The condenser is the outdoor part of an air conditioning system, and if it doesn’t turn on, the air conditioner will not work. Common air conditioner problems can occur for various reasons, such as a clogged air filter, debris in the exterior air box, or improper temperature settings. To fix a home AC problem, follow these steps:
- Check the breaker or fuse panel.
- Change the filter.
- Test the thermostat.
- Check the outside unit for blocked airflow.
- Check the thermostat.
- Check the filter.
- Reset the thermostat.
- Check the system’s coolant lines.
- Adjust the thermostat settings.
- Unclog your A/C unit.
In summary, troubleshooting and fixing common air conditioner problems at home can be done with the help of experienced technicians. By following these steps, you can keep your AC running smoothly and ensure your air conditioner works properly. If the problems persist, it may be time to consider replacing your air conditioner. Additionally, it’s important to have your model number ready to find solutions.
If you’re still having issues, it’s essential to turn off power to the condenser unit at the circuit breaker to prevent electrical shock. Clean the system’s coolant lines and adjust the thermostat settings if necessary.
📹 Top 5 AC Problems and How to Fix Them
Top 5 AC problems and how to fix them. I go over five of the most common air conditioner problems and explain what needs to be …
Should I turn my AC off if it’s not cooling?
In HVAC troubleshooting, it’s crucial to prevent the escalation of problems. If your AC unit isn’t cooling, it may indicate a system malfunction that could worsen if it continues to run. Shutting off the AC allows the system to rest and prevent further damage until an HVAC professional inspects it. Running an AC unit without cooling can lead to excessive energy usage and higher utility bills. To prevent wasting energy and money, it’s advisable to turn off the AC and contact a professional like SS and B Heating and Cooling in Springfield, MO. A malfunctioning AC can cause overheating, which could cause serious damage or even a fire hazard.
Why is my air conditioner running but not cooling my house?
Dirty filters can cause air conditioning units to not cool effectively due to the accumulation of pollen, dust, and pet dander on them. Regular cleaning can resolve this issue, but if the unit still doesn’t cool after cleaning, it may be due to other issues. Chronic neglect of filter changes can lead to more serious issues. Low refrigerant levels can also cause the AC to not cool effectively, often due to leaks in the refrigerant lines. Regular maintenance and cleaning can help ensure the AC’s cooling capabilities.
Why is my AC giving cool air but not cooling?
An AC unit that is not cooling can be due to a deficiency in refrigerant or Freon. When refrigerant circulates with the air, it creates cool air. If your unit becomes low on Freon, the air in your room will not be as cooling as before. If this happens, you can contact a technician to refill your refrigerant. If the outdoor thermistor on your AC unit is broken, it will not send a signal and the room temperature will not change. If this happens, contact an AC technician to fix the thermistor. For more maintenance advice, visit your nearest branch and let our friendly staff assist you.
How to fix air flow problem in house?
To increase airflow in your air conditioning vents, clean the outdoor condenser unit, vacuum indoor vents, increase the thermostat temperature, keep blinds and curtains closed, clear your drain line, and Insulate any exposed ductwork. If you’re experiencing no air blowing from your air conditioning vents, it may be due to clogged filters with dirt, hair, dust, or other debris. To avoid this, change or clean your filters at least once a month and keep the space around your AC free of obstacles. Additionally, keep blinds and curtains closed, clear your drain line, and insulate any exposed ductwork.
How can I make my home AC cold again?
To ensure your air conditioner (AC) is blowing cold air again, follow these steps:
- Check the thermostat for any issues.
- Replace the filters and replace them.
- Check the condenser for debris.
- Check the air compressor for dirt.
- Check the indoor fan.
The global air conditioner market is expected to generate $67. 32 billion by 2024. However, if your AC unit becomes lukewarm, it can cause frustration and discomfort during the hottest months.
It’s crucial to identify and fix issues quickly to avoid discomfort and sticky feelings during the hottest months. By following these steps, you can ensure your AC remains cool and comfortable during the summer.
What is the first thing to check when the AC stops working?
To fix a central air conditioner not working, follow these steps:
- Check the thermostat settings and adjust them if necessary.
- Reset the house circuit breakers for the AC unit if tripped.
- Replace the dirty air filter if necessary.
- Check for dirt clogging the condenser fins on the outside unit and clean them if necessary.
- Clear the clogged condensate drain line if condensate water isn’t draining from the unit.
If these steps don’t work, contact a technician for HVAC system repair or replacement.
For AC window units, check the temperature setting and ensure electrical current is flowing into the system. If these steps don’t solve the issue, seek professional help for AC window unit repair.
Why is my AC not blowing air in the house?
If your air handler is running but not blowing air, it’s likely due to a broken AC blower belt or an issue with the motor itself. If the air handler is humming or buzzing but not making mechanical sounds, it’s likely a motor issue. If the motor is running but not moving air, it’s possible to check if the blower belt is broken. DIY savvy homeowners can tackle this, but it requires opening the air handler and replacing parts.
To check the exterior compressor, inspect the refrigerant coils around the condensing unit for dust, dirt, or ice buildup. If so, defrost or thoroughly clean them to remove the buildup. While many homeowners prefer a professional to handle this, DIY-inclined individuals can handle this with some research.
How can I fix my air conditioner myself?
Home air conditioning systems are crucial for keeping the home cool during the warmer months. If the air conditioner doesn’t turn on, it could be due to various issues, such as a faulty compressor, motor, or damaged wiring. To repair a home air conditioner, check the breaker or fuse panel, change the filter, test the thermostat, remove ice build-up, clean the vents, clear space around the compressor, inspect the air ducts, and clean the evaporator coils.
Repairing a home air conditioner can be costly, so it’s recommended to take a couple of hours to troubleshoot the issue before calling in a professional. In many cases, the problem can be resolved without hiring a professional, saving you money.
One common issue is the condenser, which is the outdoor part of an air conditioning system. If the thermostat is set too high, the condenser may not turn on. If the issue is due to a faulty compressor, motor, or damaged wiring, it’s recommended to contact an air conditioner repair professional.
Should I turn off AC if it’s not cooling?
Turning off your air conditioner is the first step to ensure it is cooling effectively. This prevents further damage to the compressor and other critical components, potentially saving them from costly repairs. After turning off the AC, troubleshoot common issues by checking the air filter, which can be replaced or cleaned by yourself. A dirty or clogged filter restricts airflow, reducing the system’s efficiency. Additionally, check the air return grilles and vents around your home to ensure they are not blocked by furniture or curtains.
Blocked vents can prevent proper air circulation, impacting the cooling efficiency of the system. Clear pathways can help your air conditioner perform optimally. Replacing or cleaning the air filter is a simple maintenance task that can restore the unit to good working order.
How do I fix my AC that isn’t cold?
When your air conditioner is not cooling your space, check and reset the thermostat, replace the dirty filter, clear the clogged condensation drain, diagnose duct malfunctions, clear the area around the compressor, and consider buying a more powerful air conditioner. If the central air conditioner won’t blow cold air, troubleshoot and fix the most likely problems. While it’s essential to contact an HVAC professional if the problem persists, with some DIY troubleshooting, you may be able to remedy the issue and save on a costly house call. By following these steps, you can ensure your air conditioner is functioning properly and providing a refreshing cooling experience during the sweltering summer days.
Why is my AC not blowing cold air?
To ensure proper airflow in your air conditioner, check for dirt and debris in filters and coils. Run the air conditioner with the fan to melt ice accumulation. If the AC doesn’t blow cold air, it might be due to low refrigerant levels. As a COVID-19-aware company, we sanitize all materials and tools, and mandate masks for our technicians. We prioritize client comfort during this uncertain time and don’t “slap or swap in” HVAC systems. Our professional HVAC contractor team follows local and state codes, ensuring you get more than you pay for. We are licensed, bonded, and insured to ensure your home’s safety.
📹 AC Unit Not Cooling House – 20 Reasons Why
Here are 20 reasons why your home air conditioner may not be blowing as much cold air as it should be. Many of these cooling …
❄ Other articles For Reference: Top 5 A/C Problems: youtu.be/GOXgdnRB840 Complete A/C Troubleshooting Guide: youtu.be/wzAA4dlp_70 How to Clean Condenser Coil: youtu.be/pzwOvgjwm_Q How to Replace a Capacitor: youtu.be/9ZGfvC-PMWU How to Replace a Contactor: youtu.be/qHZc9wWAF4c How to Replace Condenser Fan Motor: youtu.be/gGFTd2dmgxg How to Replace A/C Control Board: youtu.be/hijUExXrcm8 How to Replace a Thermostat: youtu.be/1mJkjrwxdP4 How to Check Freon Level: youtu.be/dExFtP-nXTw How to Wire A/C Condenser Unit: youtu.be/KCanZEsLVEI How to Read A/C Wiring Diagram: youtu.be/I-sB4GIlbl4 When Should You Replace A/C: youtu.be/Z7vUOySOWbM 15 Air Conditioner Maintenance Tips: youtu.be/pBBnXHse-T0 Should You Get an A/C Inspection: youtu.be/JqNsEzb__qs
For future reference in case anyone else needs it. 1. 1:12 Condenser unit not working at all 2. 1:52 Bad capacitor 3. 2:50 Locked up compressor 4. 3:37 Bad condenser fan motor 5. 4:52 Dirty furnace filter 6. 6:08 Plugged/dirty evaporator coil 7. 7:11 Plugged/dirty condenser coil 8. 8:21 Dirty return grill 9. 9:04 Bad thermostat 10. 9:45 Thermostat programming 11. 10:27 Turning AC on late 12. 11:15 Low on refrigerant 13. 13:09 Leak in ducts 14. 13:49 Undersized unit 15. 15:33 HRV is running 16. 16:15 Open windows 17. 16:55 Bad install 18. 17:41 Damper closed 19. 18:37 Poorly ventilated attic 20. 19:25 Poorly insulated house
I kid you not, I was having problems in the middle of the heat this month with my AC. Just bought a house and i was confused why i put on the Cold in the thermostat but no COOLING and the AC didnt function… Called an AC guy and he charged 100$ just to come and he was backed up for a week atleast. Didnt even call me back. Saw your article…and all i had to do was switch the breaker!! OMG!!! I am living in a igloo now! Thanks man!!!
Wow, this was very informative and to the point. When I saw it was over 20 mins, I was not eager to watch, but those minutes went by fast because you clearly explained and kept it simple. My husband usually takes care of this kind of stuff, but he is working and will have to wait to watch YouTube when he gets home. In the meantime, I’m pre-screening for him. I know nothing about technical stuff like this, but even I feel very informed after perusal you. Thanks a million!
You should become HVAC instructor. You made your explanations easy to understand for everyone without HVAC knowledge. I’ve been trying to learn HVAC myself but most articles out there talk too much but barely going to the point, find out issue and solutions. You have experiences inside and out, you can talk all day without the scripts. Most issues usually happened out there with relay, capacitor, cleaning the coil, replace thermostat battery. You have instructed how to replace these and save homeowners’ a lot of money. Very well done and thank for the articles. One issue I found myself before that when weather transition from the Fall to Summer, the outdoor AC unit didn’t run when it first start, I just shut down the A/C breaker and turn back on, somehow the power kicked in the unit and the unit start to run and everything are fine. Sometimes the tech got lucky but it took care the issue and save the money.
I love you, regular homeowner here. You helped me troubleshoot and fix my AC for less thank 50 bucks, vs doing an quote emergency service call since its the weekend. my capacitor was bad. i have zero hvac experience but im mechanically inclined. Just tested it and picked a new one up at a local part shop for 28 bucks you saved me at a minimum 500 bucks possible more with labor. <3 subscribed
Just closed on our house a week ago and the AC went out last night in the middle of a heat wave! Was able to diagnose, source an equivalent part and fix the problem by 11am today! ( I got lucky, it was a bad capacitor). You have saved me over $500 and can now maintain and understand my system. Subscriber well earned. Thank you!
number 5 -check filter-was the winner for me. Reminded me that I have a air exchange vent under my bed (in my seasonal park model trailer). lo and behold I hadn’t removed the foil and trivia per suit box that I covered it with to protect the place from mice over the winter. Everything is a working great now! Such a great article. So informative and well presented. Thank you!!!
I had a plumbing heating and air company come out to look at my water heater that needed replacing and they looked at my HVAC unit and said I should replace it because it’s original to the 2001 home. At the time it was working fine but since they were here it will run but doesn’t cool. They came back and said it has a short, which can happen at any time, and they’d charge $700 to find/repair….I’m hoping your article might help me get it back to working how it was before this company had their hands on it!🙏🏼
First of all, thank you for sharing the article. It followed your process and it helped me understand my unit much more than what I did before (which is practically next to nothing). I have two AC units (one for down stairs and upstairs). Downstairs was working fine but for some reason, upstairs was not working. So I called the technician. It turns out that the AC power switch for upstairs was turned off. He turned it on and viola! it started working (shows how little that i knew about my units.. .and I had to pay for it too). While he was there, he checked the freon on both units and tells me that he needed to fill them as well since they are running low (both are around 20 years old) and told me that I should consider replacing them. Fine. I called around to get an estimate. A week after the freon was filled, I noticed that the downstairs AC is no longer blowing the cold air. I called the technician back to check and he says that it was filled with freon and he needed to go up the attic to check the capacitor. It was an odd hour and I was out of the house then so he said he’ll be back the next day the check. He didn’t show up. Just to do my due diligence before I pay him more, I checked everything following your direction… and this is what I found. All the units were working fine… outside AC, upstairs Attic, and it feels that the air was circulating properly. What I noticed, however, is that the upstairs AC unit on the outside, which is now working) is blowing up hot air through the fan.
Hey Jay. Thank you for your very informative articles. Good job! I have an AC problem I just can’t resolve, so far. Two days ago my AC started blowing warm air. Since then, I’ve done the following: 1) replaced filter below blower, 2) replaced dual cap – slightly rounded out both ends, 3) installed hard start, 4) replaced condenser fan, 5) checked low side pressure – 75 psig, 6) ohmed out compressor from contactor T1, T2, Cap Herm (2.0+0.8=2.8) – I did not ohm to ground, & 7) replaced thermostat batteries & checked wire contacts at thermostat. My symptoms: after a short delay from thermostat Set point, compressor kicks on, condensor fan kicks on, semi cold air comes out registers. After a few minutes, warmer air starts blowing out. I go outside and compressor still running, but fan kicked off. Almost like short cycle syndrome. Air gradually gets warmer. Low side feels cold’ish to touch. Then I turn thermostat off so compressor doesn’t get too hot. Condensor fan seems to cycle on/off. Maybe bypass thermostat by jumping R & Y to eliminate thermostat? Check 24 V at contactor & check plunger action (2 arms). Suggestions?
My neighbor just had their 42 year-old AC replaced at a cost of $12,000 and mine is the same age (moved in in Dec 78 -new house). I could tell that my AC had been getting a little less efficient over the past couple of years and I was thinking of replacing it too. I watched your article and checked one thing that I had not checked before. When I checked the coils at the top of my air-handler, they were dirty. I almost looks like they had installed a very thin charcoal filter on the inside. Once I cleaned it, the air volume coming from the vents was much greater. It is supposed to get to 104 today and tomorrow so I hope this change will keep my house at 76 instead of 81/82. Thank you for the great article and for saving me from having to replace my AC in the summertime.
I find your articles very informative. I’ve got an issue that may stump you though. Just had a new condenser installed yesterday on the house I rent. Tech can’t get the split in temps between intake and vents above 13 degrees, says it should be 22 degrees. We’re experiencing an excessive heat warning at this time with daytime highs over 110 degrees. In the past, with old condenser, and r-22, the temp of air coming from vents was in the mid to upper 40s. I’ve not seen the temp from vents go below 53 degrees yet with new condenser and new refrigerant type. This system does have a refrigerant leak and the source was not found prior to the new install. It’s possible the leak may be fixed with the condenser replacement, but so far, we don’t know. The tech adjusted something today that did reduce the humidity felt in the house (felt like a swamp cooler), and seemed to increase airflow, but air doesn’t feel colder. Is this just how the new refrigerant works? Seems less efficient. I would appreciate any input. Thank you for your time. Barbara
Thanks for this great article! I think I have problem #3. The AC periodically stops cooling while the system is running. It’s 17 years old and we had a hard start kit installed close to 10 years ago. Can the hard start kit fail with age too? All I do to get it cooling again is turn the system to off for 2 seconds, then back on.
I really appreciate your time you take yo go through that list and give a brief description of each of these common issues. You did a perfect job thank for it. Although i do not know yet what cause my A/C is not cooling enough, but you give me enough ideas what to troubleshoot myself. And i look forward to do an inspection soon on my A/C unit. Thank you once again brother for the great job.
I watched a very detailed article last year of a guy taking apart a 2004 f-150 cold air intake manifold. His article was the closest to my vehicle. Despite 30 degree weather, tight spaces, constantly dropping things bc i could not feel my fingers i went from a guy with an elaborate first purchase tool set to finally admitting defeat and having AAA tow it to my normal mechanic who encouraged me to try. I think it had between 8-12 bolts total holding it in on both sides . It was heartbreaking, but my mechanic said, “Good job.” His assistants took 3 days, putting it back together as i took cell phone pics and labeled some items with tape and a marker. My point is excellent article, i actually have 3 pages of notes and references i paused,wrote down, and even screenshot. We have a professional coming hopefully this week, but i can tell him the easy things i tried to help him rule things out. I also contacted a number about the solar screens to see if it is legit or not, I will be calling to see if i qualify for a home energy audit, and in total i have 3-4 pages of detailed notes from your article and still have to follow up on a couple you used in making this one. I normally never write comments, hence why this one is all over the place. But this one made me want to learn more and more. I subscribed to your website and finally just wanted to say thank you for presenting the material in a way i wanted to learn more and more. I look forward to looking back at your other articles and new ones to come.
thanks for this nice updated tutorial, i think there is a very common but i am not sure if it is critical to not cool down the house, which is the return air vent not big enough, i got an 4 ton ac machine, the return air vent only 12×30 = 360 squre inch, i believe it need to be at least 580 (144 x 4 tons) squre inch. i think this installation mistake causes the sucking/vapor line no water come out, and it keeps running on hot days and it takes5-6 hours to cool the house until the outdoor tem drops. is my assumption correct ? thanks
Thanks for your experience and time to teach us this information. You obviously know your stuff and try to make it clear to understand. Thanks for your informing your viewers about turning down the T-stat trying to make it colder faster. I’ve found on many occasions the unit iced up due to the system trying to overcome the heat load, never shutting off.
I installed a replacement coil on my unit by myself. After being quoted $50 for 1 pound of coolant. Then the A/C man wanted to replace my entire air handler for $4200 because to coil was leaking. I saved myself about $4700 doing the job myself. The system works great now. I appreciate your articles. I have learned a lot from them.
I bought a 2 bedroom condo 1 month ago. The HVAC system is 1 year old Goodman R-410A 2-Ton system. During the home inspection I complained that the system was not producing cold enough air. It was 68-70 degrees on the day of the inspection. After closing 1 month ago, today we had a 97 degree day. The HVAC system struggles to bring the temperature down past 85 degrees. In fact it could not bring it down past 85 degrees for over 2 hours! It does not have enough returns because it is a condo on the 2nd floor. There is only 1 return in the hallway which is tiny. If I pay a HVAC contractor to install 3 returns in the attic, will that help the HVAC system cool better? Should I also get the system checked (superheat & subcooling) by a professional? I noticed the condenser fan motor does come on, and also the system does come on, but it doesn’t cool well enough… Edit: I went further and checked the outside condenser and the fan is spinning good. However the heat it’s blowing doesn’t feel any hotter than the ambient outdoor temperature. Also, the suction line does not have any condensation on it. Both lines feel lukewarm at best. I believe it’s low on R-410A. Thursday I am now paying someone to check the charge and install 3 returns. I also enlarged the hallway return by 6″x5″ additional. I’m hoping to fix this once and for all. Sometimes you have to trust your gut with these things. I am just a homeowner but this whole thing looked bad.
So, I am trying to figure out how to accomplish my vision. I am buying a new build. A friend of ours has a 1740 SF home, and I am getting a 1630 SF home. They are complaining about it not cooling to a good level, and they have only been in their home for 3 months. (New build as well.) 1. What reusable filter is good for me to use? 2. My parents have an AC unit that runs 24/7, but the condencer turns on and off while the fan still stays on. Could you tell me the benefits of that? 3 I want to route some ducting from my ac to the garage or another efficient way. What would you recommend?
Had a partially plugged up condensate drain that caused intermittent hvac operation. Water would build up until it lifted the float of the Safe t switch, shutting the unit down for five minutes until the tstat built in delay would allow it to restart, at which time the build up of water under the safe t switch would have drained out .but temp on tstat was higher than set point. I caught it when I looked at the tstat when the safe t switch had triggered and it was blank from loss of power. Cleared the drain line and all was good.
If the turning down the thermostat doesn’t make the air colder, how cold can you make your house? Obviously on a 100° day, you will never get your house to be 50°. What is the difference between the temperature outside and how cold the meter can depressurize the refrigerant? I’m sure it depends on the meter, but on average would you say that the meter can bring it down 25°? So if it is 100° the refrigerant when it leaves the condenser unit is 100° and the meter brings it down 25° to 75° therefore you can only get your house to get as cool as low as 75°?
You mentioned air ducks that have cracks or breaks or some type of separation. Can that cause the A shape radiator to freeze up. I’ve had 3 company’s look at my Coleman unite for not cooling they all say that I have a leak but they can’t find it. So when the the pros cant find the problem who ya gonna call????
Jay, you are my hero and I need to give you my money for helping me!!! Our AC went out during a heat wave and because I was fortunate enough to come across your article I was able to figure out the issue and fix it myself. Saved me tons of $$$ and days being cooked to death waiting for a technician to come. The hardest part was trying to find the part I needed, which was impossible to find locally, so we had to wait in literal hell roasting in a house of nearly 90 degrees for a couple of days for Amazon shipping, but it came, I replaced the part and saved our lives. I cannot express appropriately my gratitude for you and your articles, and how talented you are at delivering information so that dumb dumbs like me can accomplish the impossible. THANK YOU!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! (Seriously, how do I send you some compensation?!)
One thing I might add is to make sure the blower motor is spinning in the correct direction. A recent airflow issue I was having was caused by the blower motor turning in the opposite direction after replacing the blower module. I was able to reverse the polarity (swapped the positive and negative wires at the motor connection to the module) and got it to spin in the correct direction. Airflow was restored and AC was getting to temp again.
Would you recommend if able to afford to replace a 15 yr old unit (that’s 10seer ) for a new 16 seer more efficient unit..my current unit has some rust on the evaporator coil and haven’t had it serviced at all (my mistake). The outside is 3.5 ton while the inside is a 4 ton. My reasoning is I do want a unit that cools way better and hopefully easier on electric bill.
Video is completely overwhelming for me who don’t know anything about HVAC systems and feel the installer is giving me the run around. Still, now I know there could be so many other things wrong so I know some things to ask if he checked and if they are properly working. 😂 will be trying the tap, dog bone, and spit…lol
My AC for three levels new townhome in Utah county have difficulty to bring temperature down to the bedrooms at the third floor (thermostat on the second floor). AC tends to over work and could cause ice buildup. When there is some ice in the system, the unit will not work properly. The condenser fan motor even does spin at full speed and makes some clicking sound. After turn off the unit and ice melt, the unit works again including the condeni fan motor also working at full speed without clinking sound. It seems that the weird fan motor clinking sound when struggling at lower speed is unrelated to the ice buildup. How to fix the problem? A service technician did not find any problem with the unit Freon pressure when the unit was running properly. Thanks so much!
2 part question i could really use your help with,I have a nordyne packaged heat pump single phase unit for mobile home. Im trying to figure out how to wire a 5wire thermostat wire to the defrost control board and then to thermostat. Also when I force the contactor on the compressor and fan motor kick on but no blower motor. Is that because thermostat and dft board are hooked up incorrectly or do i have another issue. I got the unit all wired incorrectly and have gotten this far perusal your articles hoping you can take me rest of the way. Havent seen any vids with packaged heatpump units . Appreciate all your help.
Is it common for an AC unit to have a dual capacitor and a single capacitor? On the dual capacitor only 2 posts are taken. The common and the herm. The fan post rated within working range but it wasnt being taken up. There was a single capacitor that rated 5uf but was out of spec already. So I’m wondering if its possible to just connect one of the cables to the fan, in place of the single capacitor. Or if it does need a separate capacitor.