Common Reasons Your AC Might Not Be Working
When the temperatures start to rise, having a working air conditioning (AC) system is essential for staying comfortable. However, if your AC isn't blowing cool air or isn't working at all, it can be frustrating and uncomfortable. Here are some of the most common reasons your AC might not be working and some troubleshooting tips to help you fix the issue.
Top Reasons Your AC Might Not Be Working
Thermostat Problems
Dirty Air Filters
Electrical Issues
Water Leak
Refrigerant Leak
Lack of Maintenance
In need of HVAC repair or maintenance? Contact Oakes AC Services today to learn more.
Thermostat Problems
One of the quickest ways to see if your air conditioner is working properly is by seeing if there are problems with your thermostat. If the temperature on your thermostat doesn’t match what it is set to, that’s a quick indication that something is wrong. The temperature inside may also slowly increase throughout the day if there is no cool air being circulated into your system.
If you have an electronic thermostat, you may need to replace the batteries. If it’s mechanical, you can take the cover off and clean it with a small brush or rag to clear any dust. Next, you can look at the wires and see if any are out of place or disconnected and loose. If there are, it is best to call a professional like Oakes AC Services to make sure everything is reconnected properly. Improperly connected wires in a thermostat can short-circuit the unit or cause the unit to operate incorrectly and cause further damage to the HVAC system.
Dirty Air Filters
The next thing you should look at is your air filter. A dirty air filter can cause short-cycling, which is when your system is constantly shutting off and restarting. This adds wear to your compressor, the pump that pushes the refrigerant through your AC system.
It’s recommended that you change your air filter every three months. If you live in a very dusty climate, have multiple pets, or are prone to allergies, you may need to change your air filter more frequently such as every two months or every 30 days to keep the air clean your home.
Electrical Issues
Electrical problems can also cause your AC to stop working. Faulty wiring, a malfunctioning capacitor, or a tripped circuit breaker can all cause your AC to fail. If you suspect an electrical issue, turn off your AC and contact a professional to diagnose and repair the problem.
Water Leak
If water leaks out of your air conditioner, there are a few things that may have caused it. Most often, it’s from a clogged condensate drain, which is a drain line that catches all that humidity and excess water that is removed from your air. The coil in your system removes humidity from the air and converts it into water. From there, water drains into the condensate drain pan, enters the drain, and is then deposited outside next to your outdoor AC unit. If your condensate drain is blocked or the drain line is disconnected, the water will accumulate and over time, begin to start leaking inside your home.
Some installations include a catch basin that will collect any water that doesn’t make it into the condensate drain. A float switch inside the catch basin activates if the water level reaches a certain level and will shut down the HVAC system, thereby averting any water damage to the home. Contact Oakes AC Services and we’ll be glad to come out and diagnose any problem that lead to the accumulation of water.
Refrigerant Leak
Refrigerant is the general name for the chemical blend that cycles throughout your unit and shifts between gaseous and liquid states. During this process, it absorbs heat which is then transferred out of your unit and allows your home to stay cool. You’ll know that your refrigerant is leaking if there are small holes in your coils or if the motor, located outside, is vibrating. You can also test this by placing your hand in front of your home’s air vents to see if your system is blowing out cool air. Contact Oakes AC Services if you believe your system is leaking refrigerant or if it is not blowing out cool air. Prevent larger issues from occurring or getting worse by calling in a professional. We’ll get your system back up and running quickly.
Lack of Maintenance
Maintenance plays a key role in the performance of AC equipment. Over time, dirt, dust, and debris can accumulate in the system, causing it to work less efficiently or even break down completely. A neglected unit can cost 10% to 25% in energy savings loss as well as premature replacement.
Trust The Experts At Oakes AC Services.
Looking to get your air conditioning unit repaired? Contact Oakes AC Services today to learn more about our services at www.oakesacservices.com or 919-368-8824. We strive for excellence every time we service your equipment and will keep you informed on the state of your unit. We are hands-on, involved in the day-to-day services our personnel provide, and we always stand behind our work.
Serving the areas of North Raleigh, Wake Forest, Rolesville, Youngsville, Franklinton, Wendell, Zebulon and surrounding areas.