With warm temperatures comes the need to make sure everything is working properly with your AC unit. You wouldn’t believe the number of calls we get on some of the hottest days of the summer.
While we’re more than happy to help you with common AC problems any time of the year, you don’t have to let common air conditioning issues cause you and your family discomfort. Tackle them now. Here are the top 5 most common AC problems that homeowners may encounter.
1. AC Blowing Warm Air
One of the most common problems with AC units that we encounter is an air conditioner that is blowing warm or even hot air.
This problem could be due to a dirty air filter, which blocks the airflow and reduces the unit’s efficiency. Another cause could be a malfunctioning compressor, which may require professional repair or replacement.
Your goal is to rule out the first issue. Check, clean, or replace your air filters regularly, every 30-60 days, and be sure to have us come out and check your system periodically as well.
2. AC Won’t Turn On
The worst issue to run into is when your AC won’t even kick on. There are a number of reasons why this happens. Some are easy to fix, while others aren’t.
The first thing you want to do is check your circuit breaker. You may have tripped a circuit and caused power to stop flowing to your AC unit.
Your thermostat could also be causing the issue. Take the covering off and make sure everything is connected — check that none of the wires have come loose. Be sure to shut the breaker off before removing the thermostat plate.
If you’ve done all of these things and still haven’t identified the issue, give us a call to come out and look at your system. Additionally, consider investing in a programmable thermostat to regulate your home’s temperature more efficiently.
3. Uneven Temperature Distribution
If you notice that some rooms in your house are colder or warmer than others, your AC unit may be experiencing uneven temperature distribution. This could be due to several reasons, such as dirty air ducts, a clogged air filter, or a malfunctioning thermostat.
To prevent this issue, make sure to clean or replace your air filter regularly and schedule professional duct cleaning to ensure proper airflow.
We can install supplementary systems that can help with certain rooms that may struggle to stay cold (i.e rooms with a lot of large windows, finished attics, etc).
4. Refrigerant or Water Leak
A refrigerant or water leak can cause significant damage to your AC unit and require expensive repairs. Symptoms of this problem include reduced airflow, higher energy bills, and water puddles around the unit.
If you take a look at your AC unit and you notice puddles of water around it, you’ll want to contact us immediately. Don’t put the problem off. You’ll be paying for it when you get your electric bill.
5. AC Tripping Circuit Breaker
If your AC unit keeps tripping the circuit breaker, it could be due to an electrical issue, such as a short circuit, loose electrical connection, or overloaded circuit. This problem can lead to safety hazards and damage to your unit.
Make sure you’re not overloading your circuit breaker and consider adding another breaker box if you feel like you are. Depending on the age of your home, you might only have a 60, 80, or 100 amp box, whereas most new homes have 200 amps now.
Can a Thermostat Affect AC in the House?
Yes, your thermostat will impact the performance of your heating and cooling system. If your thermostat is malfunctioning, it may not accurately read the temperature or regulate the airflow, leading to uneven temperature distribution or higher energy bills.
Final Thoughts
As a homeowner, make sure you address any of these issues right away to prevent further damage or discomfort in your home. Remember that these are the most common AC problems and solutions, so most of them can be handled with a little research.
Be sure to schedule annual maintenance with a licensed HVAC technician from Hibdon’s Heat and Air to prevent further issues in the future.
