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How To Handle Common Midsummer AC Issues

Ah, summer. The season of sunshine, vacations, and relentless heat. When the mercury soars, your air conditioner (AC) becomes your best friend.


But what happens when your best friend throws a tantrum and stops keeping you cool? Don't fret! Here's a guide to diagnose and troubleshoot some of the most frequent air conditioner problems you might encounter.


Insufficient Cooling


Your AC is humming along, but you're still sweating. Check the thermostat first. Make sure it's set to 'cool' and the desired temperature is lower than the current room temperature.


Next, suspect the air filter. A clogged air filter restricts airflow, hindering your AC's ability to cool your home. Clean or replace the air filter according to the manufacturer's instructions. Dirty air filters are a common cause of many air conditioning problems.


Finally, inspect the outdoor condenser unit. Leaves, twigs, and debris can accumulate around it, blocking airflow. Clear away any obstructions and gently hose down the condenser coils to remove dirt and grime. Remember to never bend the fins while cleaning.


AC Won't Turn On


Is your AC on strike? Before you panic, check the power supply. Ensure the unit is plugged in and the circuit breaker hasn't tripped. If you have a programmable thermostat, replace the batteries if needed.


If these simple checks don't work, there might be a wiring issue. Unless you're comfortable with electrical work, it's best to call in a professional HVAC technician at this point.


How To Handle Common Midsummer AC Issues

Strange Noises


Your AC shouldn't sound like a horror movie soundtrack. Grinding, squealing, or banging noises could indicate loose parts, fan issues, or even condenser fan motor problems.


For loose parts, tighten any screws or bolts that seem wobbly. If you hear strange fan noises, check for obstructions or damage to the fan blades. Don't attempt to fix condenser fan motor problems yourself. Call a professional to diagnose and repair the motor.


Water Leaks


Water pooling around your AC unit is a sign something's amiss. The culprit could be a clogged condensate drain line. Locate the drain line, usually a PVC pipe near the outdoor unit, and clear any blockages.


Another possibility is a frozen evaporator coil. This can happen if the airflow is restricted by dirty air filters or clogged air filters, or if the temperature setting is too low. Turn off the AC and let the coils thaw completely before restarting.


To prevent future freezing, clean or replace the air filter regularly and avoid setting the temperature setting too low.


Short Cycling


Is your AC constantly turning on and off in rapid cycles? This is known as short cycling, and it can reduce efficiency and shorten the lifespan of your AC unit.


Check the air filter again. A dirty air filter is a common culprit behind short cycling. Ensure the thermostat is set correctly and there are no drafts around the thermostat that might confuse the sensor.


If the problem persists, there could be low refrigerant levels or a malfunctioning sensor. These issues require a professional's touch. Low refrigerant levels are a common cause of air conditioner problems and can lead to other issues like frozen evaporator coils.


How To Handle Common Midsummer AC Issues

Unpleasant Odors


A musty or moldy smell coming from your AC vents is unpleasant and can indicate mold growth inside the unit. Turn off the AC and open the windows to air things out.


For stubborn odors, you might need to clean the condensate drain line and the interior of the air handler unit. However, if you suspect mold growth, it's best to call a professional for proper cleaning and remediation.


Uneven Cooling


Is your house a battleground of hot and cold zones? Uneven cooling can be caused by blocked vents, closed doors, or duct leaks.


Ensure all vents are open and unobstructed by furniture or rugs. Check if certain rooms are constantly closed off, as this can disrupt airflow throughout the house. If you suspect duct leaks, calling a professional for inspection and sealing is recommended.


High Energy Bills


Spiked energy bills can be a nasty surprise. Dirty air filters, clogged condenser coils, and improper thermostat settings can all contribute to your AC working harder and using more energy.


Address these issues as mentioned earlier. Additionally, consider scheduling professional maintenance for your AC unit. Regular maintenance can help identify and address minor problems before they snowball into major energy drains. An HVAC technician can also check for low refrigerant levels, which can also contribute to high energy bills.


AC Runs Constantly


If your AC seems to be running nonstop, there could be several reasons. Incorrect thermostat settings, excessive heat gain from sunlight or appliances, and improper ductwork can all lead to overwork.


Double-check your thermostat settings. Consider installing blinds or curtains on south-facing windows to reduce heat gain. If you suspect ductwork issues, consult a professional for repairs.


Final Thoughts


You don't have to weather AC problems alone. If your troubleshooting skills hit a dead end, don't hesitate to call trusted HVAC experts like LG Home Comfort. They'll have your air conditioner humming happily again in no time, and you can get back to enjoying those comfy, cool summer days.


 

Award Winning Interiors blogger

Jenny Kakoudakis likes to blog about interiors. She launched the award-winning Seasons in Colour in 2014. When she is not chasing criminals out of the financial system (her day job), she gets creative by redecorating her own home.


Download her free bathroom renovation guide here.

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