Home AC compressor noises are concerning to any Grand Rapids, MI, area homeowners who experience this sudden and unexpected disturbance. A little noise from your outdoor air conditioning unit is normal as it runs, but beyond this steady, typical operating noise, certain sounds are indicators of problems within your cooling system.

A-1 Mechanical’s cooling professionals explain the different types of air conditioner compressor noises that point to malfunction. If you notice any of the sounds below from your cooling system this summer, please contact us right away to schedule an air conditioner repair visit.

What Air Conditioner Noises Mean Potential Trouble?

Most homeowners are familiar with the hum of their air conditioner’s cycling. Any sounds that are new and interrupt that usual drone are signs of potential system trouble, and the type of sound is a clue as to what could be malfunctioning within the cooling system.

Here are the different types of noises that you may hear and what they mean:

1. Banging, Rattling or Clunking

Banging, rattling or clunking noises that occur when the cooling system runs often indicate loose parts. If a bolt comes loose, the compressor isn’t held firmly into place and produces such sounds due to movement. Tightening the connection is the first step in eliminating the noise, if applicable.

Loose connecting rods, pistons or other components move around during operation and produce the air conditioner compressor noise you hear during a cooling cycle. Compressor replacement is often recommended to correct this issue. Due to the assembly of this vital component, it’s usually easier to replace the compressor than attempt to repair the loose internal component.

2. Clicking

A clicking noise is usually caused by some sort of obstruction. Branches and other outdoor debris that fall into the unit cause such a sound as they prevent internal components from functioning properly. These items can damage internal components, causing them to produce an unusual noise while the system runs, such as the compressor fan blades striking against a bent fan screen as they rotate.

Debris must be removed, and any damaged components inside the condenser unit repaired. Exterior components of the unit may have sustained damage due to falling debris, which also require repair. Component replacement may be necessary if a part is damaged beyond repair.

Another issue that causes a clicking noise is a malfunctioning relay or control within the exterior unit. Controls and relays are tested to determine performance problems and then repaired or replaced to restore function and eliminate the clicking noise you hear from your outdoor air conditioning unit.

3. Hissing

Is your air conditioner making high pitched hissing noises? It could be an indication of two different yet serious issues. Other AC noises that often occur along with hissing provide a clue as to the source of the problem.

• Hissing and bubbling are indicative of a refrigerant leak within the outdoor unit. Technicians inspect the system to locate the leak and perform repairs to seal the line, which eliminates the hissing and bubbling caused by escaping refrigerant and pressure.
• Hissing, along with a screaming noise from the outdoor unit, point to a dangerous buildup of pressure. Turn your air conditioner off right away if you hear these sounds and do not use the system again until repairs are completed. High-pressure buildup within an AC compressor is often caused by a leaking or damaged thermostatic expansion valve or other valve in the compressor’s fan motor. The compressor’s high-pressure sensor may also be broken if it fails to shut down the system when high pressure is present.

A-1 Mechanical Ends Home Air Conditioning Compressor Noises Fast

If you notice that your air conditioner is making a noise that isn’t typical this summer season, make sure to call A-1 Mechanical to schedule an air conditioning repair appointment right away. Our technicians are available around the clock to quickly perform repairs to malfunctioning components, eliminating the disturbance and restoring the proper function of your cooling system’s vital parts.

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Have you noticed a funky odor in your Lansing or Grand Rapids area home lately? If the unwelcome aroma persists despite your best efforts to banish it through extra cleaning and other measures, the source could be something you never thought to consider – your air conditioner.

When an air conditioner smells bad, it leads to a lingering odor and an issue many in the HVAC business refer to as dirty sock syndrome – named after the distinctive smell it produces within the home. A-1 Mechanical explains the source of this unpleasant problem and what to do to rid your home of the stench.

The Reason Your Air Conditioner Smells Bad

A smelly air conditioner and the resulting dirty sock syndrome often stems from mold and mildew within the cooling unit. Your evaporator coil can easily become a prime location for this unwanted growth and collection. Moisture produced through cooling air – combined with poor air filtration and collecting debris deposited by cycling air – deliver prime conditions for mold and mildew to develop and linger.

Issues That Cause Air Conditioner Odors

As explained, the development of mold and mildew produce the foul odor experienced all the way inside the home. Mold isn’t supposed to grow and thrive in a home’s air conditioner. If your AC smells bad, you need to pay close attention to the areas below. Take action to prevent these problems in your Grand Rapids or Lansing area home, and stop cooling system odors from seeping into your living areas.

Inadequate Filtration

Your air conditioning system removes airborne contaminants from incoming air in order to protect sensitive equipment from damage that results when dust, dirt and other foreign matter builds up within. A secondary benefit of this system protection is cleaner air for your living areas. When contaminants are properly filtered out of the home’s air supply, living areas remain smelling fresh.

The first step in fighting dirty sock syndrome is regular air filter replacement. When homeowners neglect this important task, contaminants build up within the air conditioner, contributing to mold and mildew growth.

Today’s homeowners are increasingly concerned with their indoor air quality and the effects it has on a household’s health and comfort. For this reason, many in the Greater Lansing and Grand Rapids areas choose to utilize advanced air filtration methods such as whole-home media air cleaners and ultraviolet air purifiers to increase their control over indoor airborne contaminants. In the fight against dirty sock syndrome, UV air purifiers are especially helpful. Installed within cooling system ducts, this technology neutralizes mold spores, killing them and preventing regeneration.

Whether you rely on just a furnace filter or use advanced air filtration methods to keep your air conditioning system and your indoor air supply clean, these components are only helpful when they operate correctly. Dirty air filters and improperly installed air filtration devices are unable to do their job, which means mold and mildew continue to thrive unchecked.

Dirty Evaporator Coils

When warm air enters the cooling system from the home, it flows over the air conditioner’s evaporator coils where heat is extracted to lower air temperature. Without effective filtration methods in place, contaminants remain in the air supply and have the opportunity to settle on the evaporator coils during the cooling process. Combined with excess moisture, the dust and dirt left on the system’s coils create a breeding ground for mold and odors. The distinct, musty smell of mold is carried back into your home as cycling air moves over the coils during a cooling cycle.

Evaporator coils need to be cleaned for the elimination of dirt, debris, mold and mildew. Homeowners often turn to their trusted HVAC contractor to perform this essential maintenance service to protect the integrity and function of the system.

Clogged Condensate Drain

The cooling process extracts moisture from the home’s air supply, which means the air conditioner’s evaporator coil is normally exposed. The system’s drip pan and condensate drain lines function to remove this byproduct of cooling to control moisture levels within the evaporator coil cabinet, which deters mold growth.

However, if moisture collects in the drip pan and/or condensate drain line and does not properly exit the home, moisture surrounding the evaporator coils increases and creates the conditions mold needs to grow and remain. When your home’s air conditioning unit smells bad, the drip pan and condensate drain line need to be inspected as clogs can develop and block the removal of moisture from the air conditioner.

Extra Large Air Conditioner

Air conditioners that have a capacity too high for the home contribute to mold and mildew development. Oversized air conditioners complete cooling cycles too quickly; the air temperature is lowered to the setpoint before the system is able to dehumidify it. Moisture remains in the air as it travels throughout the cooling system and the home, which enables mold growth and odors in the home.

If Your Air Conditioner Smells Bad, Call A-1 Mechanical!

If your home’s air conditioner smells bad, odor isn’t the only problem you have. Mold and mildew are likely present, and will continue to be until their ideal environment is eliminated within your cooling equipment. There are other AC smells you should keep an eye out for, too. If your AC smells like rotten eggs, it could be an indication of a dead animal in the system or a natural gas leak. Either way, contact an HVAC company immediately.

A-1 Mechanical’s skilled air conditioner technicians are trained to remedy the indoor air quality and cooling system issues that cause mold and mildew to flourish within your equipment. If your air conditioner smells bad, contact us right away. Whether your home needs air conditioner maintenance, repair, replacement or indoor air quality services, we get the job done quickly to restore health, comfort and a clean scent to your household.

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Summers in central Michigan are hot, and you need a reliable air conditioner to provide relief indoors when it’s too hot and humid to be outside.

Unfortunately, air conditioners can break down for a number of reasons – leaving you to sweat it out while you search for a reliable HVAC company to make the repair. One frustrating scenario the HVAC technicians at A-1 Mechanical Heating & Cooling have seen many times is when an air conditioner’s condenser fan stops spinning, even though the actual system is running.

At A-1 Mechanical, we’ve provided homeowners in Grand Rapids and Lansing with reliable and trustworthy HVAC service since 1983. Our NATE-certified technicians are expertly trained to make all types of air conditioning repairs, including repairing condenser fans that suddenly stop working. Give A-1 Mechanical a call today to schedule service.

Why Did My Air Conditioner’s Fan Stop Running?

If your air conditioning is running but there is no cool air and the fan isn’t spinning, it’s best to call an HVAC company to properly diagnose the issue. There are several possible reasons why your air conditioner’s fan isn’t working, including:

Issues with the capacitor

One of the most common reasons fans stop spinning is because of a dead capacitor. The AC’s capacitors are small, cylinder components that send energy signals to power the fan motor and the rest of the AC unit. Each air conditioning system has several capacitors, including the start capacitor, which sends signals to the motor, and the run capacitor, which keeps the motor running. Capacitors can go bad over time and need to be replaced.

Power issues

It can be as simple as a power issue. If the circuit breaker is tripped due to overheating, it will cause your AC to stop running. This can be fixed by flipping the switch at the circuit breaker.

Burnt-out motor

Another common reason fans stop working is a burnt out fan motor. When fan motors are overworked – coupled with a lack of maintenance – they can tend to go bad and burn out. AC fan motors are expensive to replace and may lead to system replacement.

Blocked air filter

A blocked air filter restricts air flow, which can cause ice to build up. This puts more stress on the air conditioner’s fan and can cause it to shut down. Change your HVAC filters regularly to ensure proper airflow.

A faulty belt

Older AC condensers use a belt. Over time, belts can slip off or break. This can be easily fixed by an HVAC technician, but it may be time to consider system replacement.

Issues with the contactor

The AC’s contactor switch, located inside your compressor unit, sends voltage to the condenser unit and fan so they will run. These switches can go bad over time, causing your fan to stop working properly. Contactors need to be replaced by an HVAC contractor.

Call A-1 Mechanical for AC Repair Services

If you’re having any issues with your air conditioner, including a fan that stops working, contact A-1 Mechanical Heating & Cooling for expert air conditioning repair. We repair all makes and models of air conditioners. Don’t let hot temperatures and high humidity be your enemy this summer. Call A-1 Mechanical today for the best AC repair service around!

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Storms are common during the spring season, which can put your outdoor air conditioning unit at risk for damage. Don’t risk an interruption in operation and comfort as you wait for repairs. A-1 Mechanical shares how you can protect your outdoor AC unit from storms.

Protecting Your Air Conditioner from Falling Debris

Be proactive as much as possible prior to storms. Remove dead branches from trees and the ground around your property. Trim back branches that overhang the area to protect AC’s condenser unit from storms and powerful winds.

If high winds are expected, the outdoor unit can be covered with a tarp or sheet of plywood to protect its top from falling debris. Such a cover also offers protection for large hailstones. For elevated units, secure the condenser unit with hurricane straps.

To protect the air conditioner from storms and debris that blow into its sides, try building a structure around it for protection. Such a structure keeps leaves and other debris from being blown into the interior of the unit, which can cause damage, clogs and performance issues. Any structure should be built at least 24 inches away from the unit on all sides. Shrubbery with strong root systems also provides natural protection for the unit.

It’s important to only do so if the air conditioner will not be in use during the storm. Remove the cover as soon as the storm passes, as you don’t want moisture to be trapped inside the unit for too long.

Protection from Flooding

There’s no need to cover an outdoor unit just because of rain – this equipment is designed for exposure to the elements. If a flood is expected, covers may be of some benefit, but only when they are thoroughly sealed.

Anytime an air conditioning unit is exposed to flood waters, even if you used a cover, it needs to be inspected by a professional before further use. Components may have been damaged while sitting in flood waters, which could make the system dangerous to operate without repairs.

During a Storm

Once a storm rolls in, cut power to protect the outdoor AC system from electrical surges caused by close lightning strikes. Doing so also prevents damage that could occur if falling debris becomes lodged within the unit’s interior.

To avoid discomfort during a power outage – or if you turn off power to protect your air conditioning unit from storms – pre-cool your home. Prior to the storm, lower your thermostat settings several degrees. Keep window coverings, doors and windows shut to help your home hold in more of its cooling while the storm carries on.

After a Storm

Before using your air conditioner again after a storm, always inspect it for potential damage. Do not leave the system shut down for too long, as doing so may cause mold and mildew development due to trapped moisture. If you are unsure if the unit has been damaged or if it has been flooded, call your HVAC system professional for inspection before use.

Air Conditioner Repairs from A-1 Mechanical

Despite your best efforts and the tips mentioned in this blog, it’s not always possible to prevent damage. If your air conditioner has been damaged, A-1 Mechanical performs fast repairs to quickly restore your system and return cool air to your home. Contact A-1 Mechanical today to schedule service for your outdoor HVAC unit.

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What is it that makes some wonder “is my AC making my allergies worse” when we cool our Michigan homes? As Michiganders, we try to make the most of the summer weather, so it’s tough when your home is not the respite from the heat you need.

Why is that? Could you be allergic to your air conditioning? If you’re one of the growing number of Americans with asthma, do you feel your AC helps or hurts?

In this blog, we’ll cover why some Lansing and Grand Rapids residents feel allergies flare when the AC comes on, common indoor allergens and steps to reduce allergy symptoms when the air conditioning runs.

WHY IT FEELS LIKE AC TRIGGERS ALLERGIES

• Common “Air Conditioning” Allergy Symptoms
• Watery eyes
• Fever
• Dizziness
• Sneezing
• Coughing
• Tired/fatigue
• Shortness of breath

What many people experience isn’t an allergy to air conditioning, it’s actually a response to the airborne pollutants in their homes.

Poor Air Quality

As your HVAC system pulls air into the ductwork, it brings all sorts of airborne pollutants with them. Common indoor particulates include:

• Dust
• Pet dander
• Pollen
• Virus/Bacteria
• Mold/Mildew spores
• Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)

Your HVAC’s system’s air filter captures many of these but not all. If the filter is insufficient or already clogged, the contaminants circulate back into your rooms. Allergens spread and settle on surfaces, such as pillows and bedding. Poor air quality often affects babies, children, the elderly and anyone with a weakened immune system the most.

Too Much Humidity

For anyone with respiratory or certain cardiac conditions, high humidity easily triggers difficulty breathing or full-blown asthma attacks. High humidity levels also encourage dust mite, mold and mildew growth. These three pollutants are common allergens and asthma triggers.

How is air conditioning related to humidity?

Part of the air conditioning process is removing excess moisture from the air. Humidity, or water content in the air, makes you feel warmer, so removing the excess moisture helps you feel cooler. Less moisture in the air allows your perspiration to evaporate more easily.

WHAT YOU CAN DO TO REDUCE ALLERGY AND ASTHMA TRIGGERS FROM AIR CONDITIONING USE AT HOME

1. Check and change your air filter regularly
2. Follow regular preventive maintenance for your air conditioner
3. Improve the filtration of airborne contaminants within your system
4. Encourage healthy home practices

Air Filter Maintenance

We encourage homeowners to check air filters each month. A handy way to remember? When the gas or electric bill arrives, check your air filter the same day. Change it as necessary. For most Michigan homes, every two to three months is sufficient.

If, however, members of your household have pets, smoke or have compromised immune systems, a monthly change might be appropriate. A clean air filter also provides the best airflow to your air conditioner, furnace or heat pump.

Dirty filters create HVAC problems, like excess wear and tear, higher utility bills and greater risk or repairs or breakdowns.

Preventive Maintenance for Your HVAC System

When a qualified HVAC technician performs a tune up, he or she inspects the system and components. As part of the tune up, the tech cleans components and notes any circumstances of concern.

These might include leaky ductwork or evidence of rodents, insects or other pests. Leaks in the ductwork allow allergens to sneak inside the ducts and your conditioned air. Rodents leave nesting material, droppings and even carcasses, which shed airborne particulates into your home.

Therefore, in addition to a more efficient air conditioner, furnace or heat pump, preventive maintenance addresses air quality in your home.

Install Air Quality Products Within the HVAC System

If you find you need greater filtration or reduction of airborne allergy and asthma triggers, install air quality equipment. There’s a variety of options available including media air cleaners, air purifiers, dehumidifiers and humidifiers.

When installed within the HVAC system itself, the air quality equipment filters the air throughout the whole house. Portable units are usually insufficient and require more maintenance.

Air Cleaners
Some examples include the Carrier ® Infinity ® Air Purifier – DGAPA and the Carrier Comfort™ EZ Flex Cabinet Air Filter – EZXCAB.

Carrier ® Infinity ® Air Purifier – DGAPA
With whole house coverage, this air purifier uses “Captures & Kills™” technology to trap up to 95 percent of particles between 1.0 and 3.0 microns. Based on third-party testing, it even shows a greater than 99 percent kill rate for common cold surrogate Streptococcus pyogenes and human influenza.

Ever feel like your family passes the same cold germ or flu bug around for weeks? It could be in your home’s air, continually re-infecting you. It also offers flexible installation in upflow, downflow or horizontal flow furnaces.

Using easy to replace, long-lasting MERV 15 filters, Carrier offers a 10-year parts limited warranty.

Carrier Comfort EZ Flex Cabinet Air Filter – EZXCAB

Another option uses the deep-pleated style MERV 10 filter to promote airflow while it removes up to 65 percent of particulates as small as 1.0 micron.

The high-dust holding capacity allows for longer periods between easy to replace filter changes. For even more filtration, MERV 13 filters are available.

Ultraviolet Air Purifier Light
A simple modification to your HVAC system, an ultraviolet air purifier light neutralizes airborne pollutants as they pass through. These UV lamps kill contaminants like mold and bacteria on the coil before they reenter your home.

Dehumidifiers
You might be familiar with portable humidifiers sold at the pharmacy or dehumidifiers sold at big box stores. Unfortunately, these temporary solutions cannot control the amount of moisture in your whole home.

If you experience asthma attacks or allergy symptoms from excess humidity, consider a whole house dehumidifier. Ideal indoor humidity is contained between 30 and 50 percent. A dehumidifier controls the amount of moisture in the air and helps relieve the dehumidification job from your air conditioner.

Humidifiers
In the fall and winter, you may experience dry air. Common complaints of dry air include stale air, dry nasal passages, dry skin, static electricity and an increase in nosebleeds or viral and bacterial illnesses.

A whole house humidifier adds the correct amount of moisture to the air to decrease these symptoms and increase your comfort. Plus, when there’s the right amount of moisture in the air, you can set the heating system at a lower temperature.

Healthy Air Quality Habits to Avoid Feeling My AC is Making My Allergies Worse

Keep outdoors out
If pollen is a problem for you, leave your shoes at the door. There’s a lot of allergens tracked indoors on our shoes so keep them contained. Likewise, keep the windows and doors shut, especially during high pollen times.

If you’ve spent time outdoors, be sure to shower and wash your hair before bed. If pollen particulates are in your hair you don’t want to transfer them to your pillow and rub your face in them all night.

Pets and Grooming
Keep pets clean – stepping up their bath frequency if necessary. People can develop allergies at any point during their lifetime, including pet dander or saliva. If this isn’t enough, you might consider allergy shots.

Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)
If you’re unfamiliar, VOCs come from chemicals off-gassing in your home. Unfortunately, they’re everywhere, from craft and cleaning supplies to the adhesives used in carpeting to the foam in furniture cushions or mattresses.

Most people are familiar with the “new paint smell.” You’re smelling the paint off-gassing. Strong odors like this easily trigger allergies or asthma symptoms. It’s easy to assume “why is my AC making my allergies worse” in cases like this. Good news – low or zero VOC options are readily available and are now more price-competitive.

Switch to more eco-friendly cleaning supplies and consider the “green” component of furnishing and finish purchases. Organic options are available and use less toxic glues and materials.

BREATHE EASIER WHEN YOU CALL A-1 MECHANICAL

If the high indoor humidity is too uncomfortable or compromising the health of a family member, call our team in Lansing or Grand Rapids for help. We don’t want you to worry if your air conditioning is making your allergies worse – we want to relieve your air quality concerns.

We’re proud to offer a range of heating and cooling services to our communities including air conditioner installation and AC service and repair.

Check our offers page – we frequently offer specials on indoor air quality products designed to work with your central heating and air. To request a free estimate on new HVAC equipment or to book AC repair or service, call A-1 Mechanical at 517-348-0302.

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In the dog days of summer, it’s frustrating when you must ask, “why is my AC not cooling?” In this blog we’ll review some common causes, DIY fixes and when to call a pro.

There are several reasons a central air system stops cooling effectively, so we’ll begin with steps you can take before you call for AC repair from a professional HVAC contractor.

AC DIY TROUBLESHOOTING TIPS

1. Check the thermostat
2. Clear debris from the AC compressor outside
3. Check the air filter
4. Verify vents and returns inside are unblocked and open
5. See if the circuit breaker tripped

IF AC BLOWS WARM AIR OR WON’T TURN ON; CHECK THE THERMOSTAT

In some cases, an air conditioner turns on, but only blows warm or lukewarm air. Why is the AC not cooling? It could be because the thermostat is incorrectly installed or on the wrong setting.

AC Troubleshooting Fix

Verify the thermostat is set on “COOL.” Frequently, the lever or button is accidentally bumped by someone or even a vigorous duster! Plus, it’s easy, during spring and fall when our weather yo-yos a bit, to reset the thermostat after a temperature swing.

Also, check the fan setting. If the fan is set to “ON” instead of “AUTO” it runs 24 hours a day. In other words, the fan runs even when the air conditioner isn’t cooling.

In some cases, the thermostat is installed in a poor location, which impacts its ability to draw a true, ambient average temperature. Thermostats should be in interior rooms, away from windows, or in a hallway. Make sure there’s nothing nearby that could give off additional heat or even cooling, to confuse its temperature sensors.

Conclusion: Set thermostat on “COOL,” and the fan to “AUTO.”

IF AC STRUGGLES, HAS WEAK AIR OUTPUT; CHECK THE AC COMPRESSOR OUTSIDE

The AC compressor unit outside pumps the hot air out of your house when the air conditioner cools your house. If you use a heat pump, the compressor runs all year because a heat pump performs like an air conditioner in the summer but reverses the process in the winter.

In that case, the heat pump draws warm air from outdoors through the compressor and into the air handler where it’s distributed through the ductwork? How is that possible in colder states?

Believe it or not, heat pump technology continues to advance and keep many northern homes comfortable in every season. For example, during extreme temperatures, heat pumps draw on an auxiliary heat source, called electric heat strips. Air passes over the strips, just like a heat exchanger in a furnace, and absorbs the heat.

Regardless, heat pumps use the AC compressor unit all year. Therefore, it needs optimal airflow.

AC Troubleshooting Fix

Walk around the outdoor AC compressor unit. Clear away dirt, debris, fallen leaves and anything that’s collected around it. Too much vegetation or dirt “chokes” the AC compressor. It needs to “breathe” so make sure it’s clean.

• Locate the power switch; it’s usually inside a metal box near the AC compressor unit. Turn it off.
• Using a hose, gently spray away pollen, dirt and anything cluttering up the AC compressor fins and the base. Do not use a power washer. That is way too much force.
• Remove flowers, plants, or shrubs so that the AC compressor has a buffer zone of two to three feet.
• Make a habit of walking around the AC unit after storms to remove fallen leaves and twigs. It’s easy for twigs, for example, to end up inside the AC unit and cause problems with the fan blades.
• Trim any nearby branches if they’re leafy, thick or look like they’re dying. All it takes is a good storm and a heavy branch could really damage your AC compressor.
• When finished, let it dry as much as possible before switching it on again.

Conclusion: Clear away yard clutter and clean the outdoor unit.

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POOR AIRFLOW, AC SHUTS OFF EARLY OR AIR CONDITIONER FAILS TO FULLY COOL HOUSE; CHECK THE AIR FILTER

Similar to the AC compressor, your indoor components depend on good airflow. A clogged filter prevents air from easily passing through. The HVAC system strains to force air through the dirty filter. This puts excess wear and tear on your equipment, circulates contaminants and creates a lot of problems, including frozen evaporator coils.

AC Troubleshooting Fix

We recommend you check the filter in your HVAC system every month. Use the arrival of a gas or electric bill as a reminder. Most homes find a filter change every two to three months is sufficient. If your household includes smokers, pets or members sensitive to high pollen and other asthma and allergy triggers, change it more often.

Conclusion: Check your air filter and change it as needed.

_{^{Left: Dirty filter, Right, New filter. Image credit: Pinterest}}

AC NOT COOLING, HOT OR COLD SPOTS IN THE HOUSE; CHECK AIR VENTS

It’s common for furniture, drapes or temporary items like toys, to block air vents in the house. Again, obstructions to airflow cause your HVAC system to work harder, increasing the likelihood of an AC repair.

It’s common to have blower motor issues, frozen evaporator coils or water leaking from your air conditioner due to poor airflow. Return vents are usually larger squares or rectangles and draw air into the ducts.

They are sometimes high on the wall, but sometimes below knee-level. Supply vents are the smaller rectangle vents on the floor or up high on the ceiling.

AC Troubleshooting Fix

Walk around the house and check all the return and supply vents. Move anything blocking airflow and make sure they’re open. Sometimes homeowners think closing vents in rarely used rooms saves money. It actually disturbs the air pressure in the home and creates more problems.

Conclusion: Keep air vents unblocked and open.

AC NOT COOLING, WON’T COME ON OR SHUTS DOWN QUICKLY; CHECK CIRCUIT BREAKER BOX

Did you know the most power surges come from within your own home? Sure, lightning and external power grid issues occasionally blast power into your home, but the majority of the time, it’s your own appliances. Large appliances, like air conditioners, push a power surge through the system when they start up. If your air conditioner stops abruptly, it could be an electrical problem.

AC Troubleshooting Fix

Find the main electrical panel for your house and look for circuit breakers in the OFF position. If you’re lucky enough to have clearly-labeled circuit breakers, look for “AC” or “Air Conditioner.” If it’s tripped, push the breaker into the “ON” position and see what happens.

Conclusion: It’s possible a one-time event tripped the circuit breaker. If, however, the breaker immediately trips again when you try to run the AC, turn off the air conditioner and call a professional. It’s likely you have an electrical issue.

COMMON AC NOT COOLING ISSUES FOR PROS

If the DIY AC troubleshooting tips haven’t resolved your issues, it’s best if you call professionals for help. Common air conditioner problems causing your AC to not cool your home include:

• Refrigerant problems. It could be a leak or low charge. Regardless, refrigerant is a toxic chemical and you don’t want to mess with it. Call an HVAC technician.
• Fan motor issues. If the fan motor is broken or suffering from electrical issues, it can push cool air through your house. Call an HVAC technician.
• Bad capacitor. If the capacitor is bad, your AC isn’t getting the power it needs. You need a replacement from an HVAC technician.
• Worn out AC compressor. The compressor is a major component and often under a separate warranty. Call an HVAC technician to see if it can be saved. If not, you may need to consider an air conditioner replacement.

Weigh the cost of repair against the cost of new air conditioner installation. Consider with a new AC you’ll get a new warranty and if it’s more energy-efficient, lower AC bills immediately.

AC STILL NOT COOLING? CALL A-1 MECHANICAL

If these central air conditioning troubleshooting tips haven’t solved the problem, call our team in Lansing or Grand Rapids for help. We’re eager to help when you find your AC not cooling effectively. We offer a range of heating and cooling services to our communities including air conditioner installation, AC service and repair.

For a free estimate on new HVAC equipment or to book AC repair or service, call A-1 Mechanical at 517-348-0302.

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