7 Common Air Conditioning Problems
Few things are worse than a broken air conditioning unit in the intense heat of summer. As your local electrician in Colorado Springs, we advise you to make sure your air conditioning system is functioning well before the temperatures start rising. If your air conditioning is having problems, isn’t cooling your home, or is making odd noises, it may be time to contact your local electrician. Here are common problems that homeowners have with their air conditioning.
Common Air Conditioning Problems
Faulty Wiring
An AC unit with bad wiring is a hazard to your home and family’s safety. Wiring problems can cause your air conditioning to run inefficiently or not at all because the unit is not getting enough power or it’s tripping the circuit breaker. Bad wiring is also a fire hazard.
Low Refrigerant
When you are low on refrigerant, your unit will simply not work. Refrigerant is the chemical that cools the air. If your home is not cooling due to a problem with the refrigerant, there may be a leak and you will likely need to get the refrigerant system replaced.
Problems with Outside Fan
Just as refrigerant is essential for cooling your home, so is the outside fan. Even if you have enough refrigerant and the rest of your AC unit is working properly, a faulty outside fan will keep your system from cooling your home. If the fan isn’t fixed, it can lead to bigger problems — the compressor may overheat, the unit could shut down, or the compressor might need costly repairs.
Outside Unit Not Functioning
If your outside unit isn’t working, a few issues could be to blame. It might not be getting power due to bad wiring, a faulty thermostat, or another essential component. If the unit won’t run, shuts off too soon, or makes unusual noises, it’s a sign that your system could use some attention from your local electrician.
Frozen Coil
A frozen coil can be the result of air filters that need to be cleaned or an obstruction in the ductwork. Low refrigerant can also cause the coils in your AC unit to freeze. If it seems that there is a problem with the air flow associated with your unit, chances are the coil is frozen.
Electric Control Failure
When you schedule regular service for your AC unit, make sure the technician checks the entire electrical system. Wires and terminals can corrode over time. This can weaken electrical contacts or stop them from working at all.
Thermostat & Sensor Issues
If your outdoor unit seems to be working, but your AC system isn’t cooling properly, the issue could be with your thermostat or sensors. These components tell the unit when to turn on and off. A faulty thermostat or sensor may be the cause when:
- Your AC system won’t start
- Your AC keeps running after reaching the set temperature
- Your AC unit operates inconsistently
Air Conditioning Problems? Call Your Local Electrician
If your air conditioning unit isn’t working or you want to make sure it will keep you cool all summer long, call Front Range Electric! We are experts in AC repair, maintenance, and installation. We serve the greater Colorado Springs area and offer free consultations!