Summer heat in St. Louis can test your air conditioning system, making it essential to understand common AC problems and how to fix them. Whether your AC is blowing warm air, making strange noises, or not turning on, these troubleshooting tips and solutions can help keep your home cool and comfortable.
For professional help, you can always count on Galmiche & Sons. When it comes to AC problems, we are the experts you can depend on in the greater St. Louis area. To learn more or schedule your AC service and repairs with our heating and air conditioning experts, call or contact us online today.
Understanding Common AC Problems & How to Fix Them
1. AC Not Cooling Properly
If your AC is running but not cooling properly, the first step is to check the thermostat settings. Ensure the thermostat is set to "cool" mode and the temperature is set lower than the current room temperature. If the thermostat is working, the next step is to inspect the air filter. A dirty or clogged filter can restrict airflow and cause cooling problems, so replace it if necessary.
Another potential issue could be low refrigerant levels. This needs to be handled by a professional, as adding refrigerant requires specific skills. If you suspect an AC refrigerant leak, scheduling maintenance with a St. Louis AC technician is the safest bet.
2. AC Not Turning On
If your AC fails to turn on at all, start by checking the circuit breaker. If it has tripped, try resetting it. If the circuit breaker trips again, there might be a more significant electrical issue that requires professional intervention.
Next, examine the thermostat. If the screen is blank, the batteries might be dead. Replace the batteries and see if this resolves the issue. If the problem persists, there might be an issue with the thermostat itself or the wiring, which a technician should inspect.
3. Strange Noises Coming from the AC
Hearing unusual sounds from your AC can be alarming. Depending on the noise, different issues could be at play. For instance:
- Hissing: This could indicate a refrigerant leak or internal valve problems.
- Banging/Creaking: These sounds typically point to a loose or broken part inside the compressor.
- Whistling/Screeching: Sounds like these might be caused by a breach in the ductwork or a clogged filter. To address these noises, first turn off your AC to prevent further damage. Tighten any loose components you can safely access, such as screws on the grille.
If strange AC noises or sounds continue, it’s best to bring in a professional who can diagnose and fix the problem before it escalates.
4. AC Leaking Water
Water leaks around your AC unit are a sign that something isn’t right. This could be due to a clogged condensate drain line, causing water to back up and overflow. Try using a wet/dry vacuum to clear the clog.
Alternatively, the issue might be dirty or frozen evaporator coils, leading to excess condensation. Clean the coils if they are dirty, and check the air filter. A dirty filter can restrict airflow, causing the coils to freeze and then thaw, which leads to leaks.
5. Frequent Cycling
If your AC is turning on and off frequently (also known as AC short cycling, it could be due to various reasons, including an oversized unit, low refrigerant, or a faulty thermostat. Start by ensuring your thermostat is functioning correctly and positioned away from direct sunlight or heat sources.
You can also check the refrigerant levels, but remember, adjusting this yourself isn’t recommended – call a professional. If you suspect your AC unit is too large for your home, consulting a Galmiche & Sons HVAC expert can help determine whether a different unit size would be more efficient.
6. AC Emitting Unpleasant Odors
A musty odor usually signifies mold or mildew growth. To tackle this, clean or replace your air filter and inspect the evaporator coils and ducts for mold, cleaning them if necessary.
A burning smell might be due to electrical issues or overheating components, which is a more serious problem. Turn off the AC immediately and contact an HVAC technician for an inspection.
Contact Galmiche and Sons to Fix Your AC Problems
Understanding common AC problems and their solutions can save you time, money, and frustration. It is always recommended to call an expert to fix AC problems, and ensure the safety of your home and equipment. Contact Galmiche & Sons immediately if you suspect any AC problems.
