AC Repair in Mission Viejo, CA

Air Conditioner Troubleshooting Tips

Dealing with a broken air conditioner? Check out this helpful information about what may be going wrong and what you can look into before giving us a call. 

Frozen Air Conditioner

“Frozen air conditioner” typically refers to a situation where the evaporator coils within the unit become so cold that they freeze over. Freezing can cause the air conditioner to operate inefficiently, leading to reduced cooling performance and potentially damaging the unit. It's important to address this issue promptly.

If your air conditioner is freezing up, here are some common causes and solutions:

• Dirty Air Filters: Check and replace dirty air filters.
• Low Refrigerant: If your air conditioner is low on refrigerant, it may need to be recharged.
• Airflow Obstructions: Ensure there are no obstructions blocking airflow to the outdoor unit.
• Faulty Components: A malfunctioning fan motor or thermostat can also cause freezing.

Leaking Air Conditioner

A leaking air conditioner can be a nuisance and potentially lead to water damage. Here are some common causes and what you can do:

1. Clogged Drain Pan / Blocked Drain Line

• Cause: The drain line and drain pan, which divert and collect condensate from the cooling process, can become clogged with dirt, debris, or algae.
• Solution: Clean the drain line and pan regularly to prevent clogs. You can use a mild cleaning solution and a brush to remove any buildup.

2. Refrigerant Leak

• Cause: A leak in the refrigerant lines can cause the air conditioner to freeze up and leak water.
• Solution: Refrigerant leaks should be addressed by a professional HVAC technician. They can use specialized tools to locate and repair the leak.

3. Improper Installation

• Cause: If the air conditioner was not installed correctly, it may be leaking due to improper leveling or drainage.
• Solution: Contact Econo Air to inspect the installation and make any necessary adjustments.

4. Excessive Humidity

• Cause: High humidity levels can cause the air conditioner to work harder, leading to more condensation and potential leaks.
• Solution: Improve the indoor humidity by using dehumidifiers or increasing ventilation.

If you notice a leak from your air conditioner, it's important to address the issue promptly to prevent water damage and ensure your unit is operating efficiently. If you're unable to identify the cause or resolve the problem yourself, contact Econo Air for assistance.

Air Conditioner Won't Turn On

If your air conditioner isn't turning on, try the following steps:

• First, check the thermostat. Make sure it's set to the correct mode and that the batteries are fresh. 
• Second, check your circuit breaker. Verify that the power is on and that the circuit breaker hasn't tripped. If the circuit breaker trips again after resetting, do not attempt to continue resetting; contact an electrician for an inspection.
• Third, inspect the air filter. If it's dirty or clogged, it can restrict airflow and prevent the air conditioner from starting. Replace it with a clean one.

If these troubleshooting steps don't work, it's best to call Econo Air to diagnose and repair the problem.

Air Conditioner Short Cycling

AC short cycling is a condition where an air conditioner turns on and off rapidly without running for a significant period. This can be caused by several factors, including:

• Dirty air filters: Clogged filters restrict airflow, causing the unit to work harder and shut off sooner.
• Refrigerant leaks: A refrigerant leak can reduce the cooling capacity, leading to frequent cycling.
• Thermostat issues: A faulty thermostat can send incorrect signals to the air conditioner, causing it to cycle on and off.
• Electrical problems: Loose wires or blown fuses can disrupt the air conditioner's operation.

Short cycling can be inefficient and lead to increased energy consumption. If you notice your air conditioner short cycling, it's recommended to contact a professional HVAC technician to diagnose and address the underlying issue.