Is your AC acting strange? If so, it's good to pay attention because it’s trying to tell you something.
The signs of an air conditioner’s problem can tell a lot about the type of issue the system is experiencing. Whether it’s peculiar noises, leaks, freezing up or another ailment—it all points to a particular culprit and requires a distinct repair. By knowing the specific symptoms, it's possible to figure out 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 routine 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 repair. This helps uncover potential problems before they cause malfunctions or other issues.
Here are some of of the typical AC problems and the indications you may see:
Why Does My Air Conditioner Leak?
An air conditioner leaking water can be a common issue. One of the most common causes of an AC leak is a clogged condensate drain line. The condensate drain line is designed to remove unwanted moisture from the air conditioning system. When this line becomes clogged with dirt, particles or mold, water can back up and start to escape.
Another typical reason for water leaking from an air conditioner is a damaged or rusted drip pan, which can enable water to overflow and leak out of the unit. In addition, a refrigerant leak or a broken pump can also cause water to leak from an AC unit.
It's crucial to address a leaking air conditioner right away to prevent damage to your home and make sure that your air conditioning system is operating efficiently. Professional air conditioner maintenance, including changing the air filter, examining the condensate drain line and inspecting the unit for damage can help prevent leaks from occurring.
What's the Reason My Air Conditioner Freezes Up?
If your AC is freezing up, it could be due to a variety of reasons. One common cause of a frozen air conditioner is restricted airflow, which can be caused by a plugged 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 insufficient refrigerant levels, which can cause the evaporator coil to become very cold and freeze. Leaking ducts or compromised insulation can also cause the buildup of chilled air and cause the evaporator coil to freeze.
To fix a frozen air conditioner, it's important to switch off the system and allow it to thaw completely. When the system has thawed, examine the air filter, ductwork and refrigerant levels to see if anything is amiss. Regular maintenance, including changing the air filter and having the system inspected annually by an expert.
Why Does My Air Conditioner Make So Much Noise?
If your air conditioner is making loud noises, it might be a signal that the unit needs service. One frequent cause of a loud air conditioner is a broken fan motor or a worn-out fan belt. The loudness can also be a sign the equipment has loose parts such as screws, bolts or bearings, which can cause vibrations and rattling sounds.
A noisy air conditioner also may have a dirty condenser coil, which can obstruct airflow and cause the system to work harder, resulting in more noise. Similarly, a damaged or old compressor can also be a reason you hear loud noises from the air conditioner.
Why Is My AC System Not Blowing Cold Air?
One common cause of an AC not producing cold air is a blocked air filter. A dirty air filter limit airflow, causing the evaporator coil to become extremely cold and freeze, resulting in a lack of cool air. Another plausible source of this issue is a refrigerant leak.
Low refrigerant levels can also cause the evaporator coil to become too cold and freeze, leading to a lack of cool air coming from your air conditioner. In addition, a faulty compressor or motor can also cause a lack of cool air. To address the issue, it's important to examine the air filter and exchange it if necessary.
Why Is My Air Conditioner Not Working or Not Turning On?
An air conditioner might not switch on because of a tripped circuit breaker or blown fuse. To fix this, find the electrical panel and reset any tripped breakers or change any blown fuses.
The source of the issue also could be a malfunctioning thermostat, which can prevent the air conditioner from switching on. If that's the case, check the thermostat and replace it, if necessary. In addition, a malfunctioning compressor, motor or capacitor can keep the air conditioner from turning on. To address this issue, it's best to get a hold of a professional to inspect and fix the unit.
Why Does My Air Conditioner Make Weird Noises?
In addition to the problem of air conditioners working louder than they should, occasionally they also make weird noises.
One typical cause of weird noises is a malfunctioning fan motor or a worn-out fan belt. These two dilemmas can cause scraping, squealing or grinding noises. Another possible cause is loose parts such as screws, bolts or bearings.
Additionally, a dirty air filter can cause an AC to make whistling or wheezing noises, while a refrigerant leak can produce hissing or bubbling noises.
As with lots of air conditioner problems, the root cause of uncommon noises is often something that can be reduced by regular air conditioning maintenance.
Contact Your Local AC Experts at Pliescott HVAC Services LLC
If your cooling system is having trouble, call the professionals at Pliescott HVAC Services LLC for quality air conditioning repair in Cambridge. Whether it’s a bizarre noise, a leak or another concern, our skilled specialists can get your unit back up and running fast!
If your AC has a continual issue and demands repeated or very expensive repairs to keep it going, it may be more convenient to replace your aging AC rather than constantly pay repair bills. If you need air conditioning installation in Cambridge, the top-notch crew at Pliescott HVAC Services LLC can help guide you through the process.