7 reasons why your AC system is acting up, and suggestions on what to do about them

7 reasons why your AC system is acting up, and suggestions on what to do about them


7 reasons why your AC system is acting up, and suggestions on what to do about them
Warm air coming from the vents
This could be minor or major. 
If the filter is dirty, you can replace or clean it.
But if the filter isn’t the problem, then the trouble could be a fan condenser or switch that broke, ducts that are clogged, or dirt that fouls the coils.
 
The AC stops working
The electrical system may be malfunctioning or dirt in the thermostat keeps it from functioning properly. If you need to replace the thermostat you might want to buy a “smart” thermostat. It’s programmable and usually cuts energy usage enough to pay for itself in fairly short order.
 
Air stops blowing from the vents
The blower motor may need repairs or ducts are clogged with dirt, blocking the airflow.
 
Water is leaking from the AC system
Dirty filters can cause ice to temporarily form on the evaporator’s coils. The ice melts, causing puddles and drips. Or there’s a clog in the line that brings condensation to the drainpipe.
 
Refrigerant is leaking
The refrigerant is stored in the coils. If the refrigerant level drops too much, the condenser must work harder to keep the air at the desired temperature. This can cause the condenser to wear out.
Your best move is to call a licensed technician who can adjust the refrigerant level and capture any refrigerant that escaped. Refrigerant is a low-level gas that transforms itself into a high-pressure liquid as part of the cooling process.
 
The coils are dirty
When coils get filthy, they make the compressor work harder, which can lead to failure. The compressor is a key part of your AC system; it circulates refrigerant and applies energy to the refrigerant. The compressor and the condenser are very expensive to repair or replace.
 
The drain isn’t working
The trap may be clogged by mold, algae and debris that infiltrate the AC system, and then get into your home, where they can cause breathing problems.
 
Electrical and sensor problems
These can be very simple to fix – a fuse is dirty or a wire is loose. But they may be more complicated – a capacitor has gone bad or the wiring is shorting out.
 
Improve your odds
You can avoid or minimize these issues by calling Lighthouse HVAC at 646-442-1556 to check your system periodically. Our licensed, experienced technicians will make a thorough inspection, cleaning and tweaking as needed, and tell you if any components show serious wear and tear. Lighthouse HVAC services residential and commercial HVAC, boilers and furnaces in Long Island and New York City.