AC Troubleshooting: How To Fix 10 Common Issues

Top 10 AC Problems and How to Fix Them

Below are the common problems your AC is likely to develop and how to fix them.

1. Incorrect Thermostat Setting

It might surprise you to find that your room temperature is not what your thermostat is displaying. For instance, it may be 68 degrees Fahrenheit. However, your thermostat is showing 72 degrees Fahrenheit. What does that mean?

Probably, your thermostat is not clean or it's not located in a good place. Check that you haven’t placed your thermostat sensor in direct sunlight.

You don't need to worry if your thermostat displays the wrong temperature. Some people think this means their air conditioner is outdated. The solution to this problem is ensuring you clean your thermostat frequently and make sure it is in the right location to enable it to function correctly.

2. Drainage

One of the functions of your air conditioner is getting rid of excess moisture from your home. Do you ever wonder where the moisture goes after it's out of the air?

The moisture goes to the drain pan through a drain line. However, your drain line may fail to function correctly due to a clog in the pipe. Therefore, you need to periodically check the drainage system to ensure it's not clogged, especially when it's humid outside. You can also consider taking it to a technician if the problem persists.

3. Turning On and Off

How can you know that your air conditioner is oversized? It's easy. Just take note of how frequently it turns off and on. According to AC technicians at Ambient Edge, this problem is called short cycling. It can lead to the compressor and fan wearing out. Furthermore, the wires can be subject to corrosion, thus reducing efficiency.

If your air conditioning turns off after 15 minutes here is what to do:

• Try setting the thermostat to a lower temperature.
• Check if your thermostat has a timer setting you can adjust.
• Relocate the thermostat to be farther away from windows and vents.

4. Dirty AC Filter

One common problem that reduces how well the AC operates is accumulation of dirt and debris. Clean it frequently to remove any clogging. The frequency of cleaning may depend on how often you have it on. Those who have pets in their home are likely to have it on often to keep a comfortable room temperature for their pets.

5. Warm Air

If you don't seal your home properly, warm air is likely to get in and affect how your AC operates. To correct this problem, seal doors and windows so that warm air cannot find its way inside. You should check both the inside and outside of your house for any cracks or gaps that could be causing an air leak.

6. Your Air Conditioning Fails to Turn On

This is probably the worst problem to experience. Your home is getting warm and the AC doesn’t start up. Before calling a repair technician, check your power source.

The problem could be as simple as a blown fuse. Once you’re sure the unit is receiving power, try to turn it on again. If the problem persists, then you should consider seeking the help of a technician.

7. Noise From the AC

The only noise you should expect to hear from your AC is when it’s turning on or off. However, if you realize something isn’t operating smoothly, this could be a sign that your AC is not in good condition.

The noise mostly comes from the fan's mortar, especially when it is outdated. You should, therefore, ensure that you troubleshoot to diagnose the problem. You can seek the assistance of a technician to help you sort it out.

8. Poor Ventilation

Is the AC not functioning the way you want it? The problem could be your ventilation. You need to ensure that the AC has a smooth inflow and outflow of air. You can do that by moving or removing any obstacles that can prevent the flow, e.g., furniture blocking airflow. Keep vents open and clear of obstructions.

9. AC Not Blowing Out Hot Air

Does your air conditioner appear to work but your home still feels too warm? Check your thermostat. You can fix this issue by ensuring that the thermostat temperature is at least 5 degrees lower than the room temperature.

10. Broken Thermostat

If your air conditioner doesn’t turn on, the problem could be a broken thermostat. A broken thermostat might display a blank screen. If you have a battery powered thermostat display, try replacing the battery to rule that out first.

Then try cleaning the unit to ensure dust isn’t preventing the thermostat from functioning. If the thermostat still doesn’t work, there could be a wiring issue requiring professional repair.

Your AC performs a crucial role in providing a comfortable climate inside your house. These steps will help you troubleshoot problems that may arise. While there’s no shame in asking for help, you may be able to fix these common issues on your own before calling in a professional.