There’s nothing worse during the dog days of summer than a broken-down air conditioner. If your AC unit is not working, there are several common reasons for system malfunctions.
Babe Plumbing, Heating and Air is the leading provider of air conditioning services in Chaska, MN, and we’d like to share the most common cooling system problems we encounter during hot weather.
1. Thermostat Issues
The thermostat functions as the “brain” of your HVAC system. Its primary job is to tell your air conditioner when to cycle on or off. Your system won’t run consistently when the thermostat isn’t properly sending signals.
Some of the most common thermostat problems include:
- Incorrect settings: Make sure your thermostat is set to “cool” and an appropriate temperature.
- Dead batteries: Many run on batteries that need occasional replacement.
- Sensor malfunctions: When a thermostat sensor misreads the room’s temperature, the unit cannot run effectively.
- Wiring issues: Loose or damaged wires disrupt communication with the cooling system.
2. Dirty Air Filters
Every air conditioning system depends on unrestricted airflow. Clogged air filters make the system work harder to force air through the system. In addition to inefficiency, the resulting overheating can cause safety shutdowns.
The extra work always leads to higher energy consumption, which means higher utility bills. The greater wear and tear also shortens the lifespan of your system. Overheating comes along with frozen evaporator coils that impair cooling power. Another side effect is poor indoor air quality, which makes allergies and respiratory issues worse.
Check the system air filter every 30 days and replace or clean it at least every 90 days.
3. Refrigerant Leaks
If your AC unit is not working, it could have low refrigerant levels. Refrigerant runs through the coils and lines of your air conditioner to absorb and remove heat. Low or leaking refrigerant can cause serious system damage if not repaired promptly.
Some of the signs of refrigerant leaks include:
- Insufficient cooling in all indoor spaces
- Hissing sounds from small leaks in refrigerant lines.
- Ice or frost on evaporator coils
Refrigerants are hazardous chemicals and require expert handling. Contact an HVAC system professional immediately for this problem.
4. Frozen Evaporator Coils
Frozen evaporator coils block proper cooling. In addition to dirty air filters and low refrigerant discussed above, look for any blocked air vents that restrict circulation. An expert technician will also inspect the system’s blower fan for problems. The blower fan forces air through all of your ductwork; if it has problems, coils can freeze up, and cooling functions will fail.
If you see ice or frost on the coils, turn your system off completely. Let the coils thaw out over several hours before further troubleshooting. When coils refreeze, call on your HVAC technician for help.
5. Blocked Condenser Unit
When your AC unit is not working, check the condenser, which is part of your outdoor cooling unit. That component releases the heat and moisture absorbed indoors into the outside air. Of course, this part of your system also requires unrestricted airflow.
Look around your outside unit for accumulated debris like leaves, dirt, vegetation, or grass clippings blocking the vent openings. Look at the fins to be sure they are not bent or damaged. Regularly wash the outdoor unit gently with your garden hose, and keep at least two feet of clearance open around it at all times.
6. Electrical Control Failure
This problem can stop your air conditioner from turning on or cause it to cycle on and off erratically. Some of the issues include:
- Worn-out capacitors that stop the compressor and fans from starting
- Damaged contactors disrupting electrical flow
- Loose or corroded wiring leading to inconsistent operation
- Tripped circuit breakers shutting down power to the system
Electrical problems present significant hazards. Always call on a qualified expert for assistance.
Babe Plumbing, Heating and Air Can Help With Cooling System Trouble in Chaska, MN
Babe Plumbing, Heating and Air is the most trusted HVAC system and plumbing service provider in Chaska and across our region. Our expert technicians deliver expert:
- Air conditioning repair: Our diagnostic technology and expertise support quick assessments and prompt repairs.
- Air conditioning maintenance: We provide regularly scheduled preventative care for maximum performance and to extend your system’s lifespan.
- Air conditioning installation: Count on us for professional installation of energy-efficient cooling systems.
If your AC unit is not working in Chaska, MN, Babe Plumbing, Heating and Air is here to keep you cool and comfortable all summer long. Our local experts understand the demands our climate places on our indoor comfort systems in every season. Contact us today for fast, reliable HVAC system solutions!