5 Common AC Problems and How to Fix Them

There’s no worse feeling than having to deal with a broken air conditioning unit during the unbearable summer heat.

The good news is there are options to circumvent those pesky air conditioner problems. With a few simple DIY tricks and some routine maintenance by a trained technician, you can ensure that your AC unit is always ready for the worst heatwave.

Summer isn't here yet, but that doesn't mean you ignore your air conditioner. Here are common AC problems and how to resolve them.

Common AC Problems

5. Dirty or Clogged Air Filters

Dirty or clogged air filters are the most common AC problem. Luckily they are the easiest AC issue to deal with.

You can solve this air conditioning problem by simply changing your air filter. Not all air filters are the same so you will want to turn to the manufacturer’s instructions for changing your specific filter.

If you are unsure whether your not you need a new air filter, you can simply test your current air filter by holding it up to a light and seeing if any visible light passes through. If you are unable to see any light then it’s time to clean or replace your filter.

Another benefit of keeping up with your air filter maintenance is that it reduces the chances of your air conditioning unit freezing over.

4. Refrigerant Leakage

Another major AC problem you might run into is a refrigerant leak. A refrigerant leak can result in a loss of cooling power, coils freezing over, or even high electric bills.

Refrigerant Vs Coolant

Just like your vehicle needs coolant to remove the excess heat, your air conditioner requires refrigerant to transfer heat to keep cool air blowing. Unlike coolant, you can’t simply add more refrigerant to your AC unit to fix it.

If you have determined that your AC unit is leaking contacting a trained technician is the next logical step. A technician will repair any leak, test the repair, and then charge the system with the proper amount of refrigerant.

3. Thermostat on the Fritz

This common air conditioning problem comes from not the AC unit, but from the thermostat senor controlling it.

When troubleshooting air conditioner issues, the thermostat should be your first stop. To properly reset your thermostat simply turn your AC unit off, locate and flip the circuit breaker for your AC unit, wait at least 30 seconds, and finally flip the breaker back to the on position.

2. AC Drainage Backed up

Your AC unit’s job is not only to cool the air but to dehumidify it also. If you live somewhere that is humid year-round then another common AC problem you will run into is clogged drainage.

Your AC unit should never leak. Should the drainpipe become clogged, inspected the drain line to ensure that condensation is flowing properly. An unidentified drainage issue will result in the growth of mold.

1. Compressor

From dirty coils to too much refrigerant, there are several underlying reasons why your compressor may stop working properly.

One of the most important working parts of your AC unit is the compressor. Problems with your compressor can develop when your AC unit isn’t serviced by a trained technician regularly. According to research from the EIA, only 42% of US homes have their air conditioning unit serviced annually. Of those who had their AC's serviced, 40% of those air conditioners have an extended life span.

To avoid a failing compressor in swelter heat you need a reliable technician who can get the job done right.