Common Air Conditioning Problems and Repairs
There are many problems that can arise with a cooling system. Below are some of the most common.
Refrigerant Leak
Refrigerant is the substance that absorbs and releases heat to cool your home. If there's a leak in the system, your AC will struggle to cool properly, run longer, and may even blow warm air. Low refrigerant levels can cause the compressor to overheat and fail which can be a costly repair. Ready air technicians can locate the leak, seal it, and recharge the system to the correct level. It's important to note that simply adding refrigerant without addressing the leak is only a temporary fix. Timely repairs prevent further damage and ensure your system runs efficiently and reliably during peak cooling seasons.
Capacitor Replacement
Capacitors store and release energy to help start an air conditioner's motors. A bad capacitor can result in the system not starting, intermittent operation, or strange noises like humming. It’s a common issue that can arise due to various forms of wear and tear or even power surges. When a capacitor goes bad, the motor it serves won’t run, causing the system to malfunction. Ready Air HVAC technicians can test capacitors using a multimeter and replace them quickly if needed. Replacing a faulty capacitor restores your system’s ability to turn on smoothly and helps avoid additional strain on the motor and other key components.
Contactor Replacement
The contactor acts as a switch that controls the flow of electricity to the AC’s compressor and fan motor. When it wears out or gets pitted from frequent electrical arcing, it may not close properly, preventing the system from turning on. Sometimes a contactor will stay closed, causing the system to run continuously. A faulty contactor can also make a buzzing or clicking sound. Replacing a bad contactor is a repair that restores proper electrical control, helping your air conditioner operate safely and reliably throughout the cooling season.
Blower Motor Repair or Replacement
The blower motor is responsible for circulating air through your home’s ductwork. If it fails or runs inefficiently, you’ll notice weak airflow or no air movement at all. Common symptoms include rattling noises, high energy bills, or warm air from the vents. Motor issues can stem from worn bearings, a faulty capacitor, or accumulated debris. In some cases, the motor can be repaired, but older or severely damaged units often require replacement. A functioning blower motor ensures that cooled air is properly distributed throughout your home, helping your system run smoothly and maintaining consistent comfort in all rooms.
Compressor Repair or Replacement
The compressor is often called the "heart" of the air conditioning system. It pressurizes and circulates the refrigerant, enabling heat transfer. If the compressor fails, your AC won’t cool effectively—or at all. Signs of compressor issues include loud noises, tripped breakers, or warm air from the vents. Causes include electrical failures, low refrigerant, or poor maintenance. Because it’s a complex and costly component, repair may not always be practical, especially in older systems. Replacing the compressor—or even the whole outdoor unit—may be recommended. Ensuring regular system tune-ups and proper refrigerant levels can help extend a compressor’s lifespan.
Drain Line Cleaning (Condensate Line Clog)
Your AC removes moisture from the air, which drains through a condensate line. Over time, this drain can become clogged with algae, mold, dirt, or debris, leading to water backups. If the line is blocked, water may leak from the indoor unit, causing damage to ceilings, walls, or floors. Some systems include a safety switch that shuts off the AC to prevent damage, but not all do. Cleaning the drain line involves clearing the blockage and flushing the system with a cleaning solution. Regular maintenance prevents clogs and helps your AC run more efficiently while protecting your home from water damage.
Evaporator Coil Cleaning or Repair
The evaporator coil absorbs heat from your home’s air as part of the cooling process. Over time, it can become dirty or clogged with dust, reducing efficiency and causing the coil to freeze. Frozen coils can stop the AC from working entirely and may damage other components. Cleaning the coil with specialized tools and chemicals restores heat exchange performance. If the coil is corroded or leaking refrigerant, it may need to be replaced. Regular maintenance helps prevent these issues, but if performance drops or ice buildup is visible, having the coil professionally inspected and serviced is essential.
Evaporator Coil Cleaning or Repair
The evaporator coil absorbs heat from your home’s air as part of the cooling process. Over time, it can become dirty or clogged with dust, reducing efficiency and causing the coil to freeze. Frozen coils can stop the AC from working entirely and may damage other components. Cleaning the coil with specialized tools and chemicals restores heat exchange performance. If the coil is corroded or leaking refrigerant, it may need to be replaced. Regular maintenance helps prevent these issues, but if performance drops or ice buildup is visible, having the coil professionally inspected and serviced is essential.
Regardless of what problem you may be experience with your air conditioner, Ready Air's team of experienced HVAC technician are here to answer any questions you may and diagnose the cause of your air conditioning unit not working at peak performance. Call us today at (410) 904-6433. We stand READY.