5 Common AC Repairs

Are you dealing with an air conditioner that's making odd sounds, constantly running, or cycling on and off too frequently? These issues could indicate underlying problems with your AC unit. Fortunately, many air conditioner problems are repairable, often for much less than the cost of replacing the entire unit.

At Comfort Experts, we frequently encounter AC issues that range from minor and inexpensive fixes to those requiring costly parts and specialized skills. Some of the most frequent repairs we handle include:

In this guide, we'll explore these common air conditioner problems, providing insights on how to address or prevent them effectively.

A significant number of service calls we receive are due to dirty or clogged air filters. Over time, air filters can become saturated with dust, dirt, pollen, and other particles, reducing airflow in your system. This can cause issues like unusual squealing noises or ice formation on your AC unit, often symptoms of a clogged air filter.

To prevent these problems and avoid the cost of a service call, it's crucial to regularly check your air filters. We recommend inspecting them monthly and replacing them when they appear dirty. For those with ductless mini-split systems, cleaning the filters monthly is advisable. While some high-efficiency filters can last up to six months, the standard lifespan for most air filters is around three months. If you're uncertain about the location of your air filter or need assistance selecting the appropriate replacement, an HVAC technician can help identify and recommend the right filter for your system.

Reduced cooling capacity and higher cooling costs can often be traced back to low refrigerant levels, which are usually due to leaks. These leaks can occur from worn-out connections, corrosion within the system, or physical damage to the refrigerant lines. Without sufficient refrigerant, your AC system struggles to transfer heat effectively, impacting its cooling performance.

Addressing refrigerant leaks is a job for skilled HVAC technicians. At Comfort Experts, our process involves detecting the leak, repairing or replacing the compromised components, and recharging the system with the proper type of refrigerant to ensure optimal performance.

The thermostat serves as the central control for your HVAC system, dictating when your heating and cooling units should activate. A malfunctioning thermostat that inaccurately reads the room temperature can lead to significant issues with your air conditioning unit, even though it is often one of the more cost-effective repairs.

To diagnose a faulty thermostat, check its batteries and ensure it responds to adjustments. You may need to consult the manufacturer’s guidance for recalibration. If recalibration doesn’t resolve the issue, the thermostat may need to be replaced to restore proper function to your HVAC system.

Frozen evaporator coils can arise from a few issues: insufficient airflow, depleted refrigerant levels, or a defective blower fan. The freezing of these coils halts the operation of your air conditioning system. To address this, you must shut down the system and let the coils thaw naturally. This is a critical first step before you can tackle the underlying problems, which often stem from dirt and dust accumulation due to neglected air filters.

To prevent future freeze-ups, replace your air filter regularly and consider having the coils professionally cleaned or doing it yourself if you have the necessary cleaning supplies and know-how. However, having a professional clean the coils is generally recommended to avoid potential damage.

The compressor, the central component of your air conditioning system, plays a vital role in moving refrigerant and facilitating the heat exchange process. Problems with the compressor can include electrical failures, motor issues, or refrigerant leaks. Addressing these issues usually demands the expertise of a professional and might necessitate replacing the compressor.

While air conditioning troubleshooting tips may not rectify compressor problems, regular maintenance or AC tune-ups—such as cleaning coils, inspecting electrical connections, and monitoring refrigerant levels—can aid in preventing these issues and extend the life of your AC system. Prioritizing regular AC maintenance, addressing small problems early, and considering an upgrade to a more efficient AC model with a dependable compressor are proactive steps toward ensuring the longevity and reliability of your air conditioning system.