Filter

A clogged or dirty filter is one of the most common causes of air conditioner failure. Replace your air filter according to the manufacturer's recommendations. Some are used once a month, others three times a year, and some are reusable and should be cleaned when they become dirty. Checking if any light passes through a filter to see if it needs to be cleaned is one way to tell. It's time to clean it if it isn't already. Filters that are dirty not only reduce air flow but can also cause the air conditioner to freeze.

 

Thermostat

Another simple fix is to ensure that your thermostat (which regulates the temperature in your home) is turned on, that the inside is clean, that it is level, that it is not exposed to sunlight, and that it is set to the correct temperature. If the problem persists, there may be a more serious problem.

 

Refrigerant Leaks

When the coolant in the air conditioner begins to leak, the unit will not function properly, and the temperature will fluctuate. Because the location of the leak affects the cost of the repair, it is recommended that this be checked yearly by a trained AC technician.

 

Drainage

The drain line, like the filter, can become clogged with dirt, dust, and lint. If it becomes clogged, the drain pan will fill up with water, potentially causing damage to the AC unit or whatever is around your pan.

 

Breakers or Fuses

The breakers and fuses protect the motor or compressor of the AC unit from overheating. When a motor fails, one of the first things an HVAC technician looks at is the breaker.

 

Capacitors

The motors that power the compressor and fans will not function without capacitors. The start capacitor sends a jolt to the motor to activate it, while the run capacitor sends a series of jolts to keep the motor running. If either of these components burns out, the AC unit will not function properly.

 

Compressor

The compressor applies energy to the refrigerant and propels it through the coils to exchange heat. The AC unit will not cool your home if the compressor fails. If there’s not enough refrigerant, the compressor will run hot and eventually seize. If there’s too much, the refrigerant will return to the compressor, which can cause it to fail.

 

Evaporator Coils

Evaporator coils absorb heat from the air and return it to the house as cold air via a network of air ducts. Coils can corrode, but if they are located inside, they usually only need to be serviced every three years.

 

Condenser Coils

Because condenser coils are located outside with the compressor, they can become dirty as a result of exposure to the elements. They can usually be cleaned with a water hose once a year, but if they become too dirty, an HVAC technician will have to use a chemical cleaner to clean them.

 

Worn Contactor

In an AC unit, there are contactors for the compressor, the blower motor, and the condenser fan motor. They make an electrical connection that starts the motors and compressor. If there’s arcing and pitting on the contactor, it becomes difficult for electric current to start the motors.