Last Updated on February 15, 2024 by Ali Hamza
Air conditioner issues can occur unexpectedly, especially when the weather is too unfavorable for comfortability. And like many appliances, minor problems can make your A/C less efficient since it fails to provide optimal performance. On the other hand, various major issues might prevent the air conditioner from turning on.
So, you need to know the issues you might face when the A/C isn’t working correctly and how you can restore its system. Here are five significant problems and troubleshooting tips to fix your air conditioner for satisfactory performance.
Your Air Conditioner has Poor Airflow
Many issues can cause poor airflow in your A/C, such as dirty filters or a blocked flex duct. The ducts are vital since they carry cooled air through the system. And when they are blocked or have a tear, the air escapes along the walls, causing poor air circulation. As a result, some parts of your home will feel warmer than others due to your A/C inefficiency. So, if such a problem is left untreated, you might cause significant problems to your air conditioning, making it completely inefficient.
You can save your conditioner by checking whether the air filter has any dirt. Clean it periodically or replace it if it’s beyond salvation. Next, check the ductwork for any blockage or tear that might cause airflow loss and ensure it is well connected. And if damaged, you can fix it by resealing the tears to ensure the cold air is not seeping through the walls.
The A/C Won’t Turn On
One of the common problems most people face when dealing with air conditioners is that sometimes it might fail to turn on. It might be frustrating, especially if you want to take a rest after a long day’s work. Such problems can be caused by several factors like a brown circuit breaker, loose wiring, thermostat problems, or the internal switch being turned off. You can try several solutions to ensure your A/C is working perfectly. They include:
Check all the system switches, including the internal and external controls, ensuring they are all open.
Ensure the condenser is perfectly running
Check if the fuse or circuit breaker is in perfect condition and replace it when damaged
Check your air conditioner thermostat to make sure it is set correctly
Empty the condensate overflow tray, which collects the excess water
Ensure the A/C is connected to the primary source of power
Securely shut the blower door on your Air Conditioner
The Air Conditioner is on, But it is not Working
If your Air Conditioner is on but is not working, your system has a problem. One of the possible causes is that the refrigerant levels might be low, which causes the evaporator coil to become frosty. This prevents the unit from getting rid of humidity and air heat. Further, dirt or debris can block the free circulation of air, affecting registers, filters, and compressors.
Here are several solutions that you can try to ensure your Air Conditioner is working perfectly;
Ensure your A/C thermostat is working
Check the condenser or any blockage that might affect it
Remove the filter and ensure there is no dirt
Thaw any ice that might have formed on the evaporator coils
Call a professional HVAC if your Air Conditioner isn’t working after these troubles shooting tips
Noisy Air Conditioner
In normal conditions, an air conditioner produces a whirring sound, but when it turns to a squeaking, vibrating, or shrieking noise. It is an indication that something might be wrong with your A/c. Several things can cause disrupting sounds, like a dirty fan motor blowing air to the evaporator to cool it. The fan collects debris and dirt over its working time, preventing the smooth flow of air and making the system noisy.
In addition, fan motors could have worn-out belts and deteriorating bearings that affect the free rotation of a fan. This causes the squeaking sound that, if left unattended, can be catastrophic to you as a homeowner. Therefore, it is best to call an HVAC technician from a reputable company to ensure your air conditioner is working perfectly by removing dirt from the fan and replacing the bearings.
Your Air Conditioner Is Leaking
Air conditioners take in warm air and pass it through the evaporator coils while removing the humidity in the air. The moisture condenses and is collected in a pan, which drips when it overflows. Also, the drain might be blocked, causing the water to flow back to the A/C, thus preventing it from working correctly.
So, it is crucial to ensure proper air circulation by ensuring no blockage ensures the ice doesn’t melt. Check the filters and duct tape for any obstruction that might freeze the moisture. Turn your system off to defrost the ice and flush the A/c using compressed air.
How can I fix my air conditioner myself?
Fixing an air conditioner yourself can save you time and money. However, it is important to remember that some repairs may require professional assistance. Before you begin, ensure that you have the proper tools and understand the inner workings of your air conditioner.
One common issue with air conditioners is a dirty air filter. To fix this, locate the filter and remove any debris. If the filter is too dirty, replace it with a new one. Another issue that can be resolved by cleaning is a clogged condenser unit. Turn off the power and clean the exterior with a hose.
If your air conditioner is not cooling properly, the issue may be with the refrigerant levels. Check the levels and add more if necessary. Another issue could be a faulty compressor, which may require professional assistance.
If you hear unusual noises from your air conditioner, turn it off immediately. These sounds may indicate a loose belt or a failing motor. In these cases, it is best to seek professional help to prevent further damage.
Conclusion
With that said, it is essential to know several troubleshooting tips in case your Air Conditioner isn’t working correctly. These five common problems and possible solutions will help you solve minor issues before reaching out to a professional HVAC technician.
Read More: Hiring An Air Conditioner Repair Company
