Quick Fixes for Common Summer AC Problems until the Pros Arrive

Summer in Pennsylvania can get really scorching and stifling with extreme heat and humidity. Nobody can think of surviving without an air conditioner!

Unfortunately, most air conditioners break down during the hottest months! Do you know why? Particularly due to increased workload as your AC operates constantly, straining the components. Indeed, you require professional air conditioning services, but until then, do you have to sweat it? Are there fixes for temporary relief from the discomfort?

Do not panic because we at GB Heating and Cooling are here to explore the common AC problems in summer and quick fixes for them. We will discuss effective solutions that can be performed without expertise or specialized tools. Let’s begin troubleshooting!

Troubleshooting Common AC Problems

• Insufficient Cooling

It is perhaps one of the most annoying problems when your air conditioner is turned on, yet you feel uncomfortable! The air is not just cool enough, or you have weak airflow. The prevalent reasons are dirty or clogged air filters, low refrigerant, blocked vents, leaks, or a filthy condenser unit.

Fix– Turn off your AC and remove the air filters. Clean them thoroughly or replace them if required. If your condenser unit is blocked by tall grass, shrubs, dry leaves or twigs, remove them to ensure a clean space. For blocked vents, rearrange your furniture, upholstery, rugs, etc., so that air can flow freely. However, you have to seek professional assistance for refrigerant leaks.

• Short or Frequent Cycling

Another predominant issue is short cycling, which occurs when your air conditioner frequently shuts off and turns on. It primarily occurs when you have an oversized system, thermostat issues, dirty air filters, low refrigerant, or a frozen evaporator coil.

Fix– Again, low refrigerant due to leaks needs expert air conditioner repair. However, a frozen evaporator coil is often due to excessively clogged air filters when the coil becomes too cold and ice builds up. Cleaning or replacing air filters can fix a frozen evaporator coil. Your thermostat may malfunction if it receives direct sunlight. So, consider getting it checked or relocated.

• Unusual Noises

Your AC operates relatively quietly, except in some cases, you may hear strange noises like squeaking, screeching, banging, buzzing, rattling, or ticking. Not only are these noises distracting, but they also indicate underlying problems.

Fix– Most of the strange noises occur due to mechanical or electrical issues like broken components, failing motors, loose wiring, screws, or panels, debris buildup, and electrical failures. Therefore, do not wait further and call a professional immediately.

• Water Leaks

Whether inside or outside, water leaks are not a good sign. The prevalent reasons are clogged condensate pipe, rusted or cracked drain pan, frozen evaporator coil, or failure of condensate pump.

Fix– Algae, molds, or debris accumulation clogs the condensate pipe and water backs up, causing leaks. So, clean the condensate pipe thoroughly and prevent organic growth. Dirty air filters or low refrigerant can lead to a frozen evaporator coil. You must seek air conditioning companies to resolve the underlying cause and replace the rusted condensate pan.

• Unpleasant Odors

While the musty smell indicates molds and mildew, the smell of rotten eggs implies a gas leak. A burning or dusty smell is often due to the burning of AC components. Call an expert immediately. If there are other foul odors, it can be due to a dead animal or a backed-up sewage channel.

Fix– For musty odor, do not allow excess moisture buildup and encourage regular cleaning. However, for other unpleasant smells, call a professional.

Final Thoughts

Though you have temporary fixes, always hire a professional for long-term benefits. GB Heating and Cooling is a renowned professional for air conditioner installation in Bucks County, Pennsylvania. Nonetheless, we also repair and replace air conditioner systems effectively using cutting-edge tools and techniques.