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Writer's pictureHaught Air Conditioner

Troubleshooting Common Air Conditioning Issues

Updated: Jul 8

A close up of a homeowner changing the filter in their AC unit

Ever experienced a sweltering summer day without an AC? 


Not fun, right? 


In fact, we'd go as far as to say it's downright miserable. Our dependable soldier, the air conditioner, truly becomes our best friend during those scorching heatwaves, keeping our lives cozy and chill.


But just like everything else, these cool machines have their share of temper tantrums. Issues like not cooling enough, making weird noises, or even water leaks can often disrupt our peace. 


Fear not, though! Your ultimate guide to troubleshooting common AC issues is right here.


Let's get into it.


Understanding Your AC System 


Okay, homeowners and fans of the trusty AC, to be ace troubleshooters, we need to understand our AC a bit. Simply put, your AC unit has three main parts:


  • The Compressor: This guy compresses the refrigerant, making it super hot.

  • The Condenser: This one cools down the hot refrigerant and turns it into a liquid.

  • The Evaporator: This part's job is to turn the liquid back into gas and in the process, chill the air that blows into your home.


Getting a hang of these basic AC components powers up your troubleshooting game. It guides you straight to the problem without beating around the (bushy) condenser coils!


Therefore, make sure you get familiar with your manual, but make sure you're safe! If you don't feel confident getting stuck into your AC yourself, then absolutely don't try, because you don't want to break anything nor hurt yourself and those around you.


Instead, get the professionals in to help. That said, you should still be cleaning your AC unit to keep it running to the best of its ability, plus changing filters and carrying out basic maintenance, as per your unit's instruction or operational manual.


Troubleshooting Common Air Conditioning Issues

A homeowner cleaning the filters in their AC unit

Now we've covered the basics, let's dive into some of the most common air conditioning issues you might face:


  1. No Cooling: Your AC is on, but there's no cool air? Bummer! This could be due to low refrigerant, a blocked air filter, or even thermostat issues.

  2. Insufficient Cooling: Is your AC cooling, but just not enough? It might be time to check for dirty coils, incorrect thermostat settings, or ductwork problems.

  3. AC Not Turning On: If your AC just won't start, inspect the power supply, circuit breakers, and that sneaky thermostat.

  4. Strange Noises: Hearing an odd soundtrack? It could be from loose parts, damaged fan blades, or something pesky caught in the AC unit.

  5. Water Leaks: Got an unexpected indoor water feature? Uh-oh! Possible culprits are dirty air filters, a blocked drain line, or frozen coils.


Troubleshooting Steps and Solutions


Let's arm ourselves against AC hiccups with some tricks to troubleshooting common air conditioning issues. Keep your toolkit close, folks!


Thermostat Settings


An incorrectly configured thermostat can play tricks on your AC's cooling. Make sure your thermostat is set to cooling mode, with the desired temperature below the room's current temperature. Have a programmable one? Check all the settings and the scheduled programs.


Checking Circuit Breakers and Fuses


Oops! Your AC won't turn on? Your circuit breakers or fuses could be the party poopers. Locate your breaker box and check if the switch for the AC has tripped. If it has, simply reset it. Ensure the fuse hasn't blown up. If it has, you need a replacement.


Cleaning or Replacing Filters


Filters capture dust and allergens, providing you with healthy air. However, when clogged, they block airflow, leading to many issues. It's best to clean the filters monthly and replace them every 3 months. Trust us, your AC will thank you for this!


Cleaning the AC Unit


Debris, dust, and leaves can accumulate around your outdoor AC unit, restricting air intake. So, doing a quick cleaning now and then does wonders. Just turn off the power, remove the debris, and gently clean the fins with a garden hose.


Checking for Frozen Coils


Frozen coil? Your AC is in trouble. Check for ice around the outdoor unit or on the indoor evaporator coil. If you spot ice, it's time to thaw your AC by turning it off and fan on, allowing the ice to melt.


Calling for Professional Servicing


If things get tough, say hello to the experts! Remember, some jobs need a pro's touch. A regular servicing includes a thorough inspection and can avoid many common AC issues.


Let the Pros Keep Your AC Shipshape: Professional Maintenance


The ultimate shield against AC troubles is professional maintenance. Experts like Haught Air Conditioning ensure the longevity and efficiency of your system. Their services include AC installation, repair, and maintenance. By scheduling regular tune-ups, you can prevent the most common issues.


Regular maintenance with professionals like Haught Air Conditioning helps save energy, reduces repair costs, and enhances comfort. We cater to central Texas residents, providing AC repair and heating systems with exceptional customer service.


Our qualified technicians and high-quality services make us the perfect choice for your AC maintenance needs.


Conclusion


And just like that, we've reached the end of our AC troubleshooting rollercoaster! Remember, a well-cared-for AC is a happy AC. Regularly checking thermostat settings, cleaning filters, and watching for frozen coils will save you from those pesky hiccups along the way.


But, when in doubt, turn to the pros! Need some real AC help? Don't hesitate to ring Haught Air Conditioning for expert assistance. We'll swoop in, ensuring your cool companion stays fit so you can enjoy that refreshing breeze!


Get in contact with us today to see how we can help you with all things AC-related!


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