Troubleshooting AC Problems: When to Call for Repairs
A failing air conditioner on a hot day is more than just an inconvenience—it can disrupt your comfort, increase energy bills, and even cause long-term damage to your HVAC system. While some AC issues can be resolved with simple troubleshooting, others require professional repairs to prevent worsening damage or complete system failure.
At Penning Plumbing, we know how frustrating AC problems can be. That’s why we’ve put together this troubleshooting guide to help you identify the issue, determine if a DIY fix is possible, and know when it’s time to call in the professionals.
Common AC Problems and How to Troubleshoot Them
Before calling for repairs, try these simple troubleshooting steps to see if you can resolve the issue on your own.
1. AC Won’t Turn On
If your air conditioner isn’t turning on at all, the problem may be electrical or thermostat-related.
Troubleshooting Steps:
- Check the Thermostat – Ensure the thermostat is set to “cool” mode and the temperature is lower than the current room temperature.
- Inspect the Circuit Breaker – If the breaker has tripped, reset it and see if the AC turns back on.
- Look for a Blown Fuse – A blown fuse in the disconnect box near the outdoor unit can prevent power from reaching the AC.
When to Call for Repairs: If your AC still doesn’t turn on after checking these factors, there may be a wiring issue, a faulty capacitor, or a malfunctioning control board—all of which require professional repair.
2. AC Is Running but Not Cooling
If your AC is blowing air, but it’s not cold, there may be an issue with the refrigerant, airflow, or compressor.
Troubleshooting Steps:
- Check the Air Filter – A clogged filter can restrict airflow and cause cooling issues. Replace or clean the filter if it’s dirty.
- Inspect the Outdoor Unit – Make sure the condenser coils aren’t covered in dirt or debris, which can prevent the system from cooling effectively.
- Look for Refrigerant Leaks – If you notice ice on the refrigerant lines or hissing noises, you may have a refrigerant leak.
If cleaning the filter and condenser doesn’t help or if you suspect a refrigerant leak, call an HVAC professional. Refrigerant leaks must be repaired before the system can be recharged, and handling refrigerant requires special certification.
3. Air Conditioner Turns On and Off Frequently (Short Cycling)
Short cycling—when the AC turns on and off repeatedly without completing a full cooling cycle—can strain the compressor and increase energy bills.
Troubleshooting Steps:
- Check the Air Filter – A dirty filter can cause overheating, leading the system to shut down prematurely.
- Inspect the Thermostat Placement – If the thermostat is near a heat source (like a window), it may be reading the temperature incorrectly and causing short cycling.
- Ensure Proper Refrigerant Levels – Low refrigerant can cause the system to overwork and shut off unexpectedly.
If short cycling continues, there could be an issue with the compressor, control board, or refrigerant levels. A technician can diagnose the root cause and prevent further system damage.
4. Weak Airflow from Vents
If your A/C is running but airflow feels weak, it may not be circulating properly.
Troubleshooting Steps:
- Check Vents and Registers – Ensure vents aren’t blocked by furniture, rugs, or dust buildup.
- Inspect the Air Filter – A dirty or clogged filter can reduce airflow significantly.
- Look for Ductwork Issues – Leaky or damaged ducts can prevent proper airflow from reaching your rooms.
If airflow problems persist, there may be a blower motor issue, duct leak, or frozen evaporator coil that requires professional attention.
5. Your Air Conditioning Unit Is Making Strange Noises
Unusual sounds coming from your AC unit often indicate mechanical problems that need immediate attention.
What Different Noises Mean:
- Banging or Clanking – Could signal a loose or broken part inside the compressor.
- Hissing or Bubbling – Often points to a refrigerant leak.
- Grinding or Screeching – May indicate a worn-out blower motor or belt.
If your AC is making any loud or unusual noises, shut it off immediately and call a professional before further damage occurs.
6. The AC Is Leaking Water Inside the House
A puddle of water near your indoor unit can be a sign of a drainage issue.
Troubleshooting Steps:
- Check the Condensate Drain Line – A clogged drain line can cause water to back up and leak indoors.
- Inspect the Evaporator Coil – If the coil is frozen, it may be causing excess condensation.
When to Call for Repairs: If draining the line doesn’t solve the issue, the problem could be with the drain pan, pump, or evaporator coil, requiring professional attention.
When to Call Penning Plumbing for AC Repairs
If your AC problem persists after troubleshooting, it’s time to call the experts at Penning Plumbing. You may need professional AC repair if:
- Your AC still won’t turn on after checking power sources.
- Your system runs but isn’t cooling properly.
- You notice refrigerant leaks or ice buildup on the coils.
- The unit is making loud or unusual noises.
- Your AC is short-cycling or struggling to maintain temperature.
Why Choose Penning Plumbing for AC Repair?
At Penning Plumbing, we provide fast, reliable AC repair services to keep your home comfortable. Our expert technicians can:
- Quickly diagnose and fix AC issues before they turn into bigger problems.
- Check refrigerant levels and repair leaks for optimal cooling.
- Inspect electrical components, blower motors, and compressors to ensure your system runs efficiently.
- Offer preventive maintenance tips to extend the life of your AC unit.
Don’t Sweat the Heat—Call Penning Plumbing Today!
If your air conditioner isn’t working properly, don’t wait for it to get worse. Our skilled technicians are ready to troubleshoot and repair any AC issue quickly and efficiently.
Call Penning Plumbing today at 616-538-0220 for expert AC repair, and stay cool all summer long!
