Air conditioners are absolutely essential on a hot summer afternoon — unless they’re broken. There are a variety of problems that can prevent ACs from functioning properly, and knowing how to spot them will ensure that you can schedule repairs or a replacement as soon as possible. Let’s take a look at five potential issues that air conditioning systems can have.
No More Cool Air
If your air conditioner stops blowing cool air, it’s an obvious sign that something is wrong. A refrigerant leak or compressor issue are two possible culprits. The refrigerant is essential for absorbing heat from the air — without it, the air conditioning unit can’t cool the room effectively. A low refrigerant level could be due to a leak, which prevents the AC system from reaching the temperature set on the thermostat.
Another possible cause is a failing compressor, which is responsible for circulating refrigerant. If the compressor malfunctions, it won’t pump refrigerant through the system, resulting in warm air being blown into your home. Both of these problems can lead to uncomfortable conditions, especially on the hottest days, so it’s best not to ignore them.
Poor Airflow
Reduced airflow typically happens when there is a clogged air filter, blocked ducts, or an issue with the blower motor in your air conditioning unit. A clogged air filter restricts the passage of air, which reduces the amount of cold air circulating in your home. Blocked vents or ducts can also cause uneven cooling, leaving some rooms warmer than others.
In some cases, high humidity can also lead to mold growth in the ducts, which further obstructs airflow. A malfunctioning blower motor can also reduce the efficiency of the HVAC system, causing poor airflow and making it difficult for your air conditioner to maintain a comfortable temperature. It’s worth noting that regular maintenance can help prevent these problems by keeping the airflow unblocked and consistent.
Constant Cycling
When your AC unit constantly turns on and off, it may be caused by thermostat problems, a refrigerant leak, or an overworked compressor. If the thermostat is faulty or placed near a heat source, it can misread the room’s temperature and cause the air conditioning unit to cycle more frequently.
A refrigerant leak can also cause the system to work harder to cool the room, leading to constant cycling as the AC struggles to reach the desired temperature. An overworked or failing compressor might struggle to maintain consistent cooling, resulting in the energy-wasting frequent on-and-off cycles. Not only does this increase energy consumption, but it also puts unnecessary stress on the system.
Strange Sounds
Odd sounds coming from your air conditioner, such as grinding, banging, or hissing, usually indicate mechanical problems. For example, grinding noises might mean that components inside the compressor are worn out or that there is debris inside the unit.
Banging sounds often suggest a loose or broken part, like a fan blade or motor mount, which can cause further damage if not addressed. Hissing noises may indicate a refrigerant leak, which not only affects the cooling efficiency but can also be harmful to health. These unusual noises are warning signs that the air conditioning unit requires immediate attention to prevent bigger, more costly problems.
Unusual Smells
Strange odors coming from your air conditioner can point to different underlying problems. A musty odor often means there is mold or mildew growing inside the air conditioning unit, possibly due to high humidity or water leaks in the system. On the other hand, if you smell something burning, this could indicate a burned-out wire or an overheating component, which poses a fire hazard.
These smells should never be ignored as they can signal serious issues that need to be addressed. Promptly contacting a professional for air conditioner repair can help you identify the source of the smell and prevent potential safety hazards.
For Professional AC Services, Call Fiscor Heating & Cooling Today
If your air conditioner breaks down, Fiscor Heating & Cooling can help. Our technicians offer AC repair to fix a wide range of problems, AC replacements in the event your system is on its way out, and AC maintenance to help keep it in top shape. Contact us today to learn more about how we can bring cool air back to your Arizona home.