When your air conditioner stops working during a scorching Florida summer, your first instinct might be to call a technician. While professional help is often necessary, there are some common AC problems you can troubleshoot yourself before making that call. Homeowners in cities like Auburndale, Lakeland, Winter Haven, and beyond can save time and money by tackling minor issues at home.
At Freedom Air Conditioning, we’re here to help with both DIY tips and professional repairs. Let’s explore some common AC problems and the steps you can take to troubleshoot them before reaching out to us.
1. AC Won’t Turn On
Potential Causes:
- A tripped circuit breaker
- A blown fuse
- A malfunctioning thermostat
How to Troubleshoot:
- Check the Power Supply:
Ensure the AC unit is plugged in and the circuit breaker hasn’t tripped. Reset the breaker if needed. - Inspect the Thermostat:
Set your thermostat to “cool” and lower the temperature a few degrees below the current room temperature. Replace the thermostat batteries if necessary. - Examine the Fuse Box:
If your home in Bartow, Lake Wales, or Davenport has a blown fuse, replace it and check if the AC starts running.
2. Weak or No Airflow
Potential Causes:
- Clogged air filters
- Blocked vents or ducts
- A malfunctioning blower motor
How to Troubleshoot:
- Replace or Clean Air Filters:
Dirty air filters restrict airflow and can cause the AC to overwork. Replace filters every 1-3 months, especially in high-use areas like Haines City and Plant City. - Inspect Vents and Ducts:
Ensure that vents and ducts aren’t blocked by furniture, dust, or debris. - Check the Blower Motor:
If airflow is still weak, the issue may lie with the blower motor. This may require professional attention.
3. Warm Air from the Vents
Potential Causes:
- Incorrect thermostat settings
- Refrigerant issues
- Dirty evaporator coils
How to Troubleshoot:
- Double-Check the Thermostat:
Ensure it’s set to “cool” and the fan is set to “auto.” - Inspect the Outdoor Unit:
Debris such as leaves or dirt can block the condenser coil. Clear away any obstructions to improve cooling efficiency. - Look for Refrigerant Leaks:
If warm air persists, there may be a refrigerant leak, common in humid areas like Bradenton, Sarasota, and Clermont. A professional technician will need to handle this issue.
4. AC Keeps Turning On and Off
Potential Causes:
- A dirty air filter
- Improper thermostat placement
- A frozen evaporator coil
How to Troubleshoot:
- Clean or Replace the Filter:
A clogged filter can cause the system to overheat and short cycle. - Check the Thermostat Location:
If the thermostat is near heat sources like lamps or direct sunlight, it may misread the temperature. Relocate it if possible. - Defrost the Evaporator Coil:
Turn off the system and let the coil thaw completely. This can take several hours. To speed up the process, use a fan to blow air over the coils.
5. Strange Noises During Operation
Potential Causes:
- Loose or broken parts
- Fan or motor issues
- Debris inside the unit
How to Troubleshoot:
- Inspect the Unit for Debris:
Check for sticks, leaves, or other debris in the outdoor unit. - Tighten Loose Screws or Components:
Use a screwdriver to secure any loose panels or fasteners. - Call for Professional Help:
If the noise persists, homeowners in Mulberry, Riverview, or Auburndale should contact Freedom Air Conditioning for further inspection.
6. Water Leaks Around the Unit
Potential Causes:
- A clogged condensate drain line
- A frozen evaporator coil
- A cracked drain pan
How to Troubleshoot:
- Clear the Condensate Drain Line:
Use a wet/dry vacuum to remove clogs from the drain line. - Check the Evaporator Coil:
If the coil is frozen, turn off the AC and allow it to thaw. - Inspect the Drain Pan:
Look for cracks or damage, especially in older systems in Bartow and Lake Wales.
7. High Energy Bills
Potential Causes:
- Inefficient system performance
- Dirty air filters
- Leaky ductwork
How to Troubleshoot:
- Replace Filters Regularly:
Dirty filters force your system to work harder, increasing energy usage. - Seal Leaky Ducts:
Use duct tape or call a professional to seal any leaks in the ductwork. - Schedule a Maintenance Check:
Regular maintenance can improve efficiency and lower energy bills for homes in Tampa, Bradenton, and Winter Haven.
8. Bad Odors from the AC
Potential Causes:
- Mold or mildew in the ducts
- A burnt-out wire or component
- A clogged condensate line
How to Troubleshoot:
- Clean the Ducts:
If you notice a musty smell, mold or mildew might be present. Consider professional duct cleaning, especially in humid areas like Sarasota. - Inspect the Condensate Line:
Flush the line with a mixture of water and vinegar to remove clogs. - Call for Repairs:
For persistent odors, contact a technician to diagnose and resolve the issue.
When to Call a Technician
If you’ve tried troubleshooting these common problems and your AC is still not functioning properly, it’s time to call a professional. At Freedom Air Conditioning, we’ve been serving homeowners in Auburndale, Lakeland, Bartow, and beyond since 2013.
Our Location:
207 Gandy Rd, Suite B, Auburndale, FL 33823
Contact Us:
Call us at (863) 229-7058 or visit our website at myfreedomair.net to schedule an appointment.
Preventative Maintenance is Key
Preventing AC problems before they start is always the best approach. Our maintenance plans are designed to keep your system running smoothly, ensuring comfort year-round for homeowners in Winter Haven, Davenport, and Clermont.
Troubleshooting common AC problems can often save you time and money, but some issues require the expertise of a professional. If you’re in Auburndale, Lakeland, or any nearby city and need help, trust Freedom Air Conditioning to get the job done right.
Call us today at (863) 229-7058, or visit myfreedomair.net to schedule a service and keep your home cool and comfortable!
