With summer on the way, you’ll want to ensure you have a reliable air conditioning unit to keep cool. These systems work by pulling hot air from the home and cooling it down with a refrigerant, but since they rely on electrical parts and are exposed to the elements, they can experience wear that compromises their efficiency. If you notice your AC isn’t working properly, there are a few common problems that may be interfering with its function. To help you care for your unit, here are some of the issues it could be facing and how to address them.

Common Trouble AC Units Experience

1. Electrical Malfunction

The electrical controls that operate components like the compressor and fan may corrode or wear out over time. In some cases, connections may come loose and make your air conditioning stop working. If you notice your unit is repeatedly turning on and off despite your settings, schedule an inspection with an HVAC contractor to check whether any elements in your panel are malfunctioning or disconnected.

2. Leaking Refrigerant

ACs use refrigerants to keep inside temperatures cool and comfortable. If you notice that your unit isn’t cooling down like it used to, you may need a refrigerant refill. If that doesn’t solve the issue, or you notice that coolant levels get low very quickly after filling, you may have a leak. To get your system operational again, call a contractor to inspect it. 

3. Clogged Filter

The filter of your air conditioning unit captures dirt, dust, and other particles to improve the quality of your indoor air. HVAC repair professionals recommend cleaning or replacing filters every three months so they don’t become clogged with grime. Neglecting filters reduces air flow, sends allergens into your home, and may even cause other components to fail, so ensure you’re getting this maintenance to preserve your air quality.

4. Faulty Thermostat

The thermostat sends temperature settings to your equipment. If this device is failing, your air conditioning unit won’t know to turn on and off based on your climate preferences. As a result, your AC might run continuously or stop running before your room reaches the desired temperature. Sometimes the thermostat is dirty or needs to be re-calibrated, but if it’s failed, you’ll need an upgrade.

5. Coil Damage

Your unit has two sets of coils. Evaporator coils are inside and take indoor heat from the air, while the condenser coils are located outside and release that heat outdoors. Coils, particularly condenser coils, can corrode or become dirty since they’re exposed to the elements. If this happens, their efficiency will be reduced and your AC won’t be able to push the heat from your home to the outside.

When your air conditioning unit isn’t working as it should, call Marvin’s Heating & Air Conditioning in San Marcos, TX. These HVAC contractors bring more than 36 years of experience to every heating and cooling system in their care. They’re experts in a variety of models for residential and commercial properties, and will assist with HVAC repairs as well as furnace and air conditioning installations. Call (512) 396-4791 for an appointment or visit them online to view their discounts.