Here’s a description of the five most common AC issues and their symptoms, as well as the solutions to fix them:
1. Bad Capacitor: A capacitor is responsible for charging and starting the motor in an air conditioning unit. When a capacitor goes bad, it can cause several issues. The symptoms of a bad capacitor include:
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AC not blowing cold air.
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Rising energy bills.
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Humming noise or hesitation when starting the AC.
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AC unit refusing to turn on or sporadically failing to start.
To fix a bad capacitor, it’s recommended to seek professional help from an HVAC technician. They will diagnose the issue and replace the faulty capacitor if necessary. DIY repairs are not recommended due to the risk of electrocution.
2. Low Refrigerant Levels: Refrigerant is the substance responsible for cooling the air in an AC system. When refrigerant levels are low, the AC unit won’t be able to cool properly. The symptoms of low refrigerant levels include:
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AC blowing warm air.
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Reduced cooling capacity.
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Ice buildup on the refrigerant lines or evaporator coil.
Fixing low refrigerant levels requires a professional HVAC technician. They will inspect the system for leaks, repair any leaks found, and then recharge the system with the appropriate amount of refrigerant.
3. Plugged Condensate Drains: The condensate drain removes excess moisture from the AC system. When the drain becomes clogged, it can lead to water leakage and other issues. The symptoms of plugged condensate drains include:
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Water leaking from the AC unit or pooling around it.
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Musty odor or mold growth near the unit.
To fix a plugged condensate drain, you can try clearing the blockage by using a wet/dry vacuum or flushing the drain line with a mixture of water and vinegar. If the issue persists, it’s advisable to contact an HVAC professional for assistance.
4. Bad Control Board: The control board regulates the functions of the AC system. When it malfunctions or fails, it can cause various problems. The symptoms of a bad control board include:
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AC unit not responding to commands or not turning on.
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Erratic behavior of the AC system.
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Error codes or fault indicators are displayed on the thermostat or control panel.
Fixing a bad control board typically requires professional assistance. An HVAC technician will diagnose the issue and replace the faulty control board if necessary.
5. Bad Condenser Fan Motor: The condenser fan motor is responsible for removing heat from the AC system. When it fails, the system can overheat and lead to further damage. The symptoms of a bad condenser fan motor include:
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AC unit not cooling properly or not cooling at all.
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Loud grinding or rattling noises coming from the outdoor unit.
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The fan blades not spinning or spinning slowly.
To fix a bad condenser fan motor, it’s best to contact an HVAC professional. They will inspect the motor, determine if it needs to be replaced, and perform the necessary repairs or replacements.
It’s important to note that AC systems are complex, and attempting DIY repairs without proper knowledge and experience can be dangerous. It’s recommended to consult a qualified HVAC technician for accurate diagnosis and repair.
