When the summer heat strikes, a malfunctioning air conditioner can quickly turn your home into an uncomfortable place. While some AC problems require professional repairs, many common issues can be taken care of by homeowners before calling an HVAC technician.
Understanding simple troubleshooting steps not only saves time and money but also helps you know when a situation truly calls for expert help. Here’s a guide to troubleshooting common air conditioning problems, what you can check yourself, and when to call in a pro.
1. Poor Airflow or Weak Cooling
What to check:
- Air filter: A dirty or clogged filter is one of the most common causes of poor airflow and inadequate cooling. Replace filters every 1 to 3 months during the cooling season.
- Air vents: Ensure all air supply vents are open and unobstructed by furniture, curtains, or debris.
- Outdoor unit: Inspect the condenser unit outside for debris, leaves, or dirt buildup. Clean around the unit to improve airflow.
If airflow remains weak after these steps, the issue might be a refrigerant leak or a failing compressor, requiring professional diagnosis.
2. Strange Noises
What to check:
- Loose panels or screws: Gently check if any screws or panels on the outdoor or indoor units are loose and tighten them if safe to do so.
- Foreign objects: Look for sticks, stones, or debris stuck in the outdoor fan.
- Changes in operation: If you notice unusual changes in how your unit turns on, off, or operates, this can tie into unusual sounds you’re hearing.
Unusual sounds like grinding, screeching, or banging usually indicate mechanical problems such as motor failure or damaged fan blades. Turn off the unit and schedule professional service immediately.
3. Water Leaks
What to check:
- Clogged condensate drain: The drain line can get clogged with algae or debris, causing water to back up and leak inside. You can try clearing minor clogs with a wet/dry vacuum.
- Drain pan: Look in the area underneath your indoor AC to see if the drip pan is full or overflowing.
- Frozen coils: Ice buildup on evaporator coils often results from dirty filters or low refrigerant and causes leaking when the ice melts.
If leaks continue, it’s important to call a technician to inspect and fix drainage or refrigerant issues before water damage occurs.
4. AC Short Cycling (Turning On and Off Frequently)
What to check:
- Thermostat placement: If your thermostat is near heat sources or in direct sunlight, it can cause rapid cycling. Try shading the thermostat or relocating it.
- Dirty filter: Replace if clogged, as restricted airflow can cause the system to overheat and shut off prematurely.
- Filter and outdoor unit: Dirty filters and blocked outdoor units reduce cooling capacity; clean or replace as needed.
Short cycling can also be caused by electrical problems or incorrect system sizing. A professional should evaluate if the problem persists.
For HVAC service you can rely on, trust Mahalo Heating and Air Conditioning. We’re proud to serve Douglas County with excellence, one customer at a time!
541-672-6707
