Make the Call for Comfort

AC Not Working? Outlining the Most Common AC Issues & Solutions.

“Why is my AC not working?” is a question many of us have asked ourselves at some point. To help you stay cool and comfortable, we’ll dive into common AC issues and provide practical solutions.

Whether your AC is blowing warm air, making strange noises, or not turning on at all, we’ve got you covered. Let’s troubleshoot together and get your AC back in top shape.

Why Your AC Won’t Turn On

A malfunctioning air conditioner can be a significant inconvenience during hot weather. Several common issues can prevent your AC unit from starting. By understanding these potential problems, you may be able to resolve the issue independently or at least provide valuable information to a technician.

Some of the reasons your AC isn’t turning on can include:

• Thermostat issues:
  • Ensure the thermostat is set to "cool" and the desired temperature is lower than the current room temperature.
  • Check and replace batteries if necessary.
  • Verify proper wiring connections.
  • Consider replacing the thermostat if it's malfunctioning.
• Electrical problems:
  • Inspect circuit breakers for tripped switches and reset them if needed.
  • Check for blown fuses in the AC unit's electrical panel.
  • Ensure proper electrical supply to the unit.
• Airflow obstructions:
  • Clean or replace dirty air filters.
  • Remove debris and obstructions from outdoor unit vents.
  • Inspect ductwork for blockages.
• Refrigerant issues:
  • Low refrigerant levels require a professional recharge.
  • Refrigerant leaks necessitate expert repair.
• Compressor failure:
  • Compressor problems typically require professional diagnosis and repair.

Why Your Air Conditioner Isn’t Cooling the House

If your air conditioner is running but not effectively cooling your home, several factors could be contributing to the problem. Potential problems include:

• Insufficient airflow:
  • Dirty or clogged air filters: Regularly inspect and replace air filters.
  • Blocked vents or registers: Ensure vents are clear of obstructions.
  • Ductwork issues: Check for leaks or blockages in the duct system.
• Insufficient AC unit size:
  • Various factors, like the square footage of your property, the height of your ceilings, and the required tonnage of the AC unit, determine what the right size unit is for your home. If you did not have the correct measurements during the AC installation or some of these factors changed, you will need to speak with an HVAC technician to determine and get a correctly sized unit.
• Insufficient unit maintenance:
  • Make sure you clean your indoor and outdoor units regularly.
  • Make sure your outdoor unit is clear of debris.
• Unit component issues:
  • The air handler may be frozen: If your evaporator coils are frozen, your AC won’t cool nor will it be able to dehumidify the air properly.
  • You may have a faulty compressor: If your compressor is broken, it can’t remove heat from the air and move it outside.
  • Your AC unit may be nearing the end of its lifespan: If you have an older system, it may be becoming less efficient and may require more frequent repairs over time.

Why Your Air Conditioning Fan Is Not Working

A non-functioning air conditioner fan can significantly impact your home's comfort. Several factors can contribute to this issue, including:

• Electrical problems:
  • Tripped circuit breaker. Check the breaker box for a tripped circuit related to the AC unit.
  • Faulty motor. A burned-out fan motor requires professional replacement.
  • Capacitor issue. A malfunctioning capacitor can prevent the fan from starting.
• Blocked airflow:
  • Clogged air filter. A dirty filter can restrict airflow and strain the fan motor.
  • Obstructed vents. Ensure vents are clear of obstructions.

Why Your Air Conditioner Is Making Noise

Air conditioners, like any complex machinery, can produce a variety of sounds during operation. While some noises are normal, others may indicate underlying issues that require attention. Paying close attention to these sounds can help you identify potential problems early on.

You should take note of the following AC noises:

• Screeching or squealing: These noises often point to a worn-out fan motor or belt. They could also indicate a problem with the compressor.
• Banging or clunking: These sounds might signify loose components, worn-out parts, or even a more serious issue like a failing compressor.
• Hissing: A hissing sound can indicate a refrigerant leak, which requires immediate professional attention.
• Gurgling or bubbling: These noises usually point to a clogged drain line. While this can often be resolved with a DIY cleaning, persistent issues may require professional assistance.
• Buzzing or humming: These sounds can be caused by a variety of factors, including electrical issues, fan problems, or refrigerant imbalances.

Why Your AC Won’t Turn Off

If you are having issues with turning the unit off, you may have one of the following issues:

• Thermostat malfunctions:
  • Battery failure: Replace batteries if the thermostat is battery-operated.
  • Faulty thermostat: If the thermostat is malfunctioning, it may need to be replaced.
• Electrical issues:
  • Tripped circuit breaker: Check the breaker box for a tripped circuit and reset if necessary.
  • Faulty capacitor: A malfunctioning capacitor can prevent the AC from starting and requires professional replacement.
• Airflow obstructions:
  • Dirty air filter: Clean or replace a clogged air filter.
  • Blocked outdoor unit: Remove debris and obstructions from the outdoor unit.

AC Issues Persisting? Time to Call the Professionals.

Summer heat can be brutal, and a malfunctioning air conditioner is the last thing you need.

If you are experiencing an issue with your AC, the team at Donmar Heating, Cooling & Plumbing can help you identify the source of the problem and handle the repairs. We can also conduct routine maintenance that can help you avoid needing costly repairs.

Get in touch with our technicians by calling (703) 457-8676.