Is your air conditioner acting weird? Chances are, 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 afflicted with. Whether it’s odd noises, leaks, freezing up or another breakdown—it all points to a particular culprit and requires a specific remedy. By identifying the specific symptoms, you can identify 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 Air conditioning maintenance call includes an inspection and cleaning of your system, as well as finding 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 the top AC problems and the indications you may see:
Why Is My Air Conditioner Leaking?
A cooling system leaking water can be a frequent issue. One of the most common causes of an air conditioner leak is a plugged condensate drain line. The condensate drain line is responsible for removing excess 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 explanation for water leaking from an air conditioner is a broken or rusted drip pan, which can permit water to overflow and leak out of the unit. Also, a refrigerant leak or a malfunctioning 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 ensure that your air conditioning system is functioning efficiently. Regular air conditioner maintenance, including changing the air filter, checking the condensate drain line and inspecting the unit for damage can help prevent leaks from developing in the future.
What's the Reason My Air Conditioner Freezes Up?
If your air conditioner is freezing up, it may be because of a variety of reasons. One common cause of a frozen air conditioner is reduced airflow, which can be caused by a plugged air filter, obstructed ductwork or closed vents. This leads to 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 very cold and freeze. Leaking ducts or cracked 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 switch off the system 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 professional.
Why Is My Air Conditioner So Loud?
If your air conditioner is making loud noises, it might be a signal that your AC needs service. One frequent cause of a loud air conditioner is a malfunctioning fan motor or a worn-out fan belt. The racket 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 might have a dirty condenser coil, which can block airflow and cause the system to work harder, resulting in greater noise. In addition, a defective or old compressor can also cause loud noises from the air conditioner.
Why Is My Air Conditioner Not Blowing Cold Air?
One common cause of an air conditioning system not making cold air is a clogged air filter. A dirty air filter can significantly slow airflow, causing the evaporator coil to become extremely cold and freeze, resulting in insufficient cool air. Another plausible reason for this problem is a refrigerant leak.
Low refrigerant levels can also cause the evaporator coil to become too cold and freeze, which can result in a lack of cool air coming from your air conditioner. In addition, a faulty compressor or motor can also cause the AC not to blow cold air. To rectify this, it's important to examine the air filter and change it if necessary.
Why Is My Air Conditioner Not Working or Not Turning On?
An air conditioner might not turn on because of a tripped circuit breaker or blown fuse. To repair this, check the electrical panel and reset any tripped breakers or replace any blown fuses.
The source of the issue also could be a malfunctioning thermostat, which can stop the air conditioner from turning on. In this case, check the thermostat and replace it, if required. In addition, a problematic compressor, motor or capacitor can prevent the air conditioner from turning on. In this case, it's best to get in touch with a professional to inspect and fix the unit.
Why Is My Air Conditioner Making a Weird Noise?
In addition to the problem of air conditioners running louder than they ought to, at times they also make peculiar noises.
One common cause of weird noises is a broken fan motor or a worn-out fan belt. These two problems can produce scraping, squealing or grinding noises. One other possible cause is loose parts such as screws, bolts or bearings.
Furthermore, a clogged air filter can cause whistling or wheezing noises from an air conditioner, while a refrigerant leak can cause hissing or bubbling noises.
As with many air conditioner predicaments, the root cause of odd noises is often something that can be reduced by regular air conditioning maintenance.
Contact Your Local AC Experts at Allstar Heating & Air Conditioning
If your air conditioner is having issues, reach out to the professionals at Allstar Heating & Air Conditioning for quality air conditioning repair in Buellton. Whether it’s a weird noise, a leak or another problem, 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 pay for service calls. If you need air conditioning installation in Buellton, the first-rate crew at Allstar Heating & Air Conditioning can help guide you through the process.