Walking into a cool, air-conditioned home is a modern convenience that many take for granted. However, this convenience requires regular AC maintenance to continue functioning properly.

AC Repair Round Rock TX can identify and fix a wide range of problems, saving homeowners money on energy bills and repairs.

Some issues require a simple solution like flipping the breaker switch, while others need to be handled by a professional due to complexities and safety concerns.

1. Unusual Noises

When your air conditioning system is working as it should, it should operate quietly in the background, delivering cool, comfortable air to your home. However, if you hear unusual AC noises, it could be a sign that your system isn’t functioning properly and needs attention. Whether the sounds are clicking, hissing, or screeching, these AC noises should not be ignored and should be addressed by a professional to prevent serious issues that could damage your system.

Clicking sounds are often caused by loose screws or bolts in the system that need to be tightened or realigned. This can result from the vibrations of the system or from general wear and tear over time. These small fixes are a typical part of regular maintenance, which ensures that all components are functioning correctly and providing optimal performance.

Hissing or humming noises can also indicate electrical issues, like loose wiring or a faulty capacitor. A squealing sound is likely to be the result of a worn-out fan belt, which connects the blower motor and compressor. Replacing the fan belt will typically eliminate this high-pitched sound and help ensure your AC is running efficiently.

Another common AC repair sound is a chirping noise, which usually indicates the need for internal parts to be lubricated or replaced. This can be caused by dirt, debris, or clogged air filters that restrict airflow and force the system to work harder. This is another simple fix that can be done during regular maintenance service, which should include cleaning the condenser coils and replacing air filters.

Other noises that may need immediate attention include bubbling or gurgling sounds. These can indicate that the refrigerant lines have a leak or are clogged with water. Refrigerant leaks are a serious problem that can cause damage to your system and affect indoor air quality. These problems can be avoided with routine maintenance, which includes cleaning the condenser coils, replacing air filters, and lubricating moving parts.

2. Your AC Won’t Turn On

A cool house is a comfort that many of us take for granted. However, walking into a sweltering house can be a sign that your AC is struggling.

The first thing to check if your AC isn’t turning on is the thermostat. Make sure it is set to “Cool” and that the desired temperature is lower than the current room temperature. Also, check the batteries. If the problem persists, you may have deeper thermostat issues that require professional attention.

Another possibility is that your circuit breaker has switched off. This can happen if you are using too many appliances at once or there are power surges after a storm. Often, simply flipping the switch back on can remedy this issue.

Additionally, the reason your air conditioner won’t turn on could be as simple as a clogged air filter. This will restrict air flow and prevent your system from functioning properly. If you notice that the filter is dirty, replace it with a new one.

Finally, your AC may not start up if it’s low on refrigerant. This is a common issue and can cause your system to freeze up. The indoor unit contains the evaporator coil and the outdoor unit contains the compressor. The two components are connected via a refrigerant line, which can develop a leak over time. When this happens, your system will be unable to cool the home because warm air cannot pass through the evaporator coils.

If you are experiencing an AC problem, a quick DIY fix can save you money and hassle. Checking for a clogged drain line, a faulty thermostat, or a dirty air filter are all easy fixes that can restore your AC to working condition. However, if the problem is more serious and requires professional attention, an experienced HVAC technician can help you solve the problem and keep your home cool all summer long. Contact Clarke & Rush today to schedule an AC repair in Atlanta!

3. Your AC Is Blowing Hot Air

Your AC is supposed to cool your home and provide you with comfortable relief from the heat. If your system is blowing warm air, it’s time for a professional assessment and possible repairs. If the issue is minor, such as a clogged drain line or capacitor that has gone bad, it may be a simple fix without needing full replacement of the system.

Oftentimes, AC systems blow warm air due to thermostat errors or electrical problems. To function properly, your AC requires a consistent supply of electricity. A loose wire, tripped breaker, or blown fuse can disrupt this flow and cause the unit to stop cooling. In many cases, you can check and reset your circuit breaker to correct this problem.

Additionally, if your air filter is dirty, it can hinder the proper flow of cool air into your home. Make sure you keep up with your routine maintenance by changing your air filter every one to three months.

It’s also important to ensure that your vents are open and nothing is blocking them. If your air vents are iced over, you can turn your system off and turn the fan on to allow the ice to melt. If this is a recurring problem, it could be a sign of a refrigerant leak, which should be repaired by a professional.

Humidity in your home can also lead to cooling issues, as it will clog your evaporator coils and interfere with the airflow of the system. Having a professional conduct an inspection and cleaning of your air ducts can reduce humidity, helping to cool your home and improve the quality of your indoor air.

When performing your DIY AC repair, always make sure to turn off the power at the panel and breaker before working on the system. This will prevent any unintentional damage or injuries. Also, don’t try to handle the refrigerant yourself or perform any major electrical work, as these tasks require a professional with the necessary tools and skills. Finally, never attempt to clean the condenser coils yourself, as this can damage your system.

4. Your AC Isn’t Cooling

A lack of cooling is one of the most frustrating problems with an AC, especially when it happens during the hottest part of summer. If you notice that your air conditioning is running but isn’t delivering cool air, it’s important to first make sure that the thermostat is set to the correct setting. It’s also a good idea to check for any issues with the blower or fan, such as clogs.

If everything seems to be set correctly, you could have a problem with the thermostat itself. This can be as simple as replacing the batteries, or it might be a larger issue that requires professional repair. Many newer thermostats have built-in error detection and will alert you if there is a problem with the system, making it easier to diagnose a problem.

It’s also possible that the cooling system isn’t working due to a problem with the drainage line or the condensate pan. The drain pan collects condensation, and an electric pump is supposed to move it away from the air conditioner. If this isn’t working properly, it can lead to a blockage or overflow of the condensate drain. It’s a good idea to check the drain line regularly, and you can do this by checking for twigs, leaves, or other debris that might be blocking it.

You should also check to see if the air ducts are blocked or damaged. If there are any holes in the ducts, it can affect the flow of air throughout your home, leading to poor heating and cooling performance. Luckily, air ducts are relatively easy to fix. You can hire a professional to perform an inspection and repairs, or you can do the work yourself by sealing any leaks in the ducts.

Finally, you should check for a refrigerant leak. A leak will cause your AC to stop producing cold air, and it’s important to turn off your system immediately if you suspect a refrigerant leak. It’s also a good idea call in an expert right away so that the refrigerant can be restored to proper levels.