Summer is right around the corner, and as we all know, it can get pretty hot and humid here in Buffalo, NY. Throughout the middle of the summer, most homeowners have their A/C unit running almost nonstop. Because the system is working so hard to cool your home each and every day, this is, unfortunately, the time that it is most likely to break down.
Waiting around for an emergency repair appointment is no fun, especially when it’s 80+ degrees outside. That’s why it’s crucial to understand the basic components of your A/C system and why it may be malfunctioning. This will help you detect and avoid potential problems that leave you and your family without cooling relief on the hottest summer days.
Below are the 10 most common reasons that your air conditioner isn’t working properly:
1. Dead Thermostat Batteries
In some cases, there is actually nothing wrong with the air conditioning unit itself. If your thermostat is not displaying anything, this is likely because the batteries are dead. Swapping out the thermostat batteries should be your first line of defense when the screen is black and you’re not sure why.
Another thing to check for is that your thermostat is set to “cool.” If not, the air conditioner will be unable to cool your home properly.
2. Indoor Disconnect Switch Is Off
Another issue that has a very simple fix is the disconnect switch being shut off. Depending on where the A/C unit is located in your home, someone or something may have bumped it and shut the disconnect switch off.
To fix this problem, simply set the disconnect switch to “on” before taking any further steps.
3. Outdoor Disconnect Switch Is Off
Yes- There is another disconnect switch. This is because building codes mandate that switches are installed next to your air conditioner’s indoor and outdoor units. The outdoor switch may have been off for a number of reasons, but luckily for you, it is very easy to reset if needed.
4. Tripped Circuit Breaker
One of the first things to check if your A/C system is not working is the breaker box. If one of the breakers that connect to your HVAC system tripped, this is the issue. Reset it and try the A/C again.
Breakers often trip when the circuit is overloaded. If you reset it and it trips again, try shutting off other equipment that may be contributing to the problem. The best plan if all else fails is to call an HVAC expert to come and diagnose the issue.
5. Blown Fuse
Another common reason your A/C may be failing is due to a blown fuse. You will need to have a blown fuse replaced before the unit is able to function properly. Unless you have training in this type of stuff, we recommend calling an HVAC company to fix this problem.
6. Blown Transformer
Your air conditioner is unable to operate with a bad transformer, so it will need to be replaced ASAP if that is the case.
Another factor that may play a role here is a bad contactor in your outdoor A/C unit. This is what usually leads to a blown transformer, so you’ll need to have that switched out as well. Wiring issues can also cause this problem. It is best to have an HVAC professional come out to identify the root of the problem if you are unsure.
7. Starting Components Are Broken
Most air conditioning units depend on at least two capacitors inside the outdoor unit. One is technically the “start” capacitor and the other is the “run” capacitor. These parts hold power and allow your air conditioner to turn on and stay on.
Just like everything else, capacitors do not last forever. Once your capacitors fail, they will need to be replaced by an HVAC technician.
8. Dirty Coils
Sometimes, even when your thermostat is set to “cool,” the air coming out of the vents does not feel cool. In this case, a dirty coil might be the culprit.
There are two A/C coils, one being located in your outdoor unit and one in your indoor unit. If you don’t have your A/C system serviced regularly, these coils can get very dirty over time.
Eventually, the dirt buildup on the coils will take away your system’s ability to remove heat from your home. At that point, the same air will continuously circulate, regardless of what temperature you have the thermostat set at.
9. Dirty Filter
If you have not had your filter changed or cleaned regularly, it’s probably extremely dirty. Over time, filters accumulate so much dust and gunk that they restrict airflow to your A/C system. Without proper airflow, the unit can freeze up, and ice will form on the coils. This will affect how efficiently your A/C unit is cooling your home.
Although a dirty filter is the most common, there are a few other reasons your coil might freeze up. These include:
- Refrigerant leaks
- Improper refrigerant charge
- Closing multiple supply vents
- Obstructed return or supply vents
10. Damaged HVAC Components
Mistakes and accidents happen… that’s life. If you have checked everything else on this list and can’t seem to figure out what is wrong with your air conditioning unit, briefly check the HVAC components. Maybe a wire was pulled, or a line was damaged… Who knows! It is worth it to take the extra few minutes to double-check.
What Is The Best Solution to Avoid These Problems?
Simple answer- have your HVAC system serviced regularly!
Most of the problems listed above are fully preventable. If you have an HVAC professional perform routine maintenance checks on your system, you can usually avoid the headache from a malfunctioning air conditioner. A thorough inspection and tune-up should identify smaller problems before they turn into expensive repairs.
So if you’re ready to schedule your A/C tune-up before these problems occur, the HVAC team at Cellino Plumbing, Heating & Cooling would be happy to help! You’ll rest easy knowing that your A/C system will keep you and your family cool and comfortable in the summer heat!
Give us a call today to schedule your A/C tune-up!
