Summer’s approaching, and with it comes the sweltering heat. The last thing anyone wants is for their air conditioner to break down when the temperatures soar. At Cool Casa Heating & Air Conditioning, we’ve seen it all when it comes to AC problems during the hottest months of the year. To help you keep your home cool and comfortable, we’ve put together a list of the most common air conditioning issues we encounter during summer and tips on how to avoid them with routine care.
Low Refrigerant Levels
Your AC unit uses refrigerant to cool the air in your home. If the refrigerant level is too low, your air conditioner won’t be able to cool the air effectively, leading to higher temperatures inside and increased energy usage. Low refrigerant is often a sign of a leak in the system, which needs to be fixed by a professional.
How to Avoid It:
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Schedule Annual Maintenance: Having a professional technician check your refrigerant levels during routine maintenance can help prevent this issue.
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Watch for Warm Air: If your AC is blowing warm air or struggling to cool your home, it’s time to call an expert. Catching refrigerant leaks early can save you from costly repairs later.
Clogged Air Filters
Air filters are crucial for maintaining good air quality and optimal airflow through your system. Over time, they can get clogged with dust, dirt, and debris, restricting airflow and making your system work harder to cool the space.
How to Avoid It:
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Change Filters Regularly: The best way to prevent clogged filters is to change them every 1-3 months, especially during the summer months when your AC is running constantly. If you have pets or a lot of dust in your home, you might need to change them more frequently.
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Use High-Quality Filters: Investing in high-efficiency filters can help trap more dust and allergens, providing cleaner air while ensuring proper airflow.
Frozen Coils
Frozen evaporator coils are a common issue, especially during summer. When the coils freeze, they can’t absorb heat properly, and your AC may stop cooling altogether. This problem is often caused by restricted airflow (due to dirty filters) or low refrigerant.
How to Avoid It:
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Ensure Proper Airflow: Make sure your filters are clean, and ensure that vents and registers are not blocked by furniture or other obstructions.
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Check for Refrigerant Leaks: If you suspect low refrigerant, call a professional to check for leaks and recharge your system.
Drainage Problems
AC units remove moisture from the air, which then drains away through a condensate line. If the line becomes clogged or the drain pan is damaged, water can back up into the unit, leading to leaks, water damage, or even mold growth.
How to Avoid It:
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Inspect the Drain Line Regularly: Clear any visible debris from the condensate line to prevent blockages. You can also pour a small amount of bleach or vinegar down the drain line to prevent algae buildup.
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Check for Leaks: If you notice water pooling around your AC, it could be a sign of a drainage issue. Have it checked out by a professional before it leads to bigger problems.
Faulty Thermostat
A malfunctioning thermostat can cause your AC to run inefficiently or not cool your home properly. It may not communicate accurately with your AC, leading to inconsistent temperatures or the system running constantly, even when it’s unnecessary.
How to Avoid It:
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Calibrate Your Thermostat: Make sure your thermostat is calibrated correctly. If it’s a smart thermostat, ensure it’s set up properly and communicating with your HVAC system.
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Upgrade If Necessary: If your thermostat is old or frequently malfunctions, consider upgrading to a newer, more reliable model for better efficiency and control.
Electrical Problems
Electrical issues, such as tripped breakers, damaged wires, or faulty capacitors, are often to blame when your AC stops working. These issues can be dangerous and should always be handled by a professional technician.
How to Avoid It:
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Regular Professional Inspections: Schedule routine inspections to ensure all electrical components of your AC system are functioning correctly. This can help prevent serious issues and improve overall system longevity.
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Be Aware of Warning Signs: If your AC unit is making strange noises or you notice issues with power, don’t ignore them. Get professional help before the problem worsens.
Compressor Failure
The compressor is the heart of your AC system, responsible for circulating refrigerant. If the compressor fails, the system will stop working, and the unit will need to be repaired or replaced.
How to Avoid It:
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Maintain Regular Service: Routine maintenance, including cleaning and inspecting the compressor, can help extend its life.
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Avoid Overuse: Avoid running your AC at extreme temperatures for extended periods, which can put stress on the compressor.
How Cool Casa Heating & Air Conditioning Can Help
Routine maintenance is the best way to keep your air conditioning system in top shape and avoid the hassle of dealing with breakdowns in the middle of a heatwave. At Cool Casa Heating & Air Conditioning, we offer comprehensive maintenance services that include checking refrigerant levels, cleaning filters, inspecting coils, and ensuring your system is running efficiently.
Stay Cool with Preventive Care
Don’t wait until your AC breaks down to take action. By being proactive and scheduling regular maintenance, you can enjoy a cool, comfortable home all summer long without the worry of costly repairs. If you're ready to get your system checked or need advice on keeping your AC in top condition, contact Cool Casa Heating & Air Conditioning today!
Cool Casa Heating & Air Conditioning is dedicated to keeping your home and business comfortable year-round. With a skilled team specializing in expert HVAC installation, repair, and maintenance, they offer reliable, efficient, and affordable solutions for all your heating and cooling needs. Visit their website for more information.