Georgia summers are no joke: high heat and thick humidity put your air conditioner through a serious workout. When your AC is running nonstop just to keep your home bearable, it’s not uncommon for issues to pop up.
Understanding the most common AC problems and knowing a few basic troubleshooting steps can help you stay cool and prevent small hiccups from becoming major headaches. And if you do need to call for AC repair in Loganville, GA, after doing these checks, you’ll know it’s really necessary.
Typical AC Issues During Georgia Summers
Your air conditioner works hardest when you need it the most, and that’s exactly when common problems tend to show up. Some typical issues Georgia homeowners face include:
- Dirty or Clogged Air Filters: A filter that’s full of dust and debris blocks airflow, forcing your AC to work harder and cool less effectively.
- Low Refrigerant: If your system has a leak, the refrigerant level drops, and your AC can’t cool your home properly.
- Frozen Evaporator Coils: Poor airflow or low refrigerant can cause coils to freeze up, stopping your AC from doing its job.
- Blocked or Dirty Outdoor Unit: Grass clippings, leaves, and pollen can clog the condenser coil, making it harder for the system to release heat.
- Electrical Issues: The extra load during peak heat can trip breakers or blow fuses.
Simple DIY Checks Before Calling for Service
While some AC problems need professional repairs, there are a few quick things you can check yourself before picking up the phone:
- Check for a Tripped Breaker: If your AC won’t turn on, take a look at your electrical panel. A tripped circuit breaker is a common culprit, especially during heavy use. If you find one, reset it. If it trips again right away, call a pro.
- Change the Thermostat Battery: If your thermostat goes blank or doesn’t seem to respond, the battery may be dead. Swap it out with fresh batteries and see if your system kicks back on.
- Replace the Air Filter: If you haven’t changed your air filter recently, do it now! A clean filter keeps airflow strong and your system efficient.
- Clean the Outdoor Unit: Make sure your condenser unit outside is free of leaves, grass, and other debris. Gently hose off the fins and clear any vegetation around it so air can flow freely.
When It’s Time to Call a Professional
DIY checks can help you solve minor issues, but there are times when you absolutely need an expert’s help. Call a licensed HVAC technician if you notice any of these signs:
- Warm Air Blowing: If your AC is running but the air isn’t cold, it could be low refrigerant or a compressor problem. Both require professional service.
- Frequent Cycling: If your system constantly turns on and off, there may be an electrical or thermostat issue.
- Strange Noises: Banging, squealing, or grinding noises are never normal. They can indicate loose parts, motor trouble, or worse.
- Ice Buildup: If you spot ice on the refrigerant lines or outdoor unit, don’t ignore it—frozen coils usually mean a bigger problem.
- Water Leaks: Puddles or excess moisture around your indoor unit could point to a clogged drain line or refrigerant issue.
When in doubt, don’t risk your comfort … or your AC system. If you run through the basic checks and your air conditioner still struggles, give our team a call. We’ll get your system back up and running so you can stay cool and comfortable all summer long.
Reach out to Wall Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc. with any inquiries or to make an appointment.