If your air conditioner isn’t working, your home can get uncomfortable rather quickly. Some issues will require a visit from an HVAC contractor, but there are ways you can address some problems on your own. Here are a few malfunctions you might encounter, and how you should respond.

Common Air Conditioner Issues

1. Strange Noises

It’s normal for air conditioners to create some noise while they work, but strange sounds could indicate an issue. For example, squealing noises might mean a belt has deteriorated or been thrown off its alignment, whereas grinding sounds could point to motor problems, and rattling may be due to loose cover panels.

If the latter is at fault, you can tighten the parts yourself with a screwdriver. You can also replace a worn-out belt if you’re comfortable performing DIY repairs. However, motor problems should be handled by a professional, as they could require in-depth solutions.

2. Warm Air

Air conditioners can sometimes run without producing any cold air. If the air filter hasn’t been changed in a while, or the outdoor unit has debris on it, the blockages could cause this problem. You could also be running low on refrigerant, which typically means there’s a leak. Be sure to call an HVAC contractor in this case, as working with this substance can be dangerous.

Lastly, your unit might not be able to contend with the heat outside. If temperatures rise too high, some ACs can’t reach the thermostat settings, and replacing the unit itself is the only solution.

3. No Air

If your HVAC isn’t producing any air at all, it could mean the outdoor unit’s breaker has tripped. A simple reset of the breaker box next to the unit should be enough to correct this issue, but if restarting it doesn’t work, you might need to get a blower belt replacement.

Other potential causes include wiring issues and a faulty thermostat. You can replace an older thermostat if you suspect that's the problem, but an HVAC expert will tell you exactly what’s wrong. As for electrical wiring, only a professional should ever attempt a fix for safety reasons.

If your air conditioning isn’t working correctly, turn to the HVAC contractors at Thomaston Oil in Litchfield County, CT. You can count on these experts for repairs, replacements, and preventative maintenance, all at reasonable prices. To schedule an appointment today, call (860) 283-4878 or visit them online.