Common Air Conditioning Problems

Air conditioning is a Minnesota must-have for the summer months. Your air conditioner doesn’t simply cool the room, it cools the temperature while also removing any moisture or humidity as well. In the Land of 10,000 Lakes, summer humidity is a real concern. When your A/C system is on the fritz, it’s not just a matter of discomfort; it can be dangerous too! Repairs can be costly so it’s important to make sure your air conditioning system is in top shape; you do this through regularly scheduled maintenance. Plus, it’s a good idea to gain a little awareness of common air conditioner problems. Here are some of the most probable causes of a faulty air conditioner:The A/C is Running but it’s Warm Air:There are a number of different reasons that the air conditioner is blowing out warm air. From filter issues to thermostat problems and settings, here are some suggestions:FilterA typical problem for air conditioners is a clogged or dirty air filter. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s guide for changing filters. Some suggest you change the filter monthly while others advise you change them every three months. You can determine whether or not your filter is dirty by doing a light check: if light passes through the filter it’s fine, if not, you have a dirty filter. Dirty filters reduce the flow of air and can cause the A/C unit to freeze.ThermostatAnother simple fix is to make sure the thermostat, which controls the temperature setting in your home, is turned on, the inside is clean, it’s level, it’s not affected by sunlight, and it’s on the correct setting. If a problem persists, there may be something more complex wrong with the system.Water Drips or Fluid Leakage:Again, this can be related to a number of issues and some are pretty simple.Refrigerant LeaksIf your air conditioner is low on refrigerant, either it was undercharged at installation or it leaks. If it leaks, simply adding refrigerant is not a solution. A trained technician should fix any leak, test the repair, and then charge the system with the correct amount of refrigerant. Remember that the performance and efficiency of your air conditioner is greatest when the refrigerant charge exactly matches the manufacturer's specification, and is neither undercharged nor overcharged. Refrigerant leaks can also be harmful to the environment. The location of the leak will impact the cost of repair.DrainageLike the filter, the drain line can become clogged with dirt, dust, and lint. If it becomes clogged, the drain pan will fill up and water will leak out. This can cause damage to the A/C unit. When it’s humid outside, check the condensate drain to make sure it isn’t clogged and is draining properly.The A/C makes Strange Noises: Screeching or squealing sounds that come from the blower motor indicates a motor bearing problem or a faulty belt that might break. Adding lubricant to the oil port might help. Clanging, rattling, thumping or banging generally means there’s a problem with the motor or blower assembly. If you hear any of these noises, turn off the A/C and call a professional. A smacking noise, like playing cards hitting a bicycle spoke, when the blower runs could mean something is stuck in the blower blades or in the housing surrounding the blower. Turn off the A/C and inspect the blower for debris.