Identifying Common Air Conditioning Problems

Your air conditioning system provides you comfort during the hottest days of summer. But, just like other frequently-used home appliances, wear and tear can take their toll, and cause your unit to malfunction. In addition, other issues may come into play that may prevent your air conditioning from functioning at optimum levels. Some common problems are easy to fix on your own, while others may require the help of an HVAC specialist.

To limit the risk of more serious problems that may require repairs, a regular preventive maintenance schedule can help. It also helps if you know how to identify common air conditioning problems. This way, you can easily spot potential problems before they can do more damage to your system.

Common Air Conditioning Problems

•   Poor Air Pressure – When you experience weak air pressure from your unit, the problem may be mechanical in nature. It may also be due to a problem with the ductwork or the air filter. To be sure, inspect the air filter for too much dirt. In some cases, changing the filter may address the problem without need for additional repairs.

Another cause of the problem may be dirty evaporator coils. An AC tune-up can easily fix the issue. This usually happens if you fail to give your air conditioning a regular tune-up. Leaky ducts or a broken blower part may likewise affect the flow of air, either of which will necessitate repairs.

•   Blowing not so Cold Air – If your cooling equipment blows air that is not as cold as usual, you may need professional help to fix the problem. One of the most common causes of this problem is poor maintenance. Dirty coils prevent the smooth process of exchange between the refrigerant and the air. Another factor could be low levels of refrigerant. Either way, regular system maintenance can prevent the problem.

•   Short Cycling – When your system turns off before the desired cooling level is achieved, it is experiencing short cycling. The unit must stay on for no less than 20 minutes before it can dehumidify and cool adequately. This means there could be a problem if it shuts down before 20 minutes. Cycling problems may be due to inappropriate refrigerant levels. Other possible causes are frozen coils or electronic problems with the control board. If it is your first time to experience a cycling issue, you need to contact an HVAC specialist for proper diagnosis and repairs.

•   System not Operating – If your air handler or compressor is not running, the problem may be simple. Check the thermostat to make sure it is set to cool, and the target temperature is below the current reading. The thermostat batteries may also be causing the problem, and replacement may be necessary.

Another possible issue is a tripped breaker. If it trips frequently, the problem may be more serious than you suspect. It may require the services of a specialist.

Some air conditioning problems may need the services of experts. But, some are simple enough for a DIY fix. Follow the tips provided in this post to fix some common air conditioning problems.

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