You rely on your home’s air conditioning system during the warmer months and expect it to run well every day. And, usually, it will. In fact, AC systems are built to last with the average unit working for up to 15 years without major problems.
That said, it’s normal for minor issues to keep your air conditioner from performing at its best during the summer.
So, what should you watch for? These are a few of the most common AC problems homeowners need to know about and what you can do to fix them once they happen.
Low Airflow
When your air conditioning system turns on, you expect the unit to put out a steady stream of cool air throughout your home. If the system is working well, you’ll be able to feel the cool air getting forced through the vents.
If there’s a problem, the airflow you’ll feel won’t be very strong. This means it will take longer for the space to get cool enough. Over the course of the season, your air conditioner will have to work harder, using more electricity each day.
In most cases, the problem is simple to fix. All you need to do is check the air filters.
Those filters trap contaminants like pollen and dust from getting into your house. Over time, they’ll get so full of dust that air won’t pass through them easily. This causes low airflow in your home when the AC unit turns on.
Replacing your filters should fix the problem. You can do this on your own or let your HVAC technician take care of the repair for you.
AC Systems Not Turning On
You expect your home’s cooling systems to work on their own. But if there’s a problem with the system, the unit may not turn on at all.
Though it’s possible that you have a broken AC on your hands, it’s far more likely that the problem is with your thermostat. Thermostats send signals to your HVAC system to turn on and off based on the temperature inside your home.
When they’re broken or damaged, the HVAC system won’t get the signal.
The best way to assess the damage and make the repairs is to call your cooling and heating systems repair technician. They’ll be able to find the right replacement thermostat for your home and install it the right way the first time.
Rooms Not Cooling Down
One of the most common issues homeowners experience is a lack of even cooling throughout the house. Some rooms may cool down like normal while others stay hot or uncomfortable.
Walk around those rooms and inspect the air vents. There’s a good chance that one or two of those vents got covered or blocked by furniture, toys, and other items.
If you notice any blockages, move them so the air coming out of the vents can travel throughout the room. This should fix the problem once and for all.
If all of your vents are clear, call your HVAC repair expert. They’ll be able to assess your system and find the cause of the uneven cooling.
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Strange Noises
As your system ages, some of the components will start to degrade. Once this happens, you may start hearing strange noises anytime the unit turns on.
If you hear loud rattling, banging, or scraping noises when the fans turn on, call your repair technician immediately. Unfortunately, these issues aren’t things you can fix on your own. You’ll need an experienced professional to identify the cause of the noise and fix the damage.
Whatever you do, don’t ignore those strange noises. The longer they’re allowed to continue, the more potential there is for catastrophic damage to your AC unit. By getting things fixed fast, you’ll keep your system running well for years to come.
Off-Putting Odors
When your system turns on, you shouldn’t smell anything strange, moldy, or musty. But if the unit is breaking or in need of repair, it’s normal to smell something a bit off.
The cause could be due to leaking refrigerant, excess humidity in the ductwork, or motors burning out.
So, what can you do? Turn the system off and call your repair technician. They’ll be able to identify the actual cause and make the right repairs fast.
If you attempt to clean the unit on your own, you risk damaging the system and contributing to future damage.
Warm Air Coming Out of the Vents
Anytime you turn your HVAC system on, you expect it to put comfortably cold air out until the unit turns off. Unfortunately, many homeowners end up dealing with warm air coming out of the vents.
In most cases, that warm air is the direct result of a refrigerant leak in the system. When the air doesn’t get cooled properly because refrigerant levels are low, it won’t cool your home effectively.
Avoid trying to fix the leak on your own. Dealing with refrigerant is hazardous and an experienced technician will be better equipped to make the repairs properly.
Just make sure you let them know what your concerns are. When they have a general understanding of the issues you’re dealing with, they’ll be better prepared to repair the problem faster. That means less downtime and less discomfort in your house.
Watch for These Common AC Problems
AC systems should work reliably anytime you need them. But problems can and will pop up every once in a while.
If you notice any of these common air conditioning problems, call your repair technician immediately. The sooner you do, the better off your home and your cooling system will be.
For more tips and tricks to help you keep your home and appliances working well, check out our latest posts.
