Summers can’t be comfortable without AC cooling at home. When the AC unit is not working properly it can leave you and your family in the scorching heat. We can’t imagine a day without an air conditioner in summer heat. It is very important that we take proper care and properly maintain our AC unit throughout summers and even in winters when it is not working.  AC repair can be costly and this also makes it important for us to keep it properly maintained in good working condition.   Still you may face some problems with your AC and here we will find out what the most common air conditioner problems are — and how you can fix them.

Filter Problems

The most common problem with your AC unit is of clogged or dirty filter. Whenever you will find that your AC is not working properly you must check the filter of your air conditioner. Dirty filters can reduce the airflow and can cause freezing problem in many AC parts. You must always follow the owner manual guide for suggestions like when to change the filters, which filters to use and what is the life of your ac air filter. There are some filters that needs to be changed after a month, some have life span of three month, while some are reusable and should be cleaned when they are dirty. The best way to check if the AC filter is in good condition is by checking if any light passes through it. If the light does not pass then it simply means it is time to clean it or replace it. 

Thermostat

The other common problem that may persist in your AC unit is of thermostat. Thermostat controls the temperature setting inside your room.  It should be switched ON all the time when you use your AC unit. Always check the temperature setting whenever you feel problem with the AC cooling. Reconfigure the thermostat settings or have it repaired if necessary. A poorly calibrated thermostat will cause erratic AC behavior.

Refrigerant Leaks

Refrigerant used in your AC removes heat and humidity from the air. Whenever you see any fluctuation within room temperature then it can be due to refrigerant leak. Your AC unit will not work properly when refrigerant starts leaking. Fixing the leak issue requires professional HVAC technician who can easily detect the leak location. The cost of repairing leak depends on the location of the leak position. Refrigerant leak can also be harmful to the environment.

Drainage

As filters can clogged with dirt and debris, drain line can also get lock with dust, dirt and lint. Blockage in drain line can case water leak which can harm your AC unit. The clogged drain pane will fill fully and water leakage will start. Whenever you find water leaking from your AC unit then please check the drain line and clean it if necessary.

Breakers or Fuses

The breakers and fuses are most important part of your AC unit as it protects the AC unit’s motor or compressor from overheating. Whenever the motor to an air conditioner dies, one of the first parts the HVAC technician check is the breaker.

Capacitors

It is the capacitors that activate motors and provide electricity to keep them running. The motor that power the compressor and fan will not work properly without capacitors. The air conditioner will not work effectively if the capacitor burns out.

Compressor

One of the major parts of your AC unit is the compressor. The function of compressor is to energies the refrigerant and propels it through the coil to carry out heat exchange.  It needs regular checkup and maintenance. The AC unit will not cool your home if the compressor stops working. Low or high refrigerant level can be the major reasons that can seize the compressor. This makes it very important to maintain the proper level of the refrigerant in your AC unit.

Frozen evaporator coils

Evaporator coil is filled with refrigerant. They are responsible for absorbing the heat from the air like a sponge. These coils need warm air circulating around them so that they can work effectively. In some case when evaporator coil gets too cold they can get freeze up and your AC unit will stop working. Keep your AC unit dirt free and clean the air filters so that these coils get proper airflow.

Condenser Coils

These coils are located outside with the compressor and sometimes they can become dirty as they are placed outside. Their job is to release the room heat into the outdoor air. These coils must be cleaned properly twice a year with water hose.

Worn Contactor

Contactor makes an electrical connection that starts the motors and compressor. If these contractors get worn out, it becomes difficult for electric current to start the motors.