How Do I Diagnose What’s Wrong with My AC
Every year, Canadians eagerly wait for summer as the days get longer and the sun gets brighter. With the promise of warmth and outdoor fun through park picnics and beach visits, it truly is a magical time of year. But amidst the rising temperatures, there is one necessary companion: the air conditioner (AC). During these sweltering months, nearly two-thirds (64%) of Canadian households use AC units to keep cool.
However, what happens when your reliable air conditioning unit suddenly stops working properly? It may not turn on at all or maybe it just makes strange noises or blows warm air.
Well, don’t worry! In this blog, we will cover some of the most common AC problems and how to identify them along with helpful tips to fix them yourself. So whether you are from Vancouver, Toronto, or anywhere in between; diagnosing symptoms shown by your A/C can help ensure comfortability throughout.
How to Diagnose Air Conditioners for Problems
Diagnosing air conditioner problems can seem daunting, but breaking it down into manageable steps makes the process smoother. Begin by familiarizing yourself with the fundamental components of your AC unit; understanding these elements is akin to grasping the basics before tackling complex equations in algebra. Next, pinpoint the type of issue your AC is encountering—whether it’s airflow-related, concerns the unit’s operation, or involves drainage.
Lastly, make a reasoned decision about whether to attempt a DIY fix or enlist professional assistance. By following these steps, you’ll be better equipped to address AC malfunctions effectively.
10 Common Ways to Diagnose AC Problems
When your AC does not function properly, identifying the issue becomes essential for quick resolution. Discussed below are the ten common methods to accurately diagnose AC problems and keep your system running smoothly:
Problem 1: Not Turning ON
There may be times when your cooling unit fails to turn on. You might think there is an issue with the remote but that’s not always the case.
Diagnose: One of the reasons for your AC not turning ON can be an electrical circuit failure. You can check the fuse box for any problem by switching the circuit breaker ON and OFF. However, it’s better to call an HVAC professional or an electrician for assistance.
Problem 2: Constantly Going ON and OFF
This process is known as short cycling and you can diagnose AC of this nature when there is an unclean evaporator, condenser unit, or air filter. Your compressor may sustain serious damage from short cycles. In the worst situation, your air conditioner may be too strong for your house, and may not know when to switch on and off.
Diagnose: A complete system cleaning will solve the issue if the condenser unit or unclean air filter is the cause of the problem. To make sure you have the right size air conditioner for your living area, it’s recommended to have a professional evaluate your home’s cooling needs if those solutions don’t work.
Problem 3: Blowing Hot Air Instead of Cool Air
If you notice that your air conditioner is blowing warm air, consider turning the temperature down by at least five degrees to see if it fixes the problem by offering some cooling.
Diagnose: If not, the following could be possible causes of the issue:
- The condenser is unclean.
- The air filter’s accumulation of dirt.
- Insufficient amounts of refrigerant.
Get an expert to clean your evaporator. You must replace your AC’s air filters every few months, especially if you have pets or any member has allergies.
Problem 4: There is Liquid Leakage
Water and refrigerant leaks are the two possible sources of leaky fluids in air conditioners.
Diagnose: While condensation on the outside of the air conditioner is normal, vividly colored stains around the unit, condensation inside the air conditioner, or water seeping into your home are all signs of a more serious issue. A fine solution would be to call for a professional rather than trying to fix things yourself.
Problem 5: Issues with Drainage
Addressing the drainage issues with the AC unit is necessary to make sure it operates well. Moisture buildup within the system requires clearance through a drain pipe.
Diagnose: However, by obstructing the drainage tube, debris like dirt can readily impede this flow. This can lead to more damage to the AC’s parts.
To resolve this, turn off the AC and use the user manual to locate the drain pan. Then take out the pan to check for any debris. After thoroughly cleaning the entire area, install a new drain pan. Watch out for any pipe breaks as well. If found, use a vinegar and water solution to clean. Lastly, use a clean cloth to properly dry the pipe.
Problem 6: Problem with the Thermostat
Check your thermostat if your air conditioner operates erratically or turns off after a little while. Thermostat short cycling and/or continuous running are caused by an uneven or unclean thermostat, which negatively impacts energy efficiency.
Diagnose: First, make sure your thermostat light is on, which indicates that it has enough battery power to function as intended. Next, give it a thorough cleaning to remove any dirt or debris that can interfere with its capacity to indicate when the unit should switch on or off based on temperature. Get assistance from a local AC repair expert if these problems continue.
Problem 7: Malfunctioning of the Outdoor Unit
The ducts and vents in your home, among other system components, are typically the source of malfunctioning air conditioning units. But don’t forget to check your unit’s condenser, which is the external part.
Diagnose: Debris like dirt, weeds, and leaves, can collect over time on the condenser, which results in ineffective cooling and increased energy costs. To remove any dirt or debris, try using a hose to spray the unit. Additionally, make sure that any heavy objects are at least two feet away from the unit and trim any grass or weeds surrounding it.
Problem 8: Unpleasant Smell
Smelling something odd and thinking it might be coming from your air conditioning unit? Get to it right away before it gets worse. Luckily, a basic inspection can diagnose whether your cooling system needs an advanced repair or merely a thorough tune-up.
Diagnose: Constant microbial growth in your air conditioner can also be the reason for such unpleasant odors. Ultraviolet lights work wonders for microbial growth removal. Additionally, a nice cleaning can help remove stubborn odors gathered in the ducts.
Problem 9: Absence of Airflow
If you haven’t used your AC unit in a long time, you might feel that it takes some time to start cooling your space. Or you might notice that the vents are not blowing much air.
Diagnose: For such issues, it’s important to contact a reputable HVAC company as soon as you see any signs of inconsistent airflow so they can quickly diagnose and fix your air conditioner.
Problem 10: Unusual Sounds
Most air conditioners emit a weird, but minor, noise as they shut down. On the other hand, sudden, loud, or unexpected noises could be signs of severe issues with your cooling system.
Diagnose: Sounds like rumbling or buzzing might point to a loose component, but whistling or grinding noises could point toward a much more serious concern. This type of issue is unlikely to resolve itself. Therefore, a
Wrapping Up
Diagnosing AC issues can be complex, but understanding common problems and their remedies can help restore comfort efficiently. Whether it’s troubleshooting power issues, addressing inconsistent cooling, or tackling leaks and drainage problems, a systematic approach guided by these diagnostic steps can often pinpoint and resolve the underlying issues. However, for complex issues or when unsure, seeking help from experts like Smile HVAC is advisable to ensure the AC system’s proper functioning and longevity. By ensuring regular maintenance and timely inspections, we help reduce potential problems to your AC unit, keeping your home cool and comfortable throughout the seasons.
Swiftly book your air conditioner repair appointment in Toronto with our proficient team or you can also connect with us at 1-437-777-4555 for further information.
