Is your air conditioner acting strange? If so, it's good to pay attention because it’s trying to tell you something.
The symptoms of an air conditioner’s problem can tell a lot about the kind of issue the system is experiencing. Whether it’s peculiar noises, leaks, freezing up or another problem—it all points to a particular culprit and requires a unique repair. By identifying the specific symptoms, you can figure out the potential causes of the problem and determine the best course of action for repairing the air conditioning system.
While the symptoms are often unique, many cooling system issues stem from problems that can be avoided by scheduling regular air conditioning maintenance. That’s because a routine AC maintenance call includes an inspection and cleaning of your system, as well as locating any parts that may be wearing out and need replacement or repair. This helps find potential problems before they cause breakdowns or other issues.
Here are some of of the top AC problems and the signs 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 clogged condensate drain line. The condensate drain line is designed to remove unwanted moisture from the air conditioning system. When this line becomes clogged with dirt, dust or mold, water can back up and start to leak.
Another possible explanation for water leaking from an air conditioner is a damaged or rusted drip pan, which can allow water to overflow and leak out of the unit. Also, a refrigerant leak or a busted pump might also cause water to leak from an AC unit.
It's necessary to address a leaking air conditioner quickly to reduce the amount of damage to your home and ensure that your air conditioning system is running efficiently. Routine air conditioner maintenance, including changing the air filter, examining 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 air conditioner is freezing up, it could stem from a variety of reasons. One common cause of a frozen air conditioner is reduced airflow, which can be caused by a plugged air filter, obstructed ductwork or closed vents. This sometimes causes a buildup of frigid air in the evaporator coil, causing it to freeze.
Another reason your air conditioner is frozen might be reduced refrigerant levels, which can cause the evaporator coil to become really cold and freeze. Leaking ducts or damaged insulation can also cause the buildup of frosty air and cause the evaporator coil to freeze.
To fix a frozen air conditioner, it's important to power down the air conditioning so it can thaw completely. When the system has thawed, examine the air filter, ductwork and refrigerant levels to see if anything is amiss. Regular maintenance, including changing 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 loud air conditioner is a damaged fan motor or a worn-out fan belt. The noise could 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 block airflow and cause the system to work harder, resulting in increased noise. Additionally, a broken or old compressor can also produce loud noises from the air conditioner.
Why Won'y My Air Conditioning Blow Cold Air?
One common cause of an AC not making cold air is a very dirty air filter. A dirty air filter restricts airflow, causing the evaporator coil to become too cold and freeze, resulting in not enough cool air. Another plausible source of this issue is a refrigerant leak.
Low refrigerant levels might also cause the evaporator coil to become too cold and freeze, which can result in a lack of cool air coming from your AC. Additionally, a faulty compressor or motor can also cause an air conditioner to not produce cool air. To address this particular problem, it's important to inspect the air filter and exchange it if necessary.
Why Won't My Air Conditioner Run or Start?
An air conditioner might not switch on because of a tripped circuit breaker or blown fuse. To fix this, inspect the electrical panel and reset any tripped breakers or replace any blown fuses.
Another possible cause is a malfunctioning thermostat, which can prevent the air conditioner from turning on. In that case, check the thermostat and change it, if necessary. Additionally, a malfunctioning compressor, motor or capacitor can stop the air conditioner from turning on. To address this issue, 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 issues can make scraping, squealing or grinding noises. Yet another possible cause is loose parts such as screws, bolts or bearings.
In addition, a clogged air filter can cause your air conditioning to make a noise similar to wheezing or whistling, while a refrigerant leak can make hissing or bubbling noises.
As with many air conditioner woes, the root cause of strange noises is often something that can be reduced by regular air conditioning maintenance.
Get in Touch with Our AC Experts at Bell Mechanical Services
If your air conditioning equipment is having problems, reach out to the professionals at Bell Mechanical Services for quality air conditioning repair in McKinney and Frisco. Whether it’s a bizarre noise, a leak or another issue, our skilled professionals can get your unit back up and running fast!
If your AC has a chronic issue and demands repeated 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 your home needs air conditioning installation in McKinney and Frisco, the first-rate crew at Bell Mechanical Services can help guide you through the process.