Is your air conditioning acting unusual? Chances are, it’s trying to tell you something.
The symptoms of an air conditioner’s problem can tell a lot about the sort of issue the system is afflicted with. Whether it’s weird noises, leaks, freezing up or another breakdown—it all points to a particular culprit and requires a unique remedy. By identifying the specific symptoms, it's more likely that you'll be able to figure out the potential causes of the problem and determine the best course of action for repairing the air conditioning system.
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 service. This helps uncover potential problems before they cause malfunctions or other issues.
Here are a few of the typical AC problems and the signs you may see:
Why Is My Air Conditioner Leaking?
Air conditioning leaking water can be a frequent issue. One of the most common causes of an air conditioner leak is a clogged condensate drain line. The condensate drain line is is supposed to take away extra moisture from the air conditioning system. When this line becomes slow or stopped up with dirt, dust or mold, water can back up and start to leak.
Another potential explanation for water leaking from an air conditioner is a broken or rusted drip pan, which can enable water to overflow and leak out of the unit. Additionally, a refrigerant leak or a busted pump might also cause water to leak from an AC unit.
It's important to address a leaking air conditioner promptly to avoid damage to your home and ensure that your air conditioning system is operating efficiently. Routine air conditioner maintenance, including replacing the air filter, taking a look at the condensate drain line and inspecting the unit for damage can help prevent leaks from happening.
Why Is My Air Conditioner Freezing Up?
If your air conditioner is freezing up, it might stem from a variety of reasons. One common cause of a frozen air conditioner is limited airflow, which can be caused by a blocked air filter, obstructed ductwork or closed vents. This leads to a buildup of cold 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 too cold and freeze. Leaking ducts or cracked 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 so it can thaw completely. When the system has thawed, check 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 a professional.
Why Is My Air Conditioner So Loud?
If your air conditioner is making loud noises, it could be an indication that it needs service. One common cause of a noisy air conditioner is a damaged fan motor or a damaged fan belt. The racket might also be caused by 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 hinder airflow and cause the system to work harder, resulting in more noise. Similarly, 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 blocked air filter. A dirty air filter can significantly slow airflow, causing the evaporator coil to become very cold and freeze, resulting in a lack of 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 AC. Additionally, a faulty compressor or motor can also cause an air conditioner to not produce cool air. To rectify the issue, it's important to inspect the air filter and change it if necessary.
Why Is My Air Conditioner Not Working or Not Turning On?
An air conditioner might not start up because of a tripped circuit breaker or blown fuse. To fix this, check the electrical panel and reset any tripped breakers or change any blown fuses.
The cause also could be a malfunctioning thermostat, which can prevent the air conditioner from starting. If that's the case, check the thermostat and substitute it with a new one, if needed. Also, a faulty compressor, motor or capacitor can keep the air conditioner from turning on. In this case, it's best to contact 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 operating louder than they should, at times they also make strange noises.
One frequently encountered cause of weird noises is a deteriorating fan motor or a worn-out fan belt. These two dilemmas can produce scraping, squealing or grinding noises. One other potential cause is loose parts such as screws, bolts or bearings.
Furthermore, a blocked air filter can cause an AC to make whistling or wheezing noises, while a refrigerant leak can cause hissing or bubbling noises.
As with many air conditioner predicaments, the root cause of strange noises is often something that can be reduced by regular air conditioning maintenance.
Call the Trusted AC Experts at Thurston Heating & Air Conditioning
If your cooling system is having problems, reach out to the professionals at Thurston Heating & Air Conditioning for quality air conditioning repair in Kearney. Whether it’s a weird noise, a leak or another problem, our skilled professionals can get your unit back up and running fast!
If your AC has a persistent issue and demands constant or very expensive repairs to keep it going, it may be more beneficial to replace your aging AC rather than constantly pay pay for service calls. If you could use air conditioning installation in Kearney, the top-notch crew at Thurston Heating & Air Conditioning can help guide you through the process.