Air conditioning issues can be frustrating, especially during the hot summer months when you rely on the system to provide relief from the heat. So, when your A/C isn’t working properly, life becomes frustrating and very difficult!
The problem is that air conditioning units are not a simple DIY fix, and most problems require the attention of a licensed professional. Understanding the common issues and their potential causes, however, can help you troubleshoot the problem and know when to call in the experts. Here are the most common problems with air conditioning units and how to address them.
A/C Won’t Turn On
If your air conditioner won’t turn on, there are a few basic things you can check before calling a professional. First, ensure that the remote control has new batteries and is working correctly. Next, confirm that there is power to the building by checking other electrical devices. If everything else is working, check your fuse box to see if a circuit breaker has tripped. Always exercise caution when dealing with electricity to avoid safety hazards.
A/C Is Leaking
Leaking can be a common issue with air conditioning units, both indoor and outdoor. An outdoor unit leaking water is often due to hot weather, but it could also mean that the filters need cleaning or the refrigerant levels are low. If the leak is from the inside unit, it’s likely due to a clogged drain line or a blocked filter. In either case, a professional should address these issues to prevent further damage and ensure the system runs efficiently.
Air Conditioner Not Blowing Cold Air
When your air conditioner isn’t blowing cold air, there are several potential causes. For ducted systems, first, check to see if the problem affects other rooms. If not, the issue might be localised. Here are some common causes that apply to both ducted and split system units.
- Tripped Circuit Breaker: Check your fuse box to ensure the air conditioner’s circuit breaker hasn’t tripped.
- Blocked Filter or Drain: Dirty filters and blocked drains can restrict airflow and reduce cooling efficiency.
- Thermostat Settings: Make sure the thermostat is set correctly and functioning properly.
- Low Refrigerant Levels or Leaks: Both of these problems require the attention of a qualified air-conditioning technician.
- Ice Build-Up: Ice on the coils can block airflow and reduce cooling. This usually indicates a deeper issue, such as a refrigerant leak or blocked airflow, and should be handled by a technician.
Ducted Heating and Cooling Vents Not Working
If the vents for your ducted system aren’t working, it could be due to loose or damaged ductwork. This is often caused by animals like possums getting into the ducts and causing damage. Loose or disconnected ducting can significantly reduce the efficiency of your ducted system and should be inspected and repaired by a professional to ensure proper airflow, heating, and cooling throughout your home.
Call the Experts
While it’s helpful to understand the potential causes of common air conditioning problems, many issues require the expertise of a licensed professional. Attempting DIY fixes can often lead to more significant problems and safety hazards. If you’re experiencing any of the issues mentioned above, it’s best to contact our qualified technicians, who can diagnose and repair your A/C system properly.
Keeping your A/C unit well-maintained with regular professional servicing can prevent many of these issues and keep your home comfortable all year round.
