Blog / Air Conditioning Troubleshooting Tips
When dealing with problems with your central air conditioning system it’s best to leave it to the professionals. However, knowing some common air conditioning problems can help you understand what the technician is referring to when discussing the various options for correcting a problem.
The best way to prevent these common problems is to make sure preventative maintenance is performed on your system annually. Airflow problems, bad wiring and low refrigerant are all problems that can be detected during routine maintenance check-ups.
- Clogged filter. Most people can change their air filter, they just forget. If the filter doesn’t get changed and it becomes clogged, the condenser fins on the inside part of your furnace cannot “breathe”. This will cause it to freeze up, literally! Don’t forget to change your filter and should it freeze up, try turning off your unit for a few hours to allow any ice to thaw.
- Improper, haphazard or uncertified wiring. Faulty wiring is dangerous and a potential fire hazard. Bad wiring often prevents the system from getting power or can trip the circuit breaker.
- Low refrigerant levels. Refrigerant is the chemical that cools the air. Low refrigerant may indicate a leak or problem with the refrigerant system. If your system needs to be recharged with refrigerant, typically that means there is a leak. All refrigerant leaks should be located and repaired by a professional technician.
- Outside fan not working. The function of the outside fan is to transfer heat from your home to the outside air. When the outside fan is not working, proper heat transfer is not taking place and the air conditioning compressor may over heat and trip the safety overload. It could also cause internal damage to the compressor.
- Outside unit not working. This can occur due to lack of power, contractor problems or even a faulty thermostat.
- Inside coil frozen. A frozen coil often indicates a problem with the airflow, either due to a dirty filter or blocked return air duct. Frozen indoor coils can also be the result of low refrigerant.
The best way to prevent these common problems is to make sure preventative maintenance is performed on your system annually. Airflow problems, bad wiring and low refrigerant are all problems that can be detected during routine maintenance check-ups.
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