We’ve all been there. It’s a hot summer day, and you just got home after a long day. Perhaps you were looking forward to relaxing in your cool living room, but were instead met with warm, stuffy air. You check your air conditioner and let out a frustrated sigh. For one reason or another, it’s not working correctly.
Does this situation sound familiar? Don’t worry. You’re not alone. Many homeowners in Illinois have to deal with common AC problems every year. The good news is, that you can often troubleshoot these issues yourself before calling in the professionals.
In this article, we’ll walk you through some common AC problems and how to fix them. Let’s get started!
Your Air Conditioner Won’t Turn On
First, let’s tackle the issue of your AC unit not turning on at all. This is a frustrating problem, especially when it’s really hot outside. Here’s what you’ll need to do:
● Check the Thermostat: Make sure that your thermostat is set to “cool” and that the temperature is set lower than the current room temperature. Sometimes, the issue is as simple as the thermostat settings.
● Power Supply: Check whether your AC unit is actually getting power. Look at your circuit breaker panel and reset any tripped breakers. Also, make sure that the switch near your indoor unit is turned on.
● Replace the Batteries: If your thermostat is battery-operated, try replacing the batteries. If these solutions don’t work, you might want to consider calling a professional to come and check out your AC system.
Poor Airflow
If you notice insufficient airflow coming from your AC unit, there are a few things you’ll want to check on. Don’t panic! Usually, fixing poor airflow problems is pretty straightforward.
● Air Filters: Dirty air filters can block airflow. Check your filters and replace them if they’re dirty. During the summer months, it’s a good idea to replace your air filters every 30-60 days.
● Blocked Vents: Make sure that all vents and registers are open and not blocked by pieces of furniture. Blocked vents can reduce airflow pretty significantly, but at least this issue is easy to fix.
● Ductwork Issues: Inspect your ductwork for any visible leaks or disconnections. If you find any, sealing them with duct tape can be a temporary fix. It’s always best to have a professional handle extensive repairs, though.
Leaking Water
Water leaks around your AC unit can cause serious problems. If you notice that your air conditioner is leaking, don’t ignore it! Here are some troubleshooting steps to follow before calling a professional:
● Clear Clogged Condensate Drain Line: The most common cause of water leaks is a clogged condensate drain line. You can try to clear it using a wet/dry vacuum.
● Check the Drain Pan: Inspect the drain pan under your AC unit. If it’s cracked, it may need to be replaced. A professional HVAC technician will be able to help you out with this.
● Low Refrigerant: Sometimes, leaks can be due to low refrigerant levels. You’ll need to call a professional to fix this particular problem, but that’s probably for the best anyway.
Strange Noises
Is your AC unit making strange noises? This may sound like something out of a horror movie, but it’s a real problem. Depending on the specific type of noise your unit is making, it could be a sign of a few different problems:
● Rattling or Banging: This could be due to loose parts. Turn off the unit and check for any loose screws or parts that may be banging around.
● Hissing or Bubbling: These noises often indicate a refrigerant leak. This is not something you can fix yourself, so make sure to call a professional if you hear these sounds.
● Squealing: A high-pitched squealing noise can be a sign of a problem with the blower motor or the fan. This usually requires professional attention as well.
Your AC is Running Constantly
If your AC unit seems to have a mind of its own (and runs all the time without actually cooling your home effectively), you might need to:
● Check the Thermostat Settings: Make sure that it’s not set to “on” instead of “auto.” The “on” setting keeps the fan running continuously, while the “auto” setting only runs the fan when cooling is needed.
● Clean the Coils: Dirty evaporator or condenser coils can make your unit work harder than it needs to. Turn off the power and clean the coils carefully. You can also have a professional do this for you.
● Insulate Your Home: Poor insulation can cause your AC system to work overtime. Make sure that your windows and doors are sealed properly. You can always add more insulation if you need to.
Tips for Preventing Common AC Problems
You should keep these tips in mind if you want to make sure that your AC unit continues to run as efficiently as possible:
● Regular Maintenance: Schedule regular maintenance checks with a professional. This will be the best way to catch and fix issues early.
● Replace Filters Regularly: As mentioned earlier, changing your filters every 30-60 days during the summer can prevent quite a few problems.
● Keep the Unit Clean: Keep the area around your outdoor unit free of dirt, grass, and stray leaves. You should also clean the coils regularly.
Final Thoughts
While some common AC problems can be fixed with a little troubleshooting, sometimes it’s best to call in a professional. If you’ve tried these steps and your AC unit still isn’t working — or if you suspect a more serious issue like a refrigerant leak — you shouldn’t hesitate to call an expert for help.
Remember, your air conditioner is a big investment. It doesn’t just keep you and your family members cool during the summer — it helps your home run efficiently, too. Taking good care of your AC system can save you a lot of money and stress in the long run. That’s why it’s so important to check on it and get maintenance done regularly!