An air conditioning system is essential to keeping your home cool when the weather is sweltering outside. However, like all mechanical systems, air conditioning systems can occasionally develop problems that disrupt their ability to cool your home. Understanding common AC issues will make it easier to identify them when they occur. You’ll be able to spot minor problems you can tackle on your own or recognize major issues and know when to call in the pros.
Types of Air Conditioners
Several types of air conditioners are currently available for home use. Because of their different components and functions, there may be some differences in the issues that can occur. Knowing more about how the AC in your home works can make it easier to identify potential trouble spots. Here are some of the most common types of air conditioners:
Traditional Central Air Conditioning Systems
Traditional central AC systems are one of the most common air conditioner types. Central air conditioners can cool larger areas while providing a more even temperature throughout the space. These systems have a network of air ducts throughout your home to distribute the cooled air. The main outdoor unit houses the condenser and compressor. The indoor unit features an air blower and evaporator coils.
Heat Pump Systems
Some central systems use heat pumps to both warm and cool a home. They work by transferring heat into or out of your home. Heat pumps tend to be more energy-efficient than traditional ACs.
Ductless Mini-Split Systems
Functionally a set of individual heat pumps, ductless mini-splits are growing in popularity due to their energy efficiency and flexibility. The outdoor unit tends to be smaller than traditional ACs. They don’t need air ducts but instead connect interior units mounted throughout the home to the external unit via refrigerant lines, allowing for greater temperature control. Each zone has individual controls, and because there are multiple indoor blower units, the system will remain functional even if one unit is not working properly.
AC Issues You Can Fix
While many AC issues require the expertise of a professional HVAC technician, there are some minor problems you can fix yourself. However, if you attempt these fixes and a problem is still present, contact a professional.
Changing AC Air Filters
As air filters accumulate dust and other contaminants, your air conditioner becomes less efficient at moving air, and indoor air quality declines. Depending on the type of AC system you have, you usually need to replace your filters every few months. (Mini-splits have reusable filters that should be cleaned every few weeks.) If you live in an area with more outdoor pollutants, have pets, or have significant pollen concentrations, you might need to change your filters more frequently.
Ensuring Vents Are Not Blocked
If you are having trouble cooling parts of your home, ensure nothing is blocking air from coming out of your AC’s vents. Furniture, curtains, and other fixtures can get in the way of your vents, preventing cool air from circulating properly. Additionally, dust and debris can build up on your vent covers, obstructing airflow. To maintain proper airflow and help the air quality in your home, clean the outside of your vent covers as needed.
Checking Thermostat Settings
If your AC doesn’t seem to be working properly, it could simply be the settings on your thermostat. Check that your thermostat is set to the correct temperature and is in cooling mode. If you accidentally set your AC to fan mode, air will come out of the vents, but it will not be cooled.
Clearing Debris Around Outdoor Units
Your AC’s outdoor unit needs proper airflow for optimal operation. Remove any grass, leaves, or other obstructions outside the unit. There should be at least a two-foot clearance around it, so trim back any overgrown bushes or other plants that may get in the way. However, don’t attempt to open the outdoor unit. Call a professional if you believe the inside of the unit requires cleaning.
AC Issues That Need Professionals
Most AC problems should be handled by a professional HVAC technician. Attempting to fix more serious AC problems by yourself can make problems worse, damage your system, damage your home, or lead to personal injury. Additionally, homeowner’s insurance or system warranty might not cover your claim if you attempt DIY AC repair. Here are some common issues that require professional help.
Electrical Problems
Complex electrical components are needed for the operation of your AC system. If your AC experiences an electrical problem, it can be a safety issue for you and risks damaging your home. Professional technicians have the equipment and experience necessary to fix an AC electrical problem safely.
Refrigerant Leaks
Refrigerant is vital to your AC’s ability to cool air. If refrigerant levels are low, it could signal a leak that a technician can find and repair. After the leak has been fixed, the technician will add more refrigerant to bring it up to the proper levels.
Strange Noises
If you hear weird noises from your AC like squealing, grinding, or banging, it may be due to a mechanical issue. A technician will need to diagnose the problem and solve it, possibly by replacing damaged or worn components inside the unit. These noises can be coming from the outdoor unit or system components inside the home.
Frozen Evaporator Coils
If your AC’s evaporator coils freeze, your system’s ability to cool your home could be compromised, and your AC could be damaged. Many different factors can cause this issue. A technician will diagnose the underlying cause and fix it to prevent further freezing.
Ductwork Cleaning
While your AC can help filter pollutants, dust and debris can accumulate inside your air ducts over time. If this occurs, it can obstruct airflow, reduce system efficiency, and negatively impact indoor air quality. To fix this issue, schedule professional duct cleaning with an HVAC company.
Ductwork Air Leak
Your air ducts can develop leaks that let cool air out and warm air in, reducing your system’s effectiveness and efficiency. An HVAC technician can identify and seal air duct leaks, improving your system’s performance.
Importance of Ongoing Professional Maintenance
To minimize the need for AC repair work, schedule regular professional maintenance. A technician can perform ongoing system tune-ups and check for signs of minor issues before they get worse. Ongoing professional maintenance can keep your system running efficiently and increase your system’s lifespan.
Do you live in Dallas, TX or the surrounding area and need help with your air conditioning system? Home Comfort Inc. is happy to get your issue solved. We can fix your existing AC, perform routine maintenance, or even install a new AC system. We work with all AC systems including traditional ACs, mini-splits, and heat pumps. We can also help with furnace repair, boiler installation, and geothermal systems. If you need to improve your indoor air quality, we can help you with air purification and humidifiers. Our HVAC services are available to both residential and commercial customers. If you’d like an experienced technician to repair your AC or you have questions about our other services, reach out to Home Comfort Inc. today!
