What Causes Summer Air Conditioning Breakdowns

You just can’t beat a classic North Carolina summer. The Blue Ridge Parkway provides unparalleled mountain vistas while the Outer Banks boasts breathtaking barrier island seascapes. There are plenty of options when choosing a getaway destination in our great state, but nothing kills travel plans faster than an unexpected HVAC failure.

Check out these 5 reasons why air conditioners fail in the summertime, so you can spend less time scratching your head and more time planning that family beach trip!

#1 Leaking Refrigerant

While North Carolina summers are beautiful, the heat can sometimes become overwhelming. This means you could be running your AC unit for weeks at a time. The more the system is used, the refrigerant cycles through the unit faster and under more pressure. This prolonged strain could lead to a leak,  which will result in a jingling noise from your AC and a home that’s much too warm. Call a licensed professional to address the problem as soon as possible!

#2 Clogged Air Filter

Summer allergens can clog up your air filters since your system is on more. A clogged filter causes your air conditioner to work harder to provide you and your family with the desired level of comfort. This not only wastes energy, but can also lead to overheating and breakdowns. Plus, clogged filters lower the indoor air quality in your home. Regularly check your air filters to make sure allergens are not building up in your system!

#3 Frozen Coils

Frozen coils are one of the most common summer AC problems. Commonly caused by grimy buildup from everyday use, a layer of ice or frost forms on the coils and prevents them from absorbing heat from the air. This renders your system ineffective, as the only air that will be circulated through your home will be warm. A professional can clean out any grimy buildup and quickly restore your AC unit.

#4 Faulty Motor Capacitors

Since your air conditioning will be getting a workout during the summer months, the motor capacitors can become inefficient. Because the capacitors are vital pieces of equipment, failure will cause your motors and fans to cease working as well. If this happens, your system will not be able to circulate air throughout your home. If your capacitors do blow out, contact a technician quickly, as your system will require some repairs.

#5 Faulty Outside Fan

If your AC fan is not functioning properly, heat cannot be adequately removed from your home. The fan can give out for a lot of reasons, including regular wear and tear, loose belts or cracks. Because there are many minor issues that can quickly turn into major problems, it is essential to schedule maintenance on your unit at least once every year to check up on and rejuvenate your system.

If you are experiencing any of these issues, or have questions regarding your AC unit, give us a call at any of our five North Carolina locations. We would be happy to help in any way we can!