Summertime in Florida is always a mixed bag, with our many beaches on the one hand, and record heat and humidity on the other. But while we count on our AC units to keep us cool and alive between treks out-of-doors, it’s the summer, when they have to work the hardest, that many air conditioners will start to give you trouble.
We’ve put together a list of the common complaints you might encounter. Not every problem will prove fatal for your air conditioner, and some of them can be addressed by the intrepid do-it-yourself homeowner, but each one is a warning sign that your AC unit needs some attention. And the last thing you want to do without is air conditioning in Florida during a year that continues to promise record high temperatures.
AC Is Not Blowing Cold Air
Check your AC’s thermostat, make sure it is set to 69 degrees, reading the correct air temperature, and check to see if cool air is coming out the air ducts. If you find that your thermostat is not working properly, it could be a low battery — not every model of thermostat has an internal battery, but those that do sometimes run low before the indicator light turns on. The thermostat, itself, may also require replacement, and this is typically a job within the reach of the DIY homeowner.
Check your AC’s filter and make sure it is clean. A dirty filter will restrict airflow, and if the filters are not changed regularly, the condenser will start to collect sediments. This can cause blockages or freeze the coils on your air conditioner, preventing it from running properly.
There could also be problems with the condenser, refrigerants, and other internal elements that should only be addressed by a professional. If you cannot see any obstructions to the airflow and the thermostat seems to function properly, listen for other signs to tell your AC repair contractor about. Irregular sounds in the interior or exterior unit, leaks, or unusual compressor cycles can help point the way towards the fault. For example, if your AC spends a very long time in an “on” cycle without cooling your home, it could be a problem with the condenser. If the AC cycles between “on” and “off” cycles very briefly and frequently, it could indicate an internal obstruction or an issue with the refrigerant.
AC Has Reduced Airflow
As always, check your air filter and replace it if necessary. If the filter and coils appear to be clear, the problem could be in the ductwork. Over time, a blockage could have developed, but it’s not impossible for the ductwork to also become damaged, disrupted, or even disconnected. In this case, a trip to your crawlspace might identify the problem, but you’ll need to call a professional contractor to help you fix it.
AC Is Leaking Water
Check your AC’s drain both inside and outside the house to make sure it is not clogged. These pipes can be snaked with tools from a local hardware store, but many homeowners can find it difficult to work through all the bends without professional tools. That said, if you can’t find the source of the leak, or are unable to reach, you won’t be able to repair it yourself.
AC Won’t Turn On
First, check to make sure your problem is not simply the result of a power surge. The fix is simple — just test and reset the fuse. However, if this does not resolve your problem, a part may have suffered damage or simply worn out from the constant use of your AC system. At this point, you will need the help of an AC expert technician, to repair or replace the unit.
A little preventive maintenance (and religiously changing your air filters) can go a long way towards prolonging the life of your air conditioner. Better still, if you’re in the habit of taking care of it and having it inspected before the summer heat kicks in, you’ll have more warning before something goes wrong. And when you do have a problem, large or small, give us a call or contact us through our website. We are here to help!Â
