Common AC Problems

Common air conditioning problems as reported by our customers are contained here along with common results.

There are several things you can check before you call in your HVAC Specialist which can save you money and aggravation.

No Air Conditioning, Unit Will Not Run

One of the most common air conditioning problems, my unit will not run. It can be very frustrating when you turn your thermostat to the desired temperature and then nothing happens. This is a common issue and there can be a number of causes. The best thing to do is to check several things first, yourself:

1. Make sure that there is power to your unit(s). If you have an emergency shutoff switch, it should be turned on. The wiring should be properly connected.
2. Check your breaker switch. Reset it, sometimes a power surge can trip the switch without the switch moving.
3. If your thermostat runs on batteries, then change the batteries.

Once you have confirmed that none of these are your problem, it is time to call in the professionals. It could still be something simple, but it could be a motor or other major component that would require specialized knowledge and tools. So when it comes to the nuts and bolts of your HVAC equipment, doing it yourself can cause much more costly damage.

My Air Conditioning is Blowing Hot Air

Also a common problem, my system is blowing hot air. This can be very upsetting to turn your air conditioning on just to have it blow out hotter air! A refrigerant leak can be the issue and this can be a serious concern and problems. Refrigerant does not get used up, it only reduces if there is a leak. Very few leaks on the coil are repairable (it depends on the location). Often coil leaks result in needing coil replacement and with an older system, it may make better sense to replace the entire unit. This is something your need a professional HVAC tech to look at for you.

The Air Conditioner is Leaking Water

This can often be a rather simple problem of a clogged drain pan and pipe assembly. It is normal to have condensation which should collect in the drain pan and then feed into the pipe. If the pipe becomes clogged then the drain pan will fill and overflow. Cleaning the drain pan and pipe will often solve this problem. Pipes can be difficult to clean and you may prefer to have a professional do that for you.

Loud Noise Coming From My AC

There are many components which make up your air conditioning system. Your system can make many abnormal sounds which can indicate problems. Here are some examples, which almost always requires a licensed tech to determine the cause.

• A loud screeching noise (metal on metal from your outside unit) can come from a fan motor or perhaps a fan blade that’s bent. If the bearings are worn, it may be the motor. This will require a professional technician to look at it.
• High Pitched Hissing sound coming from your outside unit. This may be the compressor and pressure is building up inside of it. You should turn off the air conditioner right away and have it serviced by a professional.
• Clanging or knocking sound coming from your outside unit. If you hear a sound like this, change your thermostat setting from “Auto” to “Fan”. If the sound stops at this setting, likely it is something physically hitting the outdoor fan, like a branch or debris of some kind. Check the outside unit for any visible obstruction. Contact your service professional before running your system again.
• Pronounced Squeal. This can be either a motor belt misaligned or possibly even a refrigerant leak. You will need to contact your HVAC Technician.
• Clicking sound and the unit will not turn on. An electrical problem can cause this to happen and will require a professional technician.
• Gurgling Sound. If condensation collects in the drain pan and if the drain pipes become clogged it can make this sound. You can see if the drain pan is full and clean out the pipes. Contact a professional technician if you are unable to get the pipes cleaned out or if the sound persists.

My Thermostat is Dead

A rather simple problem can be your thermostat. If your thermostat will not work, check the batteries first if it is battery operated. Sometimes changing the batteries will solve the problem. Thermostats do malfunction from time to time and may require replacement if batteries do not solve the problem.

In Conclusion

Whenever in doubt with heating or air conditioning problems, it is wise to contact your HVAC specialist. Your HVAC equipment represents a substantial investment and many problems can be made much worse by a well meaning do-it-yourselfer or someone who is not specifically skilled on this kind of equipment. Use only licensed technicians to work on your HVAC system.

Air Doctor Heating and Air is your best choice for licensed, accredited and professional service, repair and installation of all HVAC equipment. We offer 10 yr Parts and Labor Warranty on new installations and offer many Financing Options, long term, short term and 0% Interest for 60 months.