For many, summer is a time for vacations and fun outdoor activities. It’s also the time of year when you really appreciate the comfort of your cooling system. The summer heat can be quite unbearable if your air conditioning system isn’t working properly. What follows are four common cooling problems you could encounter.

Common AC Problems: Dirty Air Filter

With longer and hotter days during the summer, you will be running your cooling system for longer periods of time. That means it’s very important that the air filter is changed as recommended by the filter manufacturer and your HVAC professional that services your system. That leads to one of the most common air conditioning problems: a dirty air filter. If you use the 30 day filters be sure to check the air filter each month to keep your cooling system running smoothly, to protect parts, and to save energy. Note that your HVAC professional will change the filter during the precision maintenance tune up on your system.

Common AC Problems: Frozen Evaporator Coil

The evaporator coil is the air conditioning component responsible for removing heat from indoor air. When the air conditioner is on, the evaporator coil fills with extremely cold refrigerant vapor, which absorbs heat. When airflow is inadequate, ice forms on the coil, which makes the air conditioner blow warm air. To promote good airflow, make sure the air filter isn’t clogged and that the air vents aren’t closed or blocked.

Common AC Problems: Leaky Ductwork

Good ductwork design is necessary to cool your home evenly. Ducts should be sized and installed for efficient airflow from the air handler to the air vents, and there should not be any air leaks.

If you have leaks in the air ducts or if the ducts aren’t designed correctly, you’re going to experience uneven temperatures and waste energy. Schedule an appointment with your HVAC professional to inspect your ductwork and make any needed repairs or ductwork replacement.

Common AC Problems: Bad Capacitor

The air conditioner capacitor is an electrical component of your HVAC cooling system that initializes operation when the sytem turns on. If the capacitor is bad, the air conditioner may not turn on, it may blow warm air, or it may make a clicking or humming noise. If you recognize any of these signs, call your HVAC company for service.

For all your heating and cooling needs, contact the professionals at Jackson & Sons today!