Is your AC acting unusual? There's a good chance it’s trying to tell you something.
The warning signs of an air conditioner’s problem can tell a lot about the kind of issue the system is suffering from. Whether it’s odd noises, leaks, freezing up or another breakdown—it all points to a particular culprit and requires a distinct fix. By knowing the specific symptoms, it's more likely that you'll be able to narrow down 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 annual air conditioning maintenance. That’s because a routine AC 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 repair. This helps locate potential problems before they cause malfunctions or other issues.
Here are some of of the common AC problems and the signs you may see:
Why Is My Air Conditioner Leaking?
Air conditioning leaking water can be a common issue. One of the most common causes of an air conditioner leak is a blocked condensate drain line. The condensate drain line is responsible for removing unwanted moisture from the air conditioning system. When this line becomes clogged with dirt, debris or mold, water can back up and start to come out of the unit.
Another possible reason 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. Additionally, a refrigerant leak or a malfunctioning pump can also cause water to leak from an AC unit.
It's crucial to address a leaking air conditioner promptly to avoid damage to your home and ensure that your air conditioning system is running efficiently. Professional air conditioner maintenance, including changing the air filter, taking a look at the condensate drain line and inspecting the unit for damage can help prevent leaks from occurring.
Why Is My Air Conditioner Freezing Up?
If your AC is freezing up, it could be due to a variety of reasons. One common cause of a frozen air conditioner is restricted airflow, which can be caused by a blocked air filter, obstructed ductwork or closed vents. This leads to a buildup of cold air in the evaporator coil, causing it to freeze.
One more 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 cracked insulation can also result in 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 and allow it to thaw completely. When the system has thawed, assess the air filter, ductwork and refrigerant levels to see if something is broken. Regular maintenance, including changing the air filter and having the system inspected annually by an expert.
Is My Air Conditioner Supposed to Be Loud?
If your air conditioner is making loud noises, it could be a sign that your AC needs service. One common cause of a loud air conditioner is a malfunctioning fan motor or a failing fan belt. The racket can 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 could have a dirty condenser coil, which can prevent airflow and cause the system to work harder, resulting in more noise. Additionally, a broken or old compressor can also cause loud noises from the air conditioner.
Why Is My AC System Not Blowing Cold Air?
One common cause of an air conditioning system not producing 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 plausible reason for this problem is a refrigerant leak.
Low refrigerant levels may also cause the evaporator coil to become too cold and freeze, which can result in a lack of cool air coming from your air conditioner. Also, a faulty compressor or motor can also cause an air conditioner to not produce cool air. To rectify this, it's important to examine the air filter and replace 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 correct this, check the electrical panel and reset any tripped breakers or switch out any blown fuses.
Another possible cause is a malfunctioning thermostat, which can keep the air conditioner from turning on. If that's the case, check the thermostat and substitute it with a new one, if necessary. In addition, a malfunctioning compressor, motor or capacitor can stop the air conditioner from turning on. If that's the situation, 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 running louder than they should, occasionally they also make peculiar noises.
One typical cause of weird noises is a malfunctioning fan motor or a worn-out fan belt. These two issues can produce scraping, squealing or grinding noises. Another commonly observed cause is loose parts such as screws, bolts or bearings.
Additionally, a dirty air filter can cause whistling or wheezing noises from an air conditioner, while a refrigerant leak can produce hissing or bubbling noises.
As with a lot of air conditioner woes, the root cause of odd noises is often something that can be reduced by regular air conditioning maintenance.
Call the Trusted AC Experts at Rescue Heating & Air
If your air conditioning equipment is having problems, contact the professionals at Rescue Heating & Air for quality air conditioning repair in Alice. Whether it’s a weird noise, a leak or another issue, our skilled specialists can get your unit back up and running fast!
If your AC has a chronic issue and requires constant or very expensive repairs to keep it going, it may be more beneficial to replace your aging AC rather than constantly pay repair bills. If you need air conditioning installation in Alice, the high-quality crew at Rescue Heating & Air can help guide you through the process.