temperature days.
DIY Tips
A common cause of this is a dirty air filter, restricting airflow and causing the system to overwork. Replace the filter if it’s dirty. Cleaning around the outdoor unit might also help, as blocked airflow can cause the system to cycle too frequently.
Time to Call a Professional
If these steps don’t resolve the issue, the problem could be a faulty thermostat, improper refrigerant level, or an AC unit not the right size for the home, requiring professional assistance.
6. The AC Is Blowing Hot Air
Symptoms
The AC blows warm or hot air instead of refreshing, cool air.
DIY Tips
First, ensure the thermostat is correctly set to “cool” mode. If that’s not the problem, inspect the air filter. A dirty air filter can impede airflow, causing the AC to struggle and produce warm air. Lastly, examine the outdoor unit for any blockages or debris affecting its efficiency.
Time to Call a Professional
If these steps don’t resolve the issue, the AC could be low on refrigerant, have a broken compressor, or have a duct leakage. All these problems need a professional’s touch.
7. The AC Unit Is Vibrating or Shaking
Symptoms
The outdoor unit vibrates or shakes when running.
DIY Tips
Minor vibration is normal, but excessive shaking can indicate a problem. If safe to do so, homeowners can check to see if the unit is securely fastened and that all screws are tightened.
Time to Call a Professional
If the unit is still shaking after checking the mounting, it could be due to an internal component problem, such as the motor or fan blades. In such a case, a professional should inspect the unit.
8. The AC Has a Foul Smell
Symptoms
The AC emits a musty or burning smell when running.
DIY Tips
A musty smell can indicate mold or mildew in the system, likely in the ductwork. Homeowners can replace the air filter and use a mold and mildew cleaner at the indoor vents. A burning smell might indicate an electrical problem. If this is the case, switch off the AC at the circuit breaker immediately.
Time to Call a Professional
If the musty smell persists after cleaning or if a burning smell is detected, it’s time to call a professional. Mold and mildew can significantly affect indoor air quality and health, and an electrical issue can be a fire hazard.
Keeping Cool – Know When to Call in the Pros
While it’s helpful to know how to troubleshoot common AC problems, some issues should be left to professionals to avoid damaging the system further or risking personal safety. A professional can accurately diagnose and fix the problem, restore the home’s comfort, and help prevent future issues.
The AM Heat Cool team is always ready to assist when AC issues arise. They provide prompt, reliable service and excellent customer service. So, if an AC problem persists or homeowners aren’t comfortable diagnosing or fixing an issue, don’t hesitate. Call the professionals at AM Heat Cool – they’re here to ensure a cool, comfortable home, no matter what the thermometer says outside!
