Is your air conditioning acting strange? There's a good chance it’s trying to tell you something.
The symptoms of an air conditioner’s problem can tell a lot about the kind of issue the system is suffering from. Whether it’s odd noises, leaks, freezing up or another problem—it all points to a particular culprit and requires a specific fix. By identifying the specific symptoms, you can narrow down the potential causes of the problem and determine the best course of action for repairing the AC.
While the symptoms are often very different, many cooling system issues stem from problems that can be avoided by scheduling regular air conditioning maintenance. That’s because a routine AC maintenance call includes an inspection and cleaning of your system, as well as locating any parts that may be wearing out and need replacement or service. This helps uncover potential problems before they cause breakdowns or other issues.
Here are some of of the typical AC problems and the signs you may see:
Why Is My Air Conditioner Leaking?
A cooling system leaking water can be a widespread issue. One of the most common causes of an air conditioner leak is a plugged condensate drain line. The condensate drain line is designed to remove excess moisture from the air conditioning system. When this line becomes plugged with dirt, dust or mold, water can back up and start to come out of the unit.
Another possible cause of water leaking from an air conditioner is a broken or rusted drip pan, which can allow water to overflow and leak out of the unit. Additionally, a refrigerant leak or a busted pump might also cause water to leak from an AC unit.
It's crucial to address a leaking air conditioner promptly to prevent damage to your home and ensure that your air conditioning system is operating efficiently. Regular air conditioner maintenance, including changing the air filter, examining the condensate drain line and inspecting the unit for damage can help prevent leaks from happening.
Why Is My Air Conditioner Freezing Up?
If your air conditioning is freezing up, it could be because of a variety of reasons. One typical cause of a frozen air conditioner is restricted airflow, which can be caused by a clogged air filter, obstructed ductwork or closed vents. This can cause a buildup of frigid 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 really cold and freeze. Leaking ducts or damaged insulation can also cause the buildup of frosty air and cause the evaporator coil to freeze.
To fix a frozen air conditioner, it's important to power down the air conditioning so it can thaw completely. After the system has thawed, assess the air filter, ductwork and refrigerant levels to see if anything is malfunctioning. Regular maintenance, including changing the air filter and having the system inspected annually by a skilled technician.
Why Is My Air Conditioner So Loud?
If your air conditioner is making loud noises, it could be an indication that it needs service. One prevalent cause of a loud air conditioner is a damaged fan motor or a damaged fan belt. The loudness could also be the result of loose parts such as screws, bolts or bearings, which can cause vibrations and rattling sounds.
A noisy air conditioner also could have a dirty condenser coil, which can block airflow and cause the system to work harder, resulting in greater noise. Additionally, a damaged or old compressor can also be a reason you hear loud noises from the air conditioner.
Why Is My Air Conditioner Not Blowing Cold Air?
One common cause of an AC not blowing cold air is a blocked air filter. A dirty air filter can significantly slow airflow, causing the evaporator coil to become extremely cold and freeze, resulting in not enough cool air. Another possible cause is a refrigerant leak.
Low refrigerant levels may also cause the evaporator coil to become too cold and freeze, resulting in a lack of cool air coming from your air conditioning. Also, a faulty compressor or motor can also cause an air conditioner to not produce cool air. To fix this, it's important to inspect the air filter and exchange it if necessary.
Why Is My Air Conditioner Not Working or Not Turning On?
A home cooling system might not turn on because of a tripped circuit breaker or blown fuse. To fix this, look at the electrical panel and reset any tripped breakers or change any blown fuses.
Another possible cause is a malfunctioning thermostat, which can keep the air conditioner from turning on. If that's the case, check the thermostat and substitute it with a new one, if needed. Additionally, a problematic compressor, motor or capacitor can prevent the air conditioner from turning on. In this case, it's best to contact a professional to inspect and repair the unit.
Why Is My Air Conditioner Making a Weird Noise?
In addition to the problem of air conditioners working louder than they are supposed to, occasionally they also make strange noises.
One common cause of weird noises is a malfunctioning fan motor or a worn-out fan belt. These two issues can make scraping, squealing or grinding noises. Another possible cause is loose parts such as screws, bolts or bearings.
Additionally, a dirty air filter can cause your air conditioning to make a noise similar to wheezing or whistling, while a refrigerant leak can cause hissing or bubbling noises.
As with a lot of air conditioner predicaments, the root cause of odd noises is often something that can be reduced by regular air conditioning maintenance.
Call the Trusted AC Experts at Jack's Heating, Cooling, Stoves & Fireplaces
If your air conditioning equipment is having trouble, reach out to the professionals at Jack's Heating, Cooling, Stoves & Fireplaces for quality air conditioning repair in Alliance. Whether it’s a weird noise, a leak or another concern, our skilled team members can get your unit back up and running fast!
If your AC has a continual issue and requires repeated 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 for repairs. If you need air conditioning installation in Alliance, the top-notch crew at Jack's Heating, Cooling, Stoves & Fireplaces can help guide you through the process.