Signs of Home Air Conditioner Failure

The HVAC system in your house runs behind the scenes. This seamless functionality means that, in many cases, you may not notice your air conditioner is failing until it is too late. Air conditioners can be expensive to replace. Therefore, look after your air conditioner.



One of the best ways to ensure that your air conditioner stays in top-notch condition is to look out for warning signs of failure so you can stop any damage. Below are some signs.

The Air Conditioner Doesn’t Cool Enough

If you keep turning your thermostat lower with no cool air in sight, you may need to consider repair. Some components, such as a blown compressor or Freon refill, may cause trouble. However, only a qualified HVAC technician can identify the cause of the problem and fix the issue.

The Condenser Does Not Turn On

The condenser may experience different issues that result in the air conditioner not working well. If you suspect that the condenser may be the problem, ensure that your air conditioning unit receives power properly and that the thermostat has batteries.

Also, check the fuse box or breaker if the AC unit doesn’t receive power. Lower the temperature as low as possible to see if the air conditioner turns on. Then, try raising temperatures to see if the heater turns on. If the problems persist, the issue may be a faulty compressor or motor, so call a professional to assess the situation.

The Air Conditioner Has Weak Airflow

Weak airflow from the AC unit often signals a failing compressor and the need for service or repairs. On the other hand, if you notice that some rooms receive cold air while others do not, the problem may be the duct. The issues highlighted are not costly to repair, but if you ignore the issues, the damage that results could cost you a lot more in the long run.

The Air Conditioner Has Bad Smells and Odd Sounds

If you notice an unpleasant odor and suspect that the smell emanates from the HVAC system, deal with the issue promptly. The most likely cause of odd odors is burnt-out insulation wire.

A musty smell may also likely signal mold growth in the air conditioner, which may negatively affect your family's health. Call a qualified expert to remove the mold before it causes irreparable damage to your unit.

Additionally, if you notice unusual sounds such as grating, grinding, and squealing coming from your air conditioner, you may need to repair the AC unit. Strange sounds usually indicate something seriously wrong with the air con unit.

The HVAC System Has Moisture Around It

Your HVAC system should not have any moisture around it. If you find moisture around your air conditioner, the most likely cause is refrigerant and condensate leaks. Another cause of water around this area would be issues with the drain line or drain pan.

Along with the leaks, you might experience rising electric bills, warm air from the vents, and your home taking longer to cool. You may also notice bubbling sounds, ice on the refrigerant line, and frozen evaporator coils.

Consult an HVAC professional as soon as you can because refrigerant can present a safety risk for children and pets, as it is poisonous.

Contact an HVAC specialist when you experience any of these issues. Here at Central York Corp, we have experience of over five decades of serving the residents of Central Virginia and Richmond. We have a team of qualified installation mechanics and service technicians who are always ready to serve you. Contact us today. We will be happy to answer any questions or concerns you have.