A reliable air conditioning (AC) system makes your home comfortable during hot weather, keeps energy bills manageable, and provides clean and fresh air. Without care, though, your AC can run into trouble, leading to expensive repairs or even replacement. Fortunately, our guide on how to prevent air conditioning issues explains everything you need to know about maintenance.
Common Air Conditioning Issues
Problems happen, so identifying the cause helps you prevent worse problems later. Here are some issues you may encounter:
Uneven Cooling
Sometimes, certain rooms feel hotter or cooler than others. This imbalance means restricted airflow. The culprits may be dirty filters, blocked vents, or poorly designed ductwork. For instance, furniture or curtains might obstruct the vents. Other times, the ducts could leak air, reducing the system’s efficiency.
AC Blowing Warm Air
There’s nothing more frustrating on a hot day than an air conditioner pushing out warm air. This problem typically stems from refrigerant leaks, a dirty condenser coil, or even issues with the thermostat settings. If you see ice forming on the outdoor unit, it likely has low refrigerant levels. This issue can’t fix itself and often requires professional intervention. Setting your thermostat to “cool” mode can save you from too much stress before calling a technician.
Hearing Strange Noises
Don’t ignore your AC if it starts producing unusual sounds, such as rattling, buzzing, or squealing. Rattling could mean loose screws or debris within the unit. On the other hand, buzzing noises could indicate electrical problems, while squealing might signal motor issues.
If you hear rattling and notice reduced airflow, the problem might be more mechanical than electrical. Pay close attention to the sounds you hear and their location, as this information is helpful when explaining the issue to a professional.
Noticing Leaks and Pooling Water
If your AC drips water or you see a puddle under the unit, it indicates clogged drain lines or refrigerant problems. For instance, algae can accumulate in the drain line over time, blocking the flow of water. Ignoring pooling water can result in bigger problems, such as water damage to your home.
Frequent Cycling
Short cycling, where your AC turns on and off repeatedly, is problematic. Constant restarting wastes energy, accelerates wear, and makes the system prone to overheating. The issue might stem from an oversized system, a thermostat in the wrong location, or clogged components. If you notice your AC cycles excessively yet doesn’t cool rooms, it’s time to inspect the settings and components.
Preventive Maintenance Tips
Dirty air filters block airflow and force the AC to work harder than necessary. Restricted airflow could damage internal components over time. You can prevent this air conditioning issue by replacing filters every one to three months, depending on usage. You can replace them more frequently during warm seasons.
Debris, such as leaves, grass, or dirt, can block the outdoor unit, reducing its ability to function. Clear the area around it, and give it at least two feet of space to support airflow. For instance, after lawn mowing, remove dirt or grass that may have landed on the condenser. Additionally, giving the fins a gentle rinse with clean water once a season removes grime.
The thermostat controls the AC’s settings, so don’t overlook it during maintenance. Replace its batteries every year to ensure it runs smoothly, and double-check its temperature and mode settings. For example, some programmable thermostats unintentionally switch to energy-conserving settings, limiting cooling schedules. If temperatures seem inconsistent, recalibrate the thermostat to restore balance.
The unit’s fan and motor likely run frequently during periods of warm weather. Over time, a lack of lubrication causes these parts to overheat or deteriorate. Applying lubricant to these parts helps them move freely, reduces strain, and prevents extensive damage.
Seasonal AC Maintenance Checklist
Seasonal habits keep your AC efficient and reliable throughout the year. Here are the best practices to follow:
Spring Tune-Up
Prepare your AC for the heat. Clean the condenser coils to remove dirt and dust that can block airflow. Also, test the system early in the season to catch and address issues before temperatures rise.
Summer Cooling Tip
Keep your AC efficient during the hottest months of the year. Use ceiling fans to circulate cool air and ease the strain on the air conditioner. Check vents for obstructions, and move furniture or curtains to maximize airflow. Keep the outdoor unit free of debris, especially after mowing the lawn or during windy weather that kicks up debris.
Fall Preparations
Transition your system for cooler months. Cover the outdoor unit to protect it from falling leaves and debris, but don’t completely block the unit in order to support airflow. You should also inspect and seal leaks in the ducts. Lastly, clear the drain lines to prevent blockages that might cause water damage during the off-season.
Winter Protection
Shield your outdoor AC unit from dirt, snow, and freezing conditions. Cover the unit with a breathable material to block debris while allowing airflow. Additionally, check for snow or ice buildup throughout winter, and remove it promptly. Use this season to tackle repairs or upgrade outdated parts.
When To Call a Professional
Keeping your AC running requires professional expertise. If your AC fails to cool your home, it could stem from low refrigerant levels, a compressor issue, or a clogged evaporator coil. For example, if the vents blow warm air even after adjusting the thermostat, you’ll need a technician to check for leaks or mechanical malfunctions.
Unusual odors, such as a burning or musty smell, indicate electrical trouble or mold in the ductwork, respectively. Ignoring unpleasant smells can lead to health and safety concerns. Persistent leaking water or refrigerant can reduce system efficiency and harm the environment. Professionals can pinpoint and mitigate the problem.
When your AC keeps tripping the circuit breaker or produces buzzing and sparking noises, it is experiencing electrical issues. Overloaded circuits or failing wiring disrupts cooling and creates fire risks. A licensed HVAC technician can safely inspect and repair these problems without compromising your system.
Even if your AC seems to run well, regular maintenance prevents unexpected breakdowns. HVAC technicians offer AC cleaning services and general upkeep, such as checking refrigerant levels and recalibrating the system.
Choosing a Trusted Technician
With decades of experience serving Northern Virginia, Oasis Heating, A/C & Refrigeration offers reliable solutions to keep your home comfortable all year. Our team provides thorough servicing, from expert repairs to AC cleaning, tailored to your system’s needs. Reach out today to get your air conditioning system back in shape!
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