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What are the Most Common Air Conditioner Problems & their solutions?

The arrival of the summer means using the air conditioner often. The air conditioner helps us by releasing cold air during those warm phases. There is no denying that the air conditioner is one of the best appliances invented to date. But no appliance or device is perfect; the same goes for an air conditioner. 

But many people are talking about the problems and their solutions. In today’s time, the air conditioner is activated every season. However, the conditioner unit increases during the summer, but you can’t escape from air conditioner issues. 

The air conditioner even needs a regular tune-up. This is needed to maintain your air conditioner. If your air conditioner suddenly stops working, it is the worst situation you can ever face. 

Common Problems and their Solutions

These problems can be signs that your AC is not in proper condition. Some common AC-related issues, including insufficient cooling and water leakage, are discussed below. Not only issues but also solutions are given along with them. Many folks need to be made aware of what to do in such situations. 

  1. Weak Airflow

If you notice that the pressure is not properly releasing and you are experiencing cold and hot drafts. Then, it means that your air conditioner is having issues. The fans won’t be able to push enough air for many different reasons. 

For example, due to a dirty filter or faulty blower motor. Other reasons are vent blockage, low refrigerant level, and leaking ducts can also be the issue. If you face such issues during summer, it can be very annoying.

Solution of Weak Airflow Issues

The weak airflow can be due to a faulty thermostat. Thus, try readjusting it and see if it works or not. It might be possible that the vents are blocked due to dirt and dust. You just have to remove the obstacles that are creating the blockage. In most cases, it becomes difficult to pinpoint the exact cause, so it would be better to get professional help to fix the issue.

  1. The Air Conditioner Fan is Not Working

You must have observed that there is a fan on the outer side of the unit. The outside fan of the unit transfers the heat from indoor to outdoor. If the outside fan does not work properly, it won’t transfer the heat properly. 

Thus, it results in overheating of the compressor. The worst scenario is when it causes internal damage to the compressor. Finally, it leads to the replacement stage.

Solutions to AC Fan Not Working

If the fan is not working, there is a high chance of issues with the system wiring or some loose components. When you come across such a situation, you simply have to remove the outer casing and inspect the problem visually. 

Make sure to turn off the air conditioner before making any changes. If you are facing difficulties in diagnosing the issue, it is better to hire a professional. They have enough experience to fix the problem.

  1. Faulty in the Electrical Control

Often, it has been seen because the air conditioner is turned off and on so frequently that the compressor and the fan deteriorate. To start the unit, the compressor, the condenser, and the blower motor make the connection. 

Any distribution because of corrosion of wires or the terminal can stop the compressor and the motor from properly functioning. An electrical failure can also lead to power surges. Thus, acid build-up can occur, causing further air conditioner issues. 

Solution for Faulty Electrical Control

First, you need to check the electrical connection for faulty electrical control. If you can’t settle the issue, then it is better to get help from professionals. Professionals have experience, and they can easily determine the problem. And take major steps to fix the electrical issues. Also, remember that regular maintenance will help you prevent the issues. 

  1. Leaking Ducts

Generally, the ductwork is responsible for carrying the cold air to the entire house. But if you observe any leak or hole in the duct, it won’t affect the entire AC functioning. Though the air conditioner might run for a while, you might feel it is not turned on later. 

This leakage affects the air quality as the hole init can suck the dirt and other impurities. This debris can clog the air filter, leading to improper cooling and heating in your house.

Solution of Leaking Ducts

The first thing you need to do is determine the hold or the leak in the duct. If you cannot determine the leakage, turn on the AC at full speed. And the airflow will determine the leakage. However, it only works if the blowing air unit is in proper condition. 

Eventually, the leak occurs when the two ducts are joined, so place your hand near the joints to feel the air. After determining the leak, you can use foil-faced tape to seal the hole. Remember that the tape is not the long-term solution. It would be better if you use a mastic air duct sealant. 

The appearance is quite sticky but hardens after drying. You can apply it to the holes or the gaps visible on the ducts. If you are not confident enough, you can get help from professionals.

  1. Bad Smell is Coming Out 

There is a possibility of getting a bad odor, and it is due to the outgrowth of molds. You can also get a fire smell, which indicates some electrical component is burning inside the unit. If you get a gas smell, it might be due to the release of methyl mercaptan. It can be very dangerous, so you must be careful about it.

Solution for Bad Odour Coming Out from the Unit

You need to clean the air conditioner regularly. Remember to get help from a professional if you come across any electrical or gas leakage. They have good enough experience, and they know what to do in such a situation. 

  1. The Air Conditioner keeps Tripping the Circuit Breaker

If the air conditioner keeps tripping the circuit breaker, then there can be a variety of reasons behind it. Some reasons are power surge, capacitor failure, low refrigerant level, dirty filter or coil, etc.; as soon as you notice the problem, turn off the air conditioner. But don’t try to reset the breaker, as it might cause a fire. 

Solution for Circuit Breaker Tripping

You can not DIY a solution for every issue. The best suggestion would be to contact the experts. As it is all about electrical components, and it can be dangerous. 

  1. The Air Conditioner Making Weird Noises

You might hear strange, weird noises coming from the unit. It is a signal that something is wrong with the AC. It can be possible that the compressor or the motor is not working properly, and thus, you are getting a grinding sound. Another indication is an obstruction in the AC fan or the capacitor issue, etc., in case you get a dubbing noise, it is due to leakage in the refrigerant or excess moisture in the unit.  

Solution For Noises Coming From The AC Unit

We recommend you not to ignore these indications. It might be an indication that your unit is in the worst condition. Make sure to contact an AC professional. They will easily determine the cause of the sound. And will fix the air conditioner. 

  1. Thermostat Malfunctioning

Thermostat malfunctioning is one of the most common air conditioner problems you might face. If you observe that the air conditioner short cycles and releases warm air. Then, it is completely due to a faulty thermostat. 

There can be a lot of possibilities, like dust, corrosion build-up, or the batteries are dead. Loose wires or screws inside the thermostat can also affect the unit. Direct sunlight can also have a bad impact on the thermostat. Incorrect calibration can also be the reason for the thermostat not working.

Solution for Thermostat Malfunctioning

If you have a battery-operated thermostat, you need to check if the batteries are working properly. If dust is the reason behind this, remove the cover and soft brush it. It would be better if you could get help from a professional. 

We also recommend you place the thermostat in the room you frequently use—eliminating the old one with the smart one. A smart thermostat will help you to save electricity. 

Conclusion….

So there are the most common air conditioner issues along with the solutions. The solutions are well explained, so you won’t have trouble handling such issues. With this information, you can safely access the air conditioner. Hopefully, the above-mentioned information will help you.