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Why is my air conditioner broken? 5 common reasons for AC failure

Condenser Unit

Why is my air conditioner broken? 5 common reasons for AC failure

Isn’t it ironic that otherwise reliable appliances and electronics only seem to malfunction when you need them most?

Actually, it’s not ironic at all, considering many people subject their appliances and electronics to rigorous use when they’re needed most. Cars are more likely to break down during highway driving at speeds above fifty miles per hour, computers become more susceptible to malware during frequent downloading and browsing, and your air conditioning is at a greater risk of failure during those hot summer months when you crank it up to eleven.

We can’t exactly provide any insight for why your car or computer isn’t working properly, but we can offer a few common explanations for air conditioning and HVAC failure (as well as our condolences for your car and computer).

1. Your thermostat isn’t working properly

If your air conditioner can’t detect the right temperature, it will most likely shut off prematurely — before reaching the desired comfort level. Installing a new thermostat can prevent your AC from cycling on and off.

2. Your circuit breaker or fuse is broken

If your air conditioner suddenly stops working, you should probably check your circuit breaker before impulsively replacing it with an expensive new unit. Many people don’t realize, however, that it’s usually necessary to give your AC system 15 minutes to cool down after resetting your power.

If your cooling unit doesn’t work after resetting the power and waiting 15 minutes, you may have triggered a limit switch, in which case, you should call a technician. Like Fred’s Heating and Air, for example.

3. Your evaporator coil is frozen

Built up dust and dirt in your ductwork and in your air filter can lead to airflow backup in your cooling unit, resulting in a frozen evaporator coil. Ice and frost around your evaporator coil is what causes your air conditioning unit to drip water onto your floor. Just make sure to keep your ducts clean and your air filter fresh. Also, you can inspect the inside of your cooling unit for frost or ice.

4. Your AC has damaged components

We realize this is a pretty vague tip, but your air conditioner could be damaged in one of many places. It could be the compressor, the electrical connections, or simply damaged fan blades.

5. You’re low on refrigerant

Refrigerant is basically the “conditioner” part of your air conditioner. It cools the air inside your AC unit. If your AC is low on refrigerant, you probably have a leak somewhere in your system. If this is the case, call Fred’s Heating and Air for immediate repairs.

For expert 24/7 heating and air conditioning repair, call Fred’s Heating and Air in the Omaha area at 402-779-7065, or contact us online.