When the summer heat kicks in, your air conditioning unit becomes one of the hardest-working systems in your home. However, when it breaks down, especially during a heatwave, it’s more than just an inconvenience. Emergency repairs can be costly and leave you without relief when you need it most. Most AC failures have common causes, many of which are preventable. In this guide, we will examine five common AC problems and discuss how to prevent them from occurring.
1. Dirty Air Filters
A dirty air filter is one of the most common and avoidable reasons for AC failure. When the filter clogs with dust, pollen, and debris, it restricts airflow, forcing your system to work harder. This can lead to frozen evaporator coils, overheating, poor cooling performance, and short cycling.
You can easily prevent AC breakdowns of this type by checking your air filter once a month, especially during heavy use in summer. If it is dirty, change it. We recommend replacing air filters at least every 90 days, depending on the filter type, the presence of pets in your home, and your indoor air quality needs. Upgrade to a high-efficiency filter that is compatible with your system if you have allergies or live in a dusty environment.
2. Low Refrigerant
Another one of the common AC problems you can encounter is low refrigerant. Refrigerant is essential for your air conditioner to keep your home cool. If the system develops a leak or wasn’t charged properly during installation, you may notice that there is warm air blowing from vents. Ice may build up on the refrigerant lines or coils, causing reduced airflow. You may notice a hissing or bubbling noise coming from the cooling unit. Another sign of low refrigerant levels is having higher energy bills.
Operating with low refrigerant not only reduces comfort but can damage the compressor, which is one of the most expensive parts to replace. If you suspect that the refrigerant levels are off, schedule annual maintenance with one of our technicians so we can check the coolant and inspect for leaks. If your home has a cooling system that has an older unit that uses R-22 (Freon), consider upgrading to a newer system with eco-friendly refrigerants that meet current regulations. These newer systems not only use refrigerants that are less harmful to the environment but also tend to be more energy-efficient.
3. Electrical Issues
Your air conditioner relies on a network of electrical components to power the compressor and fan motors. Wear and tear, as well as power surges, can prevent the unit from turning on. It can also cause sudden system shutdowns, which may disrupt your comfort levels. Burned wires and frequent blown fuses may indicate an electrical issue in your system. Ensure that a qualified HVAC technician from our team inspects electrical components during your annual tune-up. If your system struggles to start, don’t ignore it! Call Polestar Plumbing right away so we can find the reason behind the unit not starting.
4. Blocked Condenser Coils
The outdoor condenser coil releases heat removed from inside your home. If dirt, grass clippings, or debris block the coil, your AC has to work much harder to do its job. This can result in reduced system efficiency and premature wear on the compressor. Keep the area around your outdoor unit clear of leaves and debris. Gently hose off the coil at least once a season, being careful not to bend the fins. Schedule coil cleaning as part of your annual AC service to maintain an efficient system.
5. Lack of Routine Maintenance
Neglecting routine AC maintenance is one of the most significant contributors to system failure. Without regular checkups, minor problems go unnoticed and turn into expensive repairs. Maintenance helps catch weak or faulty components, poor airflow, duct issues, refrigerant inefficiencies, and early signs of motor failure.
Air conditioner maintenance keeps your cooling system running smoothly. Schedule an annual AC tune-up in the spring before the cooling season begins. Consider signing up for a maintenance plan with Polestar Plumbing, which often includes priority service and discounts. Track the age and performance of your system. If your cooling system is over 10 years old and needs frequent repairs, consider replacement options.
Contact Polestar Plumbing Today
Air conditioning systems can last a long time, but they require regular tune-ups to perform at their best. Most AC breakdowns result from preventable issues, like clogged filters, electrical wear, and neglected maintenance. At Polestar Plumbing, we’ve been guiding the comfort of Kansas City residents since 1984. For your heating and cooling needs, contact Polestar Plumbing today!
