Living in Florida, where temperatures can soar, reliable air conditioning is essential for comfort and safety. However, Florida’s unique climate—hot, humid, and prone to storms—can make air conditioning systems work harder, leading to common issues that homeowners frequently encounter. Knowing these issues and how to address them can help you avoid costly repairs and keep your home cool year-round.
At Freedom Air Conditioning, we serve homeowners across Auburndale, Lakeland, Winter Haven, Davenport, and beyond, providing expert AC services tailored to Florida’s challenging weather. Below, we explore some common air conditioner problems in Florida and offer tips on how to fix them.
1. AC Not Blowing Cold Air
Problem:
One of the most frustrating issues Florida homeowners face is when their AC unit is running, but it’s not blowing cold air. This could be caused by a variety of issues, including low refrigerant levels, a dirty air filter, or a malfunctioning compressor.
Fix:
- Check the Air Filter: A clogged filter can restrict airflow, causing the system to work inefficiently. Replacing or cleaning the filter regularly can help.
- Inspect the Thermostat: Sometimes, the thermostat settings may have been accidentally changed, or the batteries might be low. Ensure it is set to “cool” and the temperature is lower than the current room temperature.
- Refrigerant Check: Low refrigerant could indicate a leak, which requires professional repair. For this, contact Freedom Air Conditioning for a prompt inspection.
2. AC Freezing Up
Problem:
Despite the Florida heat, some homeowners notice their air conditioner’s coils freezing up. This usually happens because of airflow restrictions, low refrigerant, or a dirty evaporator coil.
Fix:
- Change Air Filters: Blocked airflow is often caused by dirty filters. Replace or clean them monthly to ensure proper airflow.
- Clear the Vents: Ensure that all vents in your home are open and free of obstructions. Blocked vents can cause freezing issues.
- Call a Professional: If the problem persists, the refrigerant may be low, or the evaporator coil might need cleaning. Reach out to our experienced team for an in-depth assessment.
3. High Humidity Indoors
Problem:
Florida’s humidity is no joke, and while your air conditioner should help reduce humidity levels inside, a malfunctioning system might leave your home feeling damp and sticky. This often happens when the system is too large or too small for the home or if the system’s refrigerant levels are off.
Fix:
- Check System Size: If your AC unit is oversized, it will cycle on and off too quickly, preventing it from properly dehumidifying the air. Contact us to evaluate whether your system is the right size for your home.
- Consider a Dehumidifier: In some cases, adding a dehumidifier to your HVAC system can improve indoor air quality.
- Schedule a Maintenance Check: Our technicians can inspect your system to ensure it’s running efficiently and suggest solutions to balance your indoor humidity levels.
4. AC Making Strange Noises
Problem:
Loud or unusual noises like banging, clanking, or screeching coming from your air conditioner indicate mechanical issues. This can range from loose parts to a damaged fan blade or motor problems.
Fix:
- Turn Off the Unit: Continuing to run the system could cause further damage. Shut it down and inspect for any visible debris or issues.
- Check for Loose Parts: Tightening any visibly loose screws or components may solve the problem. However, more serious issues like motor failure require professional intervention.
- Contact Freedom Air: Unusual noises are often a sign that you need to schedule a professional inspection. We can identify and fix the issue quickly.
5. AC Leaking Water
Problem:
Water leaking from your air conditioner is typically caused by a clogged condensate drain line, a dirty air filter, or a malfunctioning pump.
Fix:
- Unclog the Drain Line: Over time, debris and algae can build up in the drain line. You can clean it by running vinegar or a drain cleaner through the pipe.
- Replace the Filter: A dirty air filter can cause the evaporator coils to freeze and defrost, leading to water leakage. Regularly changing filters can prevent this.
- Call an Expert: If water is pooling near your AC, you may need a technician to clean the condensate drain line and inspect for any more serious issues.
6. Frequent AC Cycling
Problem:
In Florida’s heat, air conditioners may cycle on and off frequently. This can happen when the system is oversized, the thermostat is placed in a hot zone, or the air filter is dirty.
Fix:
- Adjust the Thermostat: Make sure the thermostat isn’t exposed to direct sunlight or placed near heat sources that might cause it to misread the temperature.
- Check Air Filters: A simple fix could be to clean or replace dirty air filters that are obstructing airflow.
- Evaluate System Size: If the AC system is too large for your home, it may need to be replaced with a properly sized unit. Our team can evaluate your cooling needs and suggest an energy-efficient option like the Daikin Fit system.
7. Electrical Issues
Problem:
Power surges, storm damage, or tripped breakers can cause your air conditioner to shut down. Florida’s frequent thunderstorms often lead to electrical problems in HVAC systems.
Fix:
- Check the Circuit Breaker: If your AC isn’t turning on, check the breaker box to see if it’s tripped. Resetting it could solve the issue.
- Inspect the Wiring: Over time, wires can degrade or become loose. If you suspect a wiring issue, it’s important to call a professional rather than attempt to fix it yourself, as it poses a fire hazard.
- Install Surge Protectors: To prevent future electrical damage, consider installing a surge protector specifically for your HVAC system.
Need AC Help? Contact Freedom Air Conditioning
If you’re experiencing any of these common AC issues, the expert team at Freedom Air Conditioning is here to help. Based in Auburndale, FL, we proudly serve nearby areas like Lakeland, Winter Haven, Davenport, and Bartow. Our technicians are highly skilled in diagnosing and fixing air conditioning problems, ensuring your home stays cool and comfortable all year round.
For reliable AC repairs, maintenance, or installation, contact us today at (863) 229-7058 or visit our website at myfreedomair.net for more information or to schedule an appointment. We’re committed to providing high-quality service and keeping your home cool and comfortable!
