5 Common AC Problems and Solutions
Exploring the top 5 frequently encountered problems with air conditioning systems and practical solutions to address them
AC Not Cooling
Thermostat
Calibration
Improperly calibrated
thermostats may not
signal the cooling system
to activate, leading to
inefficient cooling.
Thermostat Battery
Dead or weak thermostat
batteries can cause
communication issues
between the thermostat
and AC unit, preventing
proper cooling.
Clogged Air Filters
Dust and debris buildup
in air filters restricts
airflow, reducing the AC
unit's cooling efficiency.
Regular Filter
Maintenance
Regularly checking and
replacing air filters helps
maintain optimal airflow
and cooling
performance.
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2
Frequent AC Cycling
Misconfigured
Thermostat Settings
Energy Inefficiency
Incorrectly calibrated or malfunctioning
thermostat can cause inconsistent
heating or cooling, leading to excessive
AC cycling.
An outdated or improperly sized AC unit
may struggle to maintain a consistent
interior temperature, resulting in more
frequent cycling to compensate.
Compressor Issues
Frequent AC cycling can also signify a
serious problem, such as a failing
compressor, requiring professional
assistance to diagnose and resolve.
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Foul Smell from AC
Neglected air filters and unchecked mold growth
can lead to unpleasant odors in air conditioning
units. Over time, dust and debris accumulate on the
filters, generating foul smells that make the
environment uncomfortable. Additionally, mold
tends to thrive in damp, dark spaces within cooling
equipment, further contributing to undesirable odors.
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hvac-maintenance/5-common-ac-problems-and-
solutions/
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4
Preventive Measures
Professional Tune-ups
Schedule annual professional
maintenance to identify and address
any potential issues before they
become major problems, such as
refrigerant leaks or electrical
malfunctions.
Regular Filter Maintenance
Change air filters regularly to ensure
proper airflow and prevent issues like
reduced cooling efficiency and
unpleasant odors.
Drain Line Cleaning
Clear any blockages in the drain line to prevent water leaks
and potential water damage to your home.
Thermostat Calibration
Ensure your thermostat is properly calibrated to avoid issues
with inconsistent cooling or excessive cycling of the AC unit.
Mold Inspection
Regularly inspect your AC unit for any
signs of mold growth, which can
contribute to foul smells and
potentially impact air quality.
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5
Troubleshooting Tips
Check Thermostat
Examine Condenser
Inspect Filters
Verify Refrigerant Levels
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6
Resetting the AC
Once you've addressed any
visible issues, reset the AC unit by
turning the power back on at the
circuit breaker. This can help
resolve non-cooling problems by
refreshing the system's
operations.
Reset the system
Start by powering off the air
conditioning unit, either at the
thermostat or the circuit breaker.
This will prevent further damage
and allow you to inspect the unit
safely.
Turn off the AC unit
Examine the AC unit, both the
indoor and outdoor components,
for any obvious problems such as
blocked air filters, debris buildup,
or damaged parts. Address any
issues you find.
Inspect for visible issues
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