4 Common AC Problems and How to Avoid Them

It can be very frustrating when your house is hot and your air conditioner isn’t doing it’s one and only job. From an AC freeze-up to warm air blowing through your vents, there are a handful of common AC problems that you can avoid.

Here are 4 common reasons HVAC contractors get called for an air conditioner repair and how you can avoid them.

1. Low air flow

This is a very common air conditioner problem, and it is often due to a dirty filter. Your AC filter should be replaced at least once a year. If your filter is dirty, the amount of air running through your AC unit is limited, the unit has to work harder to reach the temperature you set on your thermostat, and you’ll likely see a larger electric bill. Save money on hiring an HVAC contractor for a simple and inexpensive fix!

You will also notice this problem when your air conditioner is getting old, there is an issue with the fan or a leak in the ductwork, so make sure to get your air conditioner checked by a professional if the problem persists.

2. AC running nonstop

This problem can be caused by a dirty filter, but it can also be a sign of something more serious. Unfortunately, there are a lot of reasons this could happen, but the most common include a dirty filter, dirty condenser/evaporator coils, a faulty thermostat, poor insulation, low refrigerant, or an aging unit. If you notice your unit running nonstop, shut it off and inspect the filter and cleanliness of the unit. If the problem is not obvious, call an HVAC contractor so they can inspect every possible culprit.

This can be avoided by changing the filter and getting regular maintenance and tune-ups. A poorly maintained unit will not last as long and will need a lot of repairs as it ages.

3. Water leaking from unit / AC freeze-up

If your filter is dirty, air cannot pass through fast enough which can cause the evaporator coils to freeze up. Refrigerant runs through these coils and requires enough air flow to absorb heat. A lack of air flow inhibits the coils from absorbing heat causing them to freeze and eventually drip water. Click here for more information.

If you notice water leaking from the unit, turn off the unit and check your filter. If your filter is clean, water leaking might be caused by a cracked drain pan or clogged condensate drain. This can be avoided by getting regular AC tune-ups.

4. Warm air coming through vents

If you notice warm air blowing through the vents, always check the thermostat first. The thermostat may have accidentally been set to “heat”, the batteries could be low, or the thermostat is set to “on” instead of “auto” which keeps the fan blowing air even when the air conditioner is not running.

Other causes of warm air coming from your air conditioner include a dirty filter, disconnected or leaky ducts, dirty condenser coils, and a refrigerant leak. All of these can be avoided with regular filter changes and regular AC tune-ups.

All 4 of these common air conditioning problems can be avoided by regularly changing your air conditioner’s filter and getting annual maintenance and cleaning from a professional HVAC contractor. Regular maintenance keeps your unit clean, running at peak performance, and will prolong the life of the unit.

In need of an HVAC contractor in the Denver Metro Area? CT Heating & Air offers air conditioning repair and maintenance services, and we have seen these AC problems many times. Call or contact us online today!