Air conditioning units are essential for maintaining comfortable indoor temperatures, especially during summer. Like all complex appliances, AC units can develop problems that affect their performance. This week’s Brackett Heating, Air & Plumbing blog explores three common air conditioner troubleshooting problems and offers a brief guide on how to handle them.
Unraveling the Chill: Common Air Conditioner Troubleshooting Problems
- Inadequate Cooling: One of the most frequent issues with air conditioners is that they do not cool the room as expected. This problem can occur due to a variety of reasons including: a dirty air filter, insufficient refrigerant, or a malfunctioning thermostat. Regular maintenance, including cleaning or replacing the air filter every 1-3 months, can significantly enhance your AC’s cooling efficiency. Low refrigerant levels, often a sign of leaks, require professional intervention. Lastly, verify if your thermostat is correctly calibrated and not affected by external heat sources.
- AC Not Turning On: If your AC refuses to power up, there may be an issue with the circuit breaker, thermostat, or internal components of the unit. Your first step should be to check whether a breaker has tripped or a fuse has blown, depending on how your home is wired. If the AC still doesn’t turn on, inspect the thermostat settings, ensuring it’s set to “cool” mode and the desired temperature. If these quick fixes don’t work, it’s time to call Brackett Heating, Air & Plumbing to examine the AC’s internal components.
- Unusual Noises: Air conditioners typically operate quietly. Any strange noises like grinding, buzzing, or squealing could indicate mechanical issues. A buzzing noise might signal electrical problems, while grinding or squealing may be due to faulty motor bearings or a slipped belt. These issues are best handled by a Brackett HVAC professional to prevent further damage and ensure safe handling.
In summary, regular AC maintenance can help prevent the common problems of inadequate cooling and unusual noises. Remember that while some minor issues can be resolved by you, more complex problems involving electrical or mechanical components should be left to a professional. Your AC unit is a significant investment that, when well-maintained, can offer years of comfort.
To schedule an AC repair, a new HVAC installation or AC system maintenance, call Brackett Heating, Air & Plumbing today.
