With the hottest days of summer upon us, having a properly functioning air conditioner is crucial. As usage increases during extreme heat, the risk of AC breakdowns also increases. In this article, we will answer a common question: "What would cause an AC to stop working?"
Let's explore the underlying causes in more detail and provide homeowners like you with actionable checks they can perform.
6 Reasons Why Your AC Stopped Working
From leaks to coil issues, here are 6 potential reasons why your AC stopped working.
Thermostat Issues — One potential cause of your air conditioner problem is a thermostat malfunction. Although checking your thermostat may seem too obvious, it can often be a culprit. Factors such as incorrect settings or an accumulation of debris can prevent your thermostat from functioning properly. To ensure your thermostat is set to correctly, you can refer to the user manual for the recommended temperature and mode settings for your specific model. Additionally, regularly clean the thermostat to remove any dust or debris that might interfere with its operation.
Leaks — Another reason why your AC stopped working could be due to a leak. In fact, there are multiple components within your air conditioner that can develop leaks and hinder its performance. The two primary culprits are the ducts and/or the refrigerant.
For one, leaking ducts can cause cool air to escape before it reaches your living spaces, reducing overall efficiency. Secondly, the refrigerant, a crucial liquid inside the coils, absorbs and releases heat to cool the air. When refrigerant levels are low due to leaks, the system cannot effectively cool your home.
Coil Issues — Coils are another essential component of your air conditioner, and when they malfunction, the entire system can be disrupted. One common issue is that coils can freeze, causing the air conditioner to run without cooling the air effectively. Another problem is that coils can accumulate dirt, which prevents them from accessing the air they need to cool properly. Regularly cleaning and maintaining the coils can help prevent these issues and ensure your air conditioner operates efficiently.
At Estes Services, we offer excellent Maintenance Membership Plans to keep your air conditioner coils clean and functioning optimally, ensuring your system remains reliable and efficient throughout the year.
Clogging — Much like leaks, various parts of your air conditioner can become clogged. One such part is the drain, which you may not realize is crucial to your unit's operation. The drain collects condensation created during the cooling process, and if it becomes clogged, the AC will not function properly. Additionally, the air filter can accumulate dirt and debris, preventing air from flowing into the conditioner.
Regular maintenance, such as cleaning the drain and replacing or cleaning the air filter, can help prevent these issues and ensure your unit runs smoothly.
Electric Issues — Since your air conditioner is powered by electricity, any electric issues can prevent your unit from functioning properly. One common electric problem is the circuit breaker being tripped, stopping the system from running entirely. Circuit breakers can trip due to overloaded circuits, short circuits, or other electrical faults. If your air conditioner suddenly stops working, checking the circuit breaker should be one of your first steps. If the issue persists, consult a licensed and trained professional to identify and resolve the underlying electrical problem.
Low Refrigerant — As previously mentioned, refrigerant is the liquid essential for cooling the air; without it, the air cannot be cooled. If the refrigerant level is low, refilling it should restore the unit's functionality.
What to Check For When Your AC Isn't Working Properly
Check your thermostat — Double-check that your thermostat is set to cool rather than heat. This simple step can often resolve issues quickly.
Listen for any unusual noises: If you hear unusual sounds from your AC unit, note the type of noise and call an AC repairman promptly to diagnose the problem. The following sounds can indicate potential issues that require attention from an HVAC professional:
Grinding or Screeching: These noises often suggest problems with the fan motor or belt. It could indicate worn-out bearings or a loose component that needs immediate inspection and repair.
Clicking or Banging: Clicking sounds may indicate an issue with electrical components, such as a faulty relay switch or capacitor. Banging noises might suggest loose or broken parts within the unit.
Hissing or Whistling: These noises could indicate leaks in the refrigerant line or ductwork, which can negatively affect your unit's efficiency.
Rattling or Clanking: Loose parts or debris inside the unit can cause rattling or clanking sounds. This could indicate loose screws, debris in the fan blades, or components that have come loose over time.
Continuous Cycling Sounds: If your AC unit frequently turns on and off (short-cycling), it could indicate various issues, such as a malfunctioning thermostat, a dirty air filter, or an improperly sized unit.
By listening for and identifying unusual noises, you can help the technician find the root cause of the problem.
Check your circuit breaker: If the circuit breaker is tripped, attempt to reset it once. If it trips again, avoid further attempts, and schedule service for an AC repair.
Look around for leaks: Water around your AC unit could indicate internal leaks, a dirty air filter, or frozen coils. Turn off the unit immediately if you notice leaks, and seek professional repair as soon as possible.
Change the air filter: A clogged air filter can cause various AC issues. Replace the filter regularly to maintain efficient operation. In fact, many unit breakdowns can be attributed to dirty air filters. According to ENERGY STAR, a dirty filter will slow down air flow and make the system work harder to keep you cool, which wastes energy.
Call for help: AC repairs require specialized knowledge and equipment. For your safety and to ensure your AC unit is repaired properly, it's best to consult with a licensed and trained HVAC technician like at Estes Services. Schedule service with us today.
Fix Your AC Now, and Keep Cool with Estes Services
When your AC stops working, the easiest and fastest way to get it fixed is to call the pros at Estes Services. As a family-owned and operated business, we offer the best quality service you can count on. We will get your unit back up and running in no time. Schedule service today. It's that Easy; it's Estes!
