Your air conditioning system is an essential part of your comfort and can experience a variety of issues that impact functionality. From strange noises to inconsistent cooling, some problems can be resolved with DIY solutions while others require professional attention.
Identifying the underlying issue will help you schedule service promptly to keep your home comfortable. Contact Cincinnati Air Conditioning to learn more about the most common AC problems homeowners face.
Failing Compressor
If you find that your air conditioning system is tripping the circuit breaker on an ongoing basis, or it’s consuming more energy than usual, this could be the result of a failing compressor. Keeping up with regular maintenance and checking on refrigerant levels is one of the best ways to prevent this problem, but sometimes it’s just a matter of time before your compressor fails.
A common sign of a failing compressor is the sudden appearance of an electrical humming noise. This sound may be heard from a vent, or it might be felt as well. A failing compressor can also exhibit other signs such as short cycling, or a change in the amount of cool air that comes out of your vents.
Another indication of a failing compressor is the presence of oil that looks dark, sludgy or smells burnt. If you remove the compressor, you might be able to see a layer of copper flakes on its internal terminals. This is caused by the presence of acids, which are a result of moisture contamination. Usually, organic acids form when hygroscopic POE oil becomes saturated with moisture. Inorganic acids can also form from corrosion of metal components due to electrolytic action between copper flakes and other copper parts.
In some cases, a failing compressor can simply stop working entirely. If this happens, it will not reengage, and your AC system will only run as long as the thermostat calls for cooling. If you notice this happening, call a technician immediately.
A failing compressor can cause other problems that affect your home’s comfort, such as a high electricity bill. This is because the compressor is one of the primary power draws in an air conditioning system. This is why it’s important to track your energy consumption on a monthly and annual basis, so you can notice any sudden spikes. A spike in your electric bill can be the result of a number of HVAC issues, including dirty evaporator coils or a failing compressor. A quick call to a local technician will help you decide what is causing the problem and how it can be fixed.
Poor Airflow
Airflow through your AC system is what cools and circulates throughout your home. However, if any of the components that make this happen are damaged or blocked, the system won’t have the power to provide adequate cooling for your space. Some problems are easy to spot while others require a more thorough inspection by an experienced technician.
One of the simplest causes of poor airflow is dirty filters. It’s important to change filters regularly to avoid them getting clogged, which can slow airflow and reduce system efficiency. Inspecting your vents and ductwork can also help you discover blockages and kinks that limit airflow.
Another common problem is a lack of cooling. This often indicates a malfunction in the compressor or other equipment on your unit, but it can also be caused by a problem with your thermostat. For example, if the system keeps cycling on and off before reaching your desired temperature setpoint, it may be because the thermostat isn’t calibrated correctly or the wiring is corroded.
Finally, the location of your AC unit in your yard can affect its performance. If your unit is located in an area that receives a lot of direct sunlight, it can heat up the thermostat and cause it to override the system settings. This can lead to the fan turning on and off repeatedly, which wears out the fan motor and compressor faster than necessary.
Poor airflow isn’t just annoying; it puts stress on your system and raises energy bills. If you see a longer operating time on your energy bill or feel discomfort in rooms that don’t match the temperature setting on the thermostat, these are warning signs it’s time to schedule professional service.
Many of these issues aren’t as severe as they seem, especially if you book preventative maintenance service. This helps you catch any problems before they grow into expensive repairs. In addition, regular maintenance can improve the lifespan of your system and ensure it works at peak capacity for years to come. Contact us today to learn more about our maintenance plans.
Refrigerant Leaks
A refrigerant leak is a serious problem that can have a big impact on your home cooling. Refrigerant is the chemical compound that your AC unit uses to absorb and release heat, creating a closed loop of coils that keeps your home cool. Unfortunately, your air conditioner will eventually start to wear down and the joints and connections can develop little holes and cracks. Over time, these little separations can get worse and lead to a refrigerant leak.
When there is a refrigerant leak, your system will have to work harder to achieve the same level of cooling that it did before the refrigerant leak. This can lead to higher energy bills, which can be frustrating. In addition, the loss of refrigerant will reduce the dehumidification capabilities of your air conditioning unit.
Refrigerant is a very hazardous substance and must be handled by a professional who knows how to handle it properly. You should immediately call an AC repair service if you notice an exhaust smell coming from your system or any other signs of a refrigerant leak.
The main signs of a refrigerant leak include warm air blowing out of your vents and lower than normal cooling efficiency. In some cases, you may even notice ice forming on the evaporator coils. This can cause the system to break down completely, which is a costly repair.
If you have a small leak, you might try to fix it by adding a sealant. However, it’s important to understand that these quick fixes often do more harm than good. In fact, they can actually clog the system and cause the leak to become worse!
Aside from being hazardous to your health, a refrigerant leak can also lead to a variety of other problems with your air conditioning. When the refrigerant leaks out, it can attract dust and other pollutants that can cause damage to the system’s components. The resulting corrosion can make the leaks worse, so it’s crucial to catch them early and have them repaired as soon as possible. Getting your refrigerant leaks fixed as soon as you notice them will save you money, prevent future problems, and keep your family cool and comfortable all summer long.
Smart Thermostat Issues
A smart thermostat is a powerful translator between you and your HVAC system, but that translation can go wrong for a number of reasons. Incorrectly configured settings and mismatched wires are common culprits, but sometimes smart thermostat problems stem from a simple oversight. For example, a technician might install your thermostat without following the manufacturer’s step-by-step instructions for setting it up properly. This mistake often leads to a communication breakdown between the thermostat and your HVAC system.
Thermostat malfunctions also include incorrect temperature readings and short cycling, which can lead to your air conditioning turning on and off in small cycles rather than completing a cooling cycle. This can reduce energy efficiency and cause significant wear and tear on your system. To resolve these issues, try restarting your device and recalibrating it to the correct settings. Also, make sure that your thermostat isn’t located near drafty areas or in direct sunlight, which can impact its accuracy.
Another common thermostat problem is poor fan operation, which can result in a lack of cooled air throughout your home. If your system is running but the house feels stuffy, this may be due to a dirty or clogged filter. Regularly cleaning or replacing your filters will keep them clean and improve airflow for a more comfortable home.
Blocked or leaking ducts are another common source of HVAC system problems. Ducts that are in good condition effectively transport cooled air from the central system to all corners of your home, but damaged or poorly sealed ducts can reduce this performance. Professional technicians can seal your ducts to eliminate leaks and improve the efficiency of your AC.
It’s important to address air conditioner problems as soon as you spot them. Ignoring a problem can escalate the issue into greater damage and inflict lasting harm on your system. Contact a Brown’s technician today for air conditioning repairs or maintenance services. We can help you get your system back up and running quickly to prevent costly AC repair bills in the future. We also offer a number of energy-saving tips for homeowners to maximize their HVAC systems’ potential.