How to Troubleshoot Common Air Conditioning Problems

Posted On: June 12, 2021

When you’re seeking relief from the summer heat, air conditioner problems can be a nightmare! If you know how to troubleshoot them, you can stay cool—or know when it’s time to call the pros for AC repair service for your air conditioning unit. But how to troubleshoot AC problems?

To help you with AC troubleshooting, here are some common air conditioner problems and what you can do to try to resolve them.

And if you need expert help troubleshooting and repairing AC problems, don’t hesitate to contact the HVAC experts at Genz-Ryan Plumbing, Heating, Air Conditioning. We can get your air conditioning running like new in no time!

Troubleshooting Your AC: Common Issues and Quick Fixes

Experiencing problems with your air conditioning system? Before calling a professional, there are several common issues you can check that might resolve the problem. Here’s a quick guide to troubleshooting your AC:

1. Thermostat Settings

Ensure the thermostat is set to the desired temperature.
Check if the batteries need replacing.

2. Air Filter Maintenance

A clogged air filter can restrict airflow and cause frost on the coil.
Clean or replace the filter regularly to maintain efficient operation.

3. Condenser Check

If the AC is blowing warm air, inspect the condenser for damage or blockages.
Clean the condenser or replace it if necessary.

4. Refrigerant Levels

Low refrigerant can lead to insufficient cooling.
Only a professional should check and refill refrigerant levels due to the precision required.

5. Frozen Evaporator Coil

A frozen coil indicates a potential issue with the system.
Ignoring this could result in compressor failure, so it’s important to address it promptly.

6. Airflow Issues

Weak airflow from vents suggests the system is overworking and not cooling effectively.
Check for blockages in ducts or vents.

7. Circuit Breakers

Inspect circuit breakers for any tripped switches.
Resetting them could restore power to the unit.

8. Water Leaks

Look for signs of water leaks around the unit, which may indicate a drainage issue.
Addressing leaks promptly can prevent water damage.

9. Mold and Mildew

A musty odor from vents could indicate mold or mildew growth.
Use an anti-bacterial treatment to clean and eliminate these contaminants.

By performing these checks, you might be able to identify and fix minor issues with your air conditioner, ensuring it runs efficiently and effectively. However, for complex problems like refrigerant levels or persistent issues, it’s best to consult a professional HVAC technician.

Checking the Air Conditioning for common problems infographic

What If My AC Blows Hot Air?

– Check the thermostat to make sure it’s not set to “heat.” Then, check to see if the thermostat’s batteries need to be replaced.

– If the thermostat seems to be working, check the circuit breaker for tripped breakers or blown fuses. If these steps don’t resolve the issue, it may be necessary to inspect the air conditioning unit for other potential problems.

What If My AC Short Cycles or Doesn’t Stop Running?

– Check the air filter. If it’s dirty, replace it or clean it.

– If the air filter is clean, check the evaporator coil (which is inside the air handler). If it’s frozen, turn off your AC and let the coil thaw. If the evaporator coil is not the issue, there may be other problems within the air conditioning unit that need to be addressed.

What If My AC Is Making Strange Noises?

– Check the indoor unit. If you see any leaks, call for professional repair service.

– If the indoor unit looks OK, check the outdoor unit. Remove any debris within two feet of the unit. If the noise persists, call for professional repair service. Strange noises can often be traced back to issues within the air conditioning unit, such as loose parts or failing components.

What If My AC Just Won’t Turn On?

– Check the circuit breaker for any tripped breakers.

– Then, check the thermostat to see if it’s on and if the settings are correct.

These are just some ways to troubleshoot common AC problems. If these tips don’t restore your AC or if you’d like some professional help troubleshooting and fixing your cooling system, just contact Genz-Ryan! If these steps don’t resolve the issue, it may be necessary to inspect the air conditioning unit for other potential problems.

How Air Conditioning Units Work

Understanding how AC systems work can be helpful whenever it’s time to troubleshoot air conditioning problems. Essentially, air conditioners work like refrigerators. They remove heat from the air to cool it down.

AC units have three main parts: the compressor, the condenser, and the evaporator. Here’s how these components work together to cool your home’s air:

In a cold, gaseous state, refrigerant fluid travels through the unit’s coils to the compressor.
The compressor squeezes the refrigerant, increasing its temperature and preparing it for the condenser.
The gaseous refrigerant reaches the condenser, where its temperature is lowered once again so that it forms a liquid.
This liquid is sent to the evaporator, where it is once again transformed into a gas. This gas removes heat from the air, and the cool air is circulated throughout a given space via a motorized fan.

Your air conditioner won’t work correctly when any of these elements malfunctions—or when other issues arise.

Refrigerant Leaks: Identifying and Fixing

Refrigerant leaks are a common issue in air conditioning systems that can lead to reduced cooling performance, higher energy bills, and even environmental harm. Identifying a refrigerant leak can be tricky, but there are some telltale signs to watch for:

Reduced cooling performance: If your AC unit isn’t blowing cold air like it used to, a refrigerant leak might be the culprit.
Hissing sounds near the AC unit: This noise can indicate a refrigerant leak.
Increased energy bills: A sudden spike in your energy bills can be a sign that your AC system is working harder due to a refrigerant leak.
Ice buildup on the evaporator coil: Ice on the coil can be a sign of low refrigerant levels.

To fix a refrigerant leak, follow these steps:

Inspect the AC unit and refrigerant lines: Look for signs of damage or corrosion.
Use a refrigerant leak detector: This tool can help pinpoint the source of the leak.
Check the drain line: Ensure there are no blockages or kinks that could be causing issues.

Once you’ve identified the source of the leak, it’s crucial to repair or replace the damaged component to prevent further refrigerant loss. Because handling refrigerants requires specialized training and equipment, it’s best to hire a professional HVAC technician to fix refrigerant leaks safely and effectively.

Frozen Coil: Causes and Solutions

A frozen coil is a common issue in air conditioning systems that can lead to reduced cooling performance and further damage if not addressed promptly. Several factors can cause a frozen coil:

Low refrigerant levels: Insufficient refrigerant can cause the coil to freeze.
Mechanical failures: Kinks in refrigerant lines or clogged filter dryers can lead to a frozen coil.
Outside temperature below 62°F: Running your AC when it’s too cold outside can cause the coil to freeze.
Dirty or clogged air filters: Restricted airflow can lead to a frozen coil.

To fix a frozen coil, follow these steps:

Check the refrigerant levels: If they’re low, you may need to top them off.
Inspect the refrigerant lines and filter dryers: Look for kinks or blockages that could be causing the issue.
Clean or replace the air filters: Ensure that air can flow freely through the system.
Adjust the thermostat settings: Make sure the settings are appropriate to prevent the coil from freezing.

If your coil is frozen, it’s essential to turn off the AC unit and contact a professional HVAC technician to thaw and repair it. This will help prevent further damage to your air conditioning system.

Weak Airflow: Troubleshooting and Fixes

Weak airflow is a common issue in air conditioning systems that can lead to reduced cooling performance and discomfort. Several factors can cause weak airflow:

Clogged air filters: Dirty filters can restrict airflow.
Dirty or blocked condenser coils: These can impede the cooling process.
Obstructed air ducts: Blockages in the ducts can reduce airflow.
Faulty blower motor or fan: These components are essential for moving air through the system.

To fix weak airflow, follow these steps:

Clean or replace the air filters: This is often the simplest and most effective solution.
Clean the condenser coils: Ensure they are free of dirt and debris.
Inspect and clear the air ducts: Make sure there are no obstructions.
Replace the blower motor or fan if necessary: If these components are faulty, they may need to be replaced.

Regular maintenance, such as cleaning the air filters and condenser coils, can help prevent weak airflow. Additionally, ensuring that the air ducts are properly sized and installed can optimize airflow and improve your air conditioning system’s performance.

Thermostat Sensor Problems: Diagnosis and Repair

Thermostat sensor problems can cause various issues with your air conditioning system, such as short cycling, mismatched room temperatures, and reduced cooling performance. Common causes of thermostat sensor problems include:

Dead batteries: This is a simple fix but often overlooked.
Tripped breakers or blown fuses: These can disrupt the thermostat’s function.
Faulty or damaged sensors: Sensors can wear out or get damaged over time.
Incorrect thermostat settings: Sometimes, the issue is as simple as incorrect settings.

To diagnose and repair thermostat sensor problems, follow these steps:

Check the batteries: Replace them if necessary.
Inspect the electrical connections and wiring: Look for damage or corrosion.
Check the thermostat settings: Ensure they are correct and adjust if needed.
Replace the faulty or damaged sensor: If the sensor is the issue, it may need to be replaced.

In some cases, thermostat sensor problems may require professional attention to diagnose and repair. Contacting a professional HVAC technician can ensure that the issue is resolved correctly and efficiently.

Failing Capacitors: Signs and Solutions

Failing capacitors are a common issue in air conditioning systems that can lead to reduced cooling performance and further damage if not addressed. Signs of failing capacitors include:

Reduced cooling performance: Your AC unit may struggle to blow cold air.
Increased energy bills: A failing capacitor can cause your system to work harder, leading to higher energy costs.
Humming or buzzing sounds from the AC unit: These noises can indicate a capacitor issue.
Tripped circuit breakers or blown fuses: These can be signs of electrical problems related to the capacitor.

To fix failing capacitors, follow these steps:

Inspect the capacitor: Look for signs of damage or wear.
Check the capacitor’s voltage rating: Ensure it matches the requirements of your AC unit.
Replace the capacitor: Use a new one of the same rating and type.

Regular maintenance, such as inspecting the capacitor and replacing it if necessary, can help prevent failing capacitors. Additionally, ensuring that your AC unit is properly sized and installed can optimize performance and reduce the risk of capacitor failure.

By following these troubleshooting steps and performing regular maintenance, you can keep your air conditioning system running smoothly and efficiently. If you encounter any issues that you can’t resolve on your own, don’t hesitate to contact a professional HVAC technician for assistance.

AC Troubleshooting, Repair & Maintenance Service in the Minneapolis-St. Paul Metro Area

The experienced AC contractors at Genz-Ryan can help with all of your cooling system needs. Whether you need help troubleshooting and repairing problems or it’s time for routine maintenance or a brand-new system, we’re ready to help!

Call (612) 223-6158 or schedule AC service online now. And don’t forget to check out our specials to save even more on your next system or service!