Your family should be able to enjoy the AC this summer without having to deal with the sweltering heat of the outdoors. However, if the HVAC electric motor fails, you may become so uncomfortable that you’ll be unable to sleep or work. Here are some of the reasons why air conditioners fail.

Why is Your AC Not Working? 

1. Leaking Refrigerant

Most air conditioners use compressors to move liquid or gas refrigerant between an indoor and outdoor unit. The coolant transfers warm indoor air to the outside and moves cool air inside. If the metal coils that house the refrigerant leak, the system will fail, and you’ll notice the house warming up while running the AC. 

2. Frozen Coils

Homeowners must change their AC filters and hire professional duct cleaners to remove dust, hair, and pet dander. These contaminants will lower the air quality and can clog the ducts, potentially causing the AC coils to freeze because they can’t transfer heat. If the refrigerant freezes, it won’t move between the indoor and outdoor units, preventing the AC from cooling the house.

3. Electrical Troubles

Appliances with large power supplies, like HVAC electric motors, must have their own electrical circuits to prevent tripping the circuit by using too much power. Have an electrician rewire your home if the AC can’t run while you use certain outlets or turn on power switches.

If this isn’t the issue, the HVAC electric motor may be damaged from moisture exposure. The motor’s control wiring can corrode from precipitation, leaks, or dogs using the exterior unit as their preferred bathroom spot. 

4. Disconnected Ducts

Homes usually feature ductwork that circulates cool air from the AC unit through the house. These large pipes can become unattached from one another as they slowly move apart over time. Incorrectly installed ducts may bang when the AC turns on, indicating that they’re taking a large amount of force as the air starts to move. This issue can separate the ducts, causing leaks that reduce the amount of air flowing through the vents and significantly lower the cooling power.

Homeowners concerned about HVAC failure should contact A-1 Electric Motor Service in Park Hills, OH. The locally-owned and -operated company serves the Greater Cincinnati Tri-State Area with repairs and electric motor sales. Call the HVAC electric motor specialists at (859) 291-1351 or visit the website for information on their top brands like Zoeller®, AO Smith®, and Baldor®.