Summer weather is here, and with it comes the almost constant need for your air conditioning unit to keep things cool and comfortable indoors. Unfortunately, summer is also the most common time for AC issues to rear their ugly heads.
To prevent your cooling source from failing when you need it most, it’s important to take note of the most common air conditioning issues and learn how to fix them (or at least how to explain the problems when you call in for professional help)!
Here are the three most common air conditioning issues, what causes them, and how to solve the problem.
ISSUE 1: The unit won’t turn on at all
This happens more often than you might think, and although it’s frustrating, a completely non-functioning unit can sometimes be relatively easy to fix.
- The cause: The most probable cause of the air conditioning unit not turning on is a tripped breaker.
- The fix: If this is the case, simply turning on the switch at the panel should solve the problem.
- The cause: A faulty thermostat can also lead to the AC unit not turning on. Think of the thermostat as the control center for your HVAC system. If it isn’t communicating with the AC unit, your cooling source will fail to initiate.
- The fix: Sometimes a thermostat issue can be as simple as changing out a battery or performing a system reset. Other times, you might need to call in the professionals to perform some HVAC repairs.
ISSUE 2: The AC doesn’t provide cool air
There are a few factors that can lead to the air conditioning unit not cooling. To avoid hot, warm, or room-temperature air in the heat of the summer, you’ll want to check two things.
- The cause: An issue in the control board of the AC unit can lead to improper cooling.
- The fix: Depending on the severity of the issue, you might need a replacement control board or circuit board. This is an intricate job that should be performed by a trained HVAC technician. *NEVER attempt to touch or remove items from within the AC unit without professional guidance.
- The cause: Low refrigerant (or an “uncharged” unit) can also be to blame.
- The fix: Recharging the refrigerant in the system is necessary to get back to optimal efficiency. This should always be performed by a trained technician, as refrigerants can be hazardous to handle.
ISSUE 3: There is ice surrounding the unit
Icy buildup often happens with units that haven’t been well maintained, or that have been inactive for a while. This happens often, and is one of the most common calls we receive for air conditioning repairs.
- The cause: The most likely cause for icy buildup around your AC unit is a faulty or clogged air filter. When your air filter becomes clogged with residue or buildup, the air conditioning has to work double-time to push air through. When the air is cooled too much inside your unit before the air moves through the duct system, it can freeze on internal parts and even cause ice to build up outside the unit.
- The fix: A professional repair is needed to remove the icy buildup from the unit. Many might attempt to take a DIY approach to this common problem, but we have seen far too many units completely destroyed due to damage from ice picks and unprofessional ice clearing from the internal components of the air conditioning.
Air conditioning maintenance and repair in Evansville, IN
Dealing with air conditioning issues isn’t cool (pun intended). Don’t delay in getting your AC unit repaired or maintained. Call the local experts at Baylor Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc. Call (812) 425-8435 to schedule an appointment today.
