Common Summer AC Repairs and How to Prevent Them

When summer temperatures soar in Texas and Oklahoma, your air conditioner (AC) becomes a vital part of keeping your home or business comfortable. However, the heat also places a significant strain on your system, which can result in unexpected breakdowns and costly repairs. At Advanced Cooling, we understand the frustration of a malfunctioning AC during a scorching heatwave. That’s why it’s essential to be aware of the most common summer AC repairs and how to prevent them, ensuring your system runs smoothly throughout the season.

Refrigerant Leaks

Problem: Refrigerant is the substance that cools the air in your AC system by absorbing heat from inside your home and releasing it outside. If there’s a refrigerant leak, your AC system won’t be able to cool your home efficiently, and it may even stop cooling altogether. This is a common issue during summer when the system works the hardest, and a low refrigerant level can damage the compressor, the heart of your AC system.

Symptoms of a refrigerant leak:

• Reduced cooling performance
• Ice buildup on the coils
• Higher energy bills
• Hissing or bubbling sounds coming from the AC unit

How to prevent it:

• Regular maintenance: Having your AC system professionally inspected and maintained at least once a year helps detect potential refrigerant leaks early. Technicians will check the refrigerant level and inspect for any leaks or wear and tear.
• Seal air leaks: Ensure that your ducts and insulation are sealed properly to avoid refrigerant loss. Proper insulation and well-maintained ducts help maintain your system’s efficiency.

Dirty or Clogged Air Filters

Problem: Air filters trap dust, dirt, and debris from the air to prevent them from entering the system’s internal components. Over time, however, these filters can become clogged, reducing airflow and causing the AC to work harder. This can lead to poor cooling performance, higher energy bills, and even system breakdowns if the airflow is restricted for too long.

Symptoms of clogged filters:

• Poor air circulation
• Reduced cooling efficiency
• Ice buildup on the coils
• Increased energy consumption

How to prevent it:

• Replace filters regularly: Air filters should be replaced every 1–3 months, especially during the summer months when the system is used more frequently. If you have pets or live in an area with high dust or pollen, you may need to replace them more often.
• Use high-efficiency filters: Consider upgrading to high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters or other filters designed to capture more particles. These can help improve indoor air quality and prevent the buildup of dirt in your system.

Frozen Coils

Problem: Frozen evaporator coils are another common issue during summer, often caused by poor airflow due to a clogged filter or low refrigerant levels. When the coils freeze, they can no longer absorb heat, and your AC will stop cooling efficiently. If left unchecked, frozen coils can cause further damage to your system, leading to expensive repairs.

Symptoms of frozen coils:

• AC blows warm air or no air
• Ice buildup on the evaporator coils or refrigerant lines
• Water pooling around the unit

How to prevent it:

• Maintain airflow: Make sure your air filters are clean, and there are no obstructions around your vents and air intakes. Proper airflow ensures that your coils can absorb heat efficiently.
• Fix refrigerant leaks immediately: If you suspect a refrigerant leak, have it repaired right away to avoid the risk of frozen coils. Scheduling routine maintenance can help catch refrigerant issues before they cause significant damage.

Compressor Failure

Problem: The compressor is the most critical component of your air conditioner—it pumps refrigerant through the system to facilitate heat exchange. If the compressor fails, your AC will stop cooling altogether. Compressor failure can be caused by various factors, including electrical issues, refrigerant leaks, or simply excessive wear and tear.

Symptoms of a failing compressor:

• AC blows warm air
• Strange noises (buzzing, clicking, or humming) coming from the unit
• The system doesn’t turn on or shuts off unexpectedly

How to prevent it:

• Schedule regular maintenance: A professional technician can check for potential compressor problems before they escalate. Keeping your system clean and well-maintained will reduce the risk of compressor failure.
• Address electrical issues: Ensure that your system’s electrical components, including capacitors and wiring, are inspected regularly to prevent electrical problems that could lead to compressor failure.

Faulty Thermostat

Problem: Your thermostat is responsible for regulating your home’s temperature by sending signals to the air conditioner to turn on or off. If your thermostat is faulty or miscalibrated, your system may turn on and off at the wrong times, causing your home to be too hot or too cold. A malfunctioning thermostat can also lead to increased energy consumption as your AC works unnecessarily to adjust temperatures.

Symptoms of a faulty thermostat:

• AC runs continuously or cycles on and off rapidly
• Temperature is inconsistent
• The thermostat display is blank or inaccurate

How to prevent it:

• Calibrate your thermostat: Have your thermostat checked and calibrated during regular maintenance visits. This will ensure that it’s reading and regulating the temperature accurately.
• Upgrade to a smart thermostat: Consider upgrading to a smart thermostat, which offers more precise temperature control and can be programmed to optimize cooling cycles. Smart thermostats also help you monitor energy usage and reduce unnecessary operation.

Clogged Condensate Drain

Problem: The condensate drain carries excess moisture out of your AC unit. If the drain becomes clogged with dirt, algae, or debris, water can back up into the system, leading to water damage and mold growth. In some cases, the backup can cause the system to shut down to prevent flooding.

Symptoms of a clogged condensate drain:

• Water pooling around the AC unit
• Unpleasant odors coming from the AC
• Frequent system shutdowns

How to prevent it:

• Schedule drain cleaning: Regularly check and clean the condensate drain to ensure it’s free from blockages. This can be done during a routine maintenance visit.
• Install a drain line filter: A drain line filter can prevent debris from entering the drain, reducing the likelihood of clogs.

Worn-Out Capacitors

Problem: Capacitors help start and run the motors in your air conditioning system, including the fan motor and compressor. Over time, capacitors can wear out due to electrical stress or age. A failing capacitor can cause the system to malfunction, with the fan or compressor failing to start.

Symptoms of a worn-out capacitor:

• Humming or clicking sounds coming from the unit
• AC doesn’t turn on or is unresponsive
• The system trips the circuit breaker

How to prevent it:

Schedule regular inspections: Capacitors can wear out over time, but regular maintenance can help catch issues before they lead to a complete failure. During an inspection, the technician can test the capacitor’s functionality and replace it before it causes any problems.

Conclusion

Summer is the time when your air conditioner is put to the test, and knowing the most common AC problems can help you avoid costly repairs and discomfort. Regular maintenance, including filter changes, refrigerant checks, and annual inspections, is key to preventing common AC breakdowns during the summer months. At Advanced Cooling, we specialize in keeping your cooling system in top shape. Whether you need a repair, maintenance, or a full replacement, our expert team is here to provide you with the most courteous, friendly, and affordable service. Give us a call today to schedule your AC tune-up and ensure your system keeps running smoothly all summer long!