Is your AC acting strange? Chances are, it’s trying to tell you something.
The signs of an air conditioner’s problem can tell a lot about the kind of issue the system is experiencing. Whether it’s odd noises, leaks, freezing up or another ailment—it all points to a particular culprit and requires a distinct remedy. By identifying the specific symptoms, it's more likely that you'll be able to identify 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 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 find potential problems before they cause equipment failures or other issues.
Here are a few of the top AC problems and the signals you may see:
Why Does My Air Conditioner Leak?
An air conditioner 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 is supposed to take away excess moisture from the air conditioning system. When this line becomes slow or stopped up with dirt, particles or mold, water can back up and start to leak.
Another possible explanation for water leaking from an air conditioner is a broken or rusted drip pan, which can allow 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 crucial to address a leaking air conditioner right away to prevent damage to your home and make sure that your air conditioning system is operating efficiently. Regular air conditioner maintenance, including changing the air filter, taking a look at the condensate drain line and inspecting the unit for damage can help prevent leaks from happening.
What's the Reason My Air Conditioner Freezes Up?
If your AC is freezing up, it could be because of a variety of reasons. One typical cause of a frozen air conditioner is reduced airflow, which can be caused by a clogged air filter, obstructed ductwork or closed vents. This leads to a buildup of frigid air in the evaporator coil, causing it to freeze.
An additional reason your air conditioner is frozen might be reduced refrigerant levels, which can cause the evaporator coil to become too cold and freeze. Leaking ducts or damaged insulation can also result in 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 malfunctioning. Regular maintenance, including exchanging the air filter and having the system inspected annually by an expert.
Why Is My Air Conditioner So Loud?
If your air conditioner is making loud noises, it might be an indication that your AC needs service. One common cause of a noisy air conditioner is a broken fan motor or a failing fan belt. The loudness could 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 obstruct airflow and cause the system to work harder, resulting in greater noise. Similarly, a broken or old compressor can also produce loud noises from the air conditioner.
Why Is My Air Conditioner Not Blowing Cold Air?
One common cause of an air conditioner not producing cold air is a blocked air filter. A dirty air filter can significantly slow airflow, causing the evaporator coil to become too cold and freeze, resulting in a lack of cool air. Another potential source of this issue is a refrigerant leak.
Low refrigerant levels can also cause the evaporator coil to become too cold and freeze, leading to a lack of cool air coming from your air conditioning. Also, a faulty compressor or motor can also cause the AC not to blow cold air. To rectify this, it's important to check the air filter and exchange it if necessary.
Why Won't My Air Conditioner Run or Start?
An air conditioner might not turn on because of a tripped circuit breaker or blown fuse. To fix this, find the electrical panel and reset any tripped breakers or replace any blown fuses.
The cause also could be a malfunctioning thermostat, which can keep the air conditioner from starting. If that's the case, check the thermostat and change it, if needed. Additionally, a faulty compressor, motor or capacitor can stop the air conditioner from turning on. To address this issue, it's best to get a hold of a professional to inspect and fix the unit.
Why Does My Air Conditioner Make Weird Noises?
In addition to the problem of air conditioners working louder than they should, occasionally they also make peculiar noises.
One typical cause of weird noises is a broken fan motor or a worn-out fan belt. These two issues can produce scraping, squealing or grinding noises. Yet another possible cause is loose parts such as screws, bolts or bearings.
Additionally, a clogged air filter can cause an AC to make whistling or wheezing noises, while a refrigerant leak can produce hissing or bubbling noises.
As with a lot of air conditioner woes, the root cause of strange noises is often something that can be reduced by regular air conditioning maintenance.
Call the Trusted AC Experts at Gopher Heating and Air Conditioning
If your air conditioning equipment is having issues, call the professionals at Gopher Heating and Air Conditioning for quality air conditioning repair in Savage. Whether it’s a bizarre noise, a leak or another concern, our skilled team members can get your unit back up and running fast!
If your AC has a continual issue and requires frequent or very expensive repairs to keep it going, it may be more advantageous to replace your aging AC rather than constantly pay for repairs. If you need air conditioning installation in Savage, the first-rate crew at Gopher Heating and Air Conditioning can help guide you through the process.
