Is your air conditioning 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 sort of issue the system is afflicted with. Whether it’s peculiar noises, leaks, freezing up or another ailment—it all points to a particular culprit and requires a distinct repair. By knowing the specific symptoms, it's possible to narrow down the potential causes of the problem and determine the best course of action for repairing the AC.
While the symptoms are often very different, many cooling system issues stem from problems that can be avoided by scheduling regular air conditioning maintenance. That’s because a routine Air conditioner 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 to be fixed. This helps uncover potential problems before they cause equipment failures or other issues.
Here are some of the typical AC problems and the signals you may see:
Why Do AC Systems Leak?
An air conditioner leaking water can be a widespread issue. One of the most common causes of an AC leak is a clogged condensate drain line. The condensate drain line is is supposed to take away excess moisture from the air conditioning system. When this line becomes clogged with dirt, particles or mold, water can back up and start to come out of the unit.
Another typical 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. In addition, a refrigerant leak or a broken pump might also cause water to leak from an AC unit.
It's necessary to address a leaking air conditioner promptly to reduce the amount of damage to your home and ensure that your air conditioning system is functioning efficiently. Professional air conditioner maintenance, including replacing the air filter, checking 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 AC is freezing up, it may be due to a variety of reasons. One frequent cause of a frozen air conditioner is reduced airflow, which can be caused by a blocked air filter, obstructed ductwork or closed vents. This can cause a buildup of cold air in the evaporator coil, causing it to freeze.
One more 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 compromised 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 air conditioning so that 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 a skilled technician.
Is My Air Conditioner Supposed to Be Loud?
If your air conditioner is making loud noises, it could be a signal that the unit needs service. One common cause of a very loud air conditioner is a damaged fan motor or a worn-out fan belt. The loudness might also be the result of loose parts such as screws, bolts or bearings, which can cause vibrations and rattling sounds.
A noisy air conditioner also may have a dirty condenser coil, which can prevent airflow and cause the system to work harder, resulting in greater noise. Similarly, a broken 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 AC not blowing cold air is a clogged air filter. A dirty air filter limit airflow, causing the evaporator coil to become very cold and freeze, resulting in insufficient cool air. Another potential cause is a refrigerant leak.
Low refrigerant levels may also cause the evaporator coil to become too cold and freeze, resulting in a lack of cool air coming from your air conditioning. In addition, a faulty compressor or motor can also cause an air conditioner to not produce cool air. To rectify this particular problem, it's important to examine the air filter and replace it if necessary.
Why Won't My Air Conditioner Run or Start?
Your air conditioning system might not switch on 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. In this case, check the thermostat and replace it, if needed. Additionally, a problematic compressor, motor or capacitor can keep the air conditioner from turning on. In this case, it's best to get in touch with a professional to inspect and service the unit.
Why Does My Air Conditioner Make Weird Noises?
In addition to the problem of air conditioners working louder than they ought to, at times they also make peculiar 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. Yet another possible cause is loose parts such as screws, bolts or bearings.
Furthermore, a dirty air filter can cause an AC to make whistling or wheezing noises, while a refrigerant leak can make hissing or bubbling noises.
As with many air conditioner predicaments, the root cause of uncommon noises is often something that can be reduced by regular air conditioning maintenance.
Get in Touch with Our AC Experts at Morgner Inc. Air Conditioning & Heating
If your air conditioner is having trouble, reach out to the professionals at Morgner Inc. Air Conditioning & Heating for quality air conditioning repair in Saint Louis. Whether it’s a peculiar 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 convenient to replace your aging AC rather than constantly pay repair bills. If you could use air conditioning installation in Saint Louis, the high-quality crew at Morgner Inc. Air Conditioning & Heating can help guide you through the process.