3 Most Common AC Repair Issues & How to Fix Them
While homeowners can handle some minor AC maintenance tasks, like replacing an air filter, professionals should always address more complex repair issues. Without proper knowledge, handling electrical components, chemicals, and intricate system repairs can pose significant safety risks and potentially lead to further damage.
Below, we review three of the most common AC repair issues that require professional intervention and explain how we fix them. Donmar Heating, Cooling & Plumbingis your go-to partner for all things air conditioning.
1. Refrigerant Leaks
Refrigerant leaks are among the most common AC issues. When the refrigerant levels are too low, the AC unit cannot efficiently cool your home, leading to higher energy bills and reduced comfort.
Signs you may have a refrigerant leak include:
- Warm air blowing from vents
- Hissing or bubbling noises
- Ice forming on the refrigerant line
To fix refrigerant leaks, it is essential to identify and repair the leak promptly, followed by recharging the refrigerant to the correct level. This is not something that should be attempted on your own. Instead, you should reach out to an experienced AC repair technician like ours.
2. Frozen Evaporator Coils
Frozen evaporator coils can disrupt the cooling process and lead to significant issues with your AC system. This problem generally occurs when the coils are unable to absorb heat due to restricted airflow or low refrigerant levels.
Signs that you may have frozen evaporator coils include:
- Noticeable frost or ice on the coils
- Poor airflow from the vents
- Unusual increase in humidity levels
To address frozen evaporator coils, turning off the AC unit to allow the ice to thaw is your first step. From there, you should clean and/or replace dirty air filters to help prevent future occurrences. We also encourage you to contact Donmar Heating, Cooling & Plumbing as soon as possible. If your evaporator coil is freezing, it is a sign of a more significant issue with your unit. Our specialists are equipped to diagnose and repair the underlying causes to keep your system running smoothly.
3. Electrical Problems
Electrical problems in an AC system can manifest through faulty wiring, tripped circuit breakers, or malfunctioning capacitors and relays. These issues can lead to the air conditioning unit not turning on, intermittent operation, or a complete system failure. Addressing electrical problems promptly is crucial to avoid potential safety hazards and ensure your AC system's longevity.
Signs your AC has electrical problems include:
- AC unit frequently turning on and off
- Unresponsive thermostat
- Strange sounds during operation
Repairing electrical issues requires a professional to inspect the wiring and connections within the AC system. Do not attempt to fix electrical problems with your AC or HVAC system alone. Instead, contact Donmar Heating, Cooling & Plumbing to precisely identify and resolve any electrical faults, ensuring your air conditioning system operates reliably.
How Long Do AC Repairs Usually Take?
The duration of air conditioning repairs can vary significantly depending on the nature and extent of the issue. Minor repairs, such as cleaning coils, can often be completed within an hour. More complex problems, such as fixing refrigerant leaks, addressing frozen evaporator coils, or resolving electrical issues, may take a few hours to a full day.
The skilled technicians at Donmar Heating, Cooling & Plumbing strive to diagnose and repair your AC system efficiently and effectively, minimizing inconvenience while ensuring high-quality service. For the most accurate timeline, schedule a professional assessment with us today.
Having trouble with your air conditioner? Reach out to the team at Donmar Heating, Cooling & Plumbing today for fast, reliable repair service in DC, Maryland, and Virginia.