Dealing With Furnace Problems

5 A/C Problems That Merit An HVAC Service Call

17 September 2018 by Eliza Chapman

When it comes to taking care of your air conditioning system, you're not afraid to get your hands dirty. You've replaced your own air filters, changed your own thermostat batteries, and even cleaned the blower fan of dust and debris. Despite all of the DIY work you've done to your A/C system, there are times when a quick call to your local HVAC technician is necessary. Here are a few scenarios where you'll need air conditioning repair in your area.

1. Your A/C Stops Cooling

Are you getting warm air from your A/C instead of the cool air you're expecting, even after double-checking your thermostat settings? Chances are you're dealing with a refrigerant leak. A pinhole leak in a refrigerant line or the evaporator/condenser coils can cause a gradual loss of refrigerant, which, in turn, robs your A/C of its ability to deliver cool air.

Dealing with a refrigerant leak can be dangerous work for the average DIYer, so you're better off leaving this job in the hands of a capable and licensed HVAC technician.

2. Your A/C Stops Working

Imagine your A/C simply stops working. Even after checking for blown fuses, tripped circuit breakers, and faulty thermostats, your A/C system simply refuses to start up. Any number of electrical issues, including blown capacitors, damaged wiring, and burnt circuit boards, can put an A/C unit out of commission.

If you can't coax your A/C system back to life with the usual troubleshooting steps, then it's time to call on your HVAC technician for more help.

3. Your A/C Works, But It's Noisy

Silence is always golden, especially when it comes to your A/C system. The sudden appearance of strange noises could point to serious problems with your A/C unit. Squealing or screeching sounds often indicate fan blower damage, motor bearing failure, or a failing blower fan belt. Rattling, banging, and clicking noises can mean anything from loose motor mounts to defective relays and short-cycling compressors.

4. Your A/C Just Sprung a Leak

Water leaks are the last thing anyone would think about when it comes to an air conditioning system. However, A/C systems regularly produce condensate, which needs to be drained away from the system in order for it to operate properly. A damaged or clogged drain line can cause condensate to leak and pool around the indoor A/C unit.

5. You Smell Something Burning from Your A/C

Air conditioning systems can overheat for a variety of reasons. Airflow blockages caused by dirty air filters and condenser coils can cause your A/C unit to overheat. Compressors can also experience bearing failure and loss of lubrication, leading to excessive friction and a potential fire hazard. Electrical components can also short-circuit and catch fire.

If you smell anything burning in your A/C system, immediately shut it off and call your HVAC technician as soon as possible.

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