5 Common Air Conditioner Issues and How to Fix Them

Even if you live in one of the warmer states like Florida, as much as 50% of your energy bills every month stem from heating and cooling your home.

That’s why it’s so important to make sure your air conditioner’s working at it’s best every minute of the day. 

These are the most common air conditioner issues that could cause your energy bills to skyrocket. 

1. Loud Noises Coming From Your AC Unit

Air conditioners should make your home a pleasanter place, not introduce load unwanted noises into your life. That’s why they’re designed to operate as silently as possible.

Whether you have to shout over the noise of your AC, or it’s simply making unusual sounds, something’s wrong.

These types of AC issues usually result from worn components or an electrical fault.

Banging, rattling, or thumping sounds often indicate a loose blade or debris that’s made it’s way inside your unit. Clear any debris you can see on the exterior part of your AC.

Buzzing, clicking, or hissing sounds mean there’s something seriously wrong with your air conditioner. Call for professional help immediately.  

2. A Foul Smell Coming from Your Air Conditioner

Bad smells usually result from mold growing inside your air conditioning unit. Mold can grow on the condenser coil or air ducts inside your air conditioner due to leaks. This poses a serious health risk to your family. 

If you notice a faint smell of burning around your unit, get help urgently, there could be a problem with your air conditioner’s wiring.  

3. Air Conditioner Issues Related to Cooling

An air conditioner that blows hot air isn’t fulfilling its purpose in life. This issue’s usually caused by dirty filters or a leaky or clogged duct. 

You should change your air filters once every three months as part of your air conditioner maintenance schedule. You’ll need to call for professional help in the event you have a duct problem.  

Learn more here about how to maintain your air conditioner and reduce air conditioner repairs. 

4. Leaking Refrigerant

A refrigerant leak’s one of the most difficult issues to detect with an air conditioner. If your aircon’s misbehaving, and you’ve tried everything you can to get it going again, a thorough inspection may reveal signs of leaking.  

Like most major issues, you’ll need a licensed technician to help you with this one.

5.  Ice on the Outside Unit

Ice is one of the most common problems with exterior AC units. Usually, this problem results from one of the following:

  • A clog in the system
  • Insufficient coolant
  • Malfunctioning blower motor
  • Extreme cold
  • A stuck contractor
  • A dirty filter

If changing your filter doesn’t help, call in a technician to address the problem. 

Maintaining a Cool Home

Air conditioner issues can cause major upheavals with your family’s health and comfort as well as your finances.

When in doubt, get professional assistance right away. You’ll save money on unnecessary repairs and keep your family safe, healthy, and happy. and keep your family safe, healthy, and happy.

For more ideas on the coolest home improvement and maintenance topics, keep reading our blog.