AC Not Working? Here are some Common AC Problems

Although there may be hundreds of factors why your Saint Charles home’s central air conditioner may need to be repaired, there are a few reasons that are quite common. Knowing what they are may create some personal understanding what a technician is saying when they address the options for resolving the problem. Here are the top five problems that may cause your air conditioning system to break down. Review the Top 5 list below and if any of these scenarios exist in your home, please schedule an HVAC inspection.

1. Wrong wiring

   Bad, haphazard or uncertified A/C wiring is risky and a possible fire hazard. Bad wiring often prevents the system from getting power or can trip the circuit breaker.

2. Depleted refrigerant

   Refrigerant (typically referred to as Freon) is the chemical that cools the air inside your air conditioning system. Low refrigerant could imply a leak or problem with the refrigerant system. If your air conditioning system needs to be recharged with refrigerant, typically that suggests there is a leak. All refrigerant leaks should be located and repaired. For news about the phase out of R-22 refrigerant in the United States, we suggest that you to visit the U.S. EPA website.

3. Outside fan is not functioning

   The fan on your outside AC unit is responsible for transferring the heat from your Saint Charles home to the outside air. If the fan on the outside unit doesn’t operate properly, proper heat transfer does not occur and the air conditioning compressor may overheat and trip the safety overload. This action can lead to internal damage to the compressor.

4. Outside unit not functional

   This typically indicates a loss of power, contactor problems or even a bad thermostat.

5. Frozen inside coil

   A frozen coil mainly indicates trouble with the airflow, such as restrictions caused by filthy air filters or blocked return air ductwork. Frozen indoor coils could also be derived from low refrigerant.

Experts recommend that the number one way for a Saint Charles area homeowner to prevent these simple problems is by participating in a preventive maintenance program. Bad wiring, low refrigerant and airflow problems can be discovered during routine maintenance tune-ups. For all these common issues, a professionally qualified, NATE-certified technician can promptly analyze the problem area and implement the necessary repairs. Call or contact us today for an evaluation!