If you’ve spent a few summers in the Midwest, you know that the heat can be humid, sticky, and impossible to escape without a reliable air conditioner. When the temperature climbs and your AC is not doing its job, your home can go from cozy to unbearable in no time. Air conditioning systems go through a lot, and issues will pop up. What are the most common AC problems in the Midwest? Here is what you need to know to stay cool during the hottest months.
Frozen Evaporator Coils
If you inspect your system and notice ice forming on the indoor unit or the refrigerant lines, that’s a sign that your evaporator coils are frozen. This happens when something restricts airflow through the system. It might be a clogged filter, closed-off vents, or dirt on the coils. Sometimes, it is caused by low refrigerant levels. Either way, your system cannot absorb heat, so everything backs up and freezes over.
You will want to shut off your AC immediately to let those coils thaw. Also, make sure to check your filter. If you notice it is dirty, swap it out. Ensure that furniture or curtains aren’t blocking your vents. However, if the freezing happens again, you’ll need a licensed HVAC technician to inspect things.
Refrigerant Leaks
Refrigerant is the lifeblood of your cooling system. Without the right amount, your AC can’t keep your house cool. If your system is low on refrigerant, it means there’s a leak.
You might notice warm air blowing from the vents. Sometimes, the unit makes a faint hissing sound. Some people notice their energy bills creeping up for no clear reason. Other times, there may even be frost on the copper lines outside.
You cannot fix this on your own. Handling refrigerants is regulated by law. A certified technician will need to locate the leak, repair it, and recharge the system.
Dirty or Clogged Air Filters
This is a completely preventable problem. When your air filter gets too dirty, airflow slows down. That means your system has to work harder to cool your home. In turn, that strain can lead to other issues, like frozen coils or even motor damage.
If your filter looks gray or clogged, it’s time for a fresh one. You should replace it every one to three months. However, if a replacement has not helped with your cooling issues, you may need to call a technician to check for other airflow problems.
Electrical Failures
Electrical failures can cause a wide range of problems for your air conditioning unit. You might notice that your AC is struggling to start. Sometimes, your breaker trips when the unit turns on. These are all signs of an issue with wiring, capacitors, or other internal components.
Electrical work inside an HVAC system should only be done by a licensed professional. An experienced technician can safely inspect the system, replace any damaged parts, and ensure that your AC is operating safely.
Thermostat Troubles
Not all AC issues start with the system itself. Sometimes, the problem lies with the thermostat. Check this device if your house never seems to reach the set temperature or if your system won’t kick on at all.
You might want to replace the batteries first and double-check the settings. Make sure it’s set to “cool” and that the temperature is lower than the current room temperature. If the screen is blank or unresponsive, it may be time for a replacement. If it’s still not working, a professional can test the wiring. An upgrade to a newer, smarter thermostat may be needed.
Clogged Drain Line
On muggy Midwest days, your AC pulls a lot of moisture out of the air. That condensation drains through a small pipe. Over time, that pipe can get clogged with dust, algae, or debris. When that happens, water might leak around the unit. In serious situations, it can lead to mold or water damage.
Some people try flushing the line with vinegar, but that’s only a temporary fix. If your system shuts down, an HVAC technician can clear the blockage and check for any lasting issues.
Compressor Problems
The compressor is like the engine of your AC system. When it fails, your whole system struggles to keep running. If your outdoor unit is making loud noises or vibrating, that could indicate compressor trouble.
This is one of the more serious AC issues. Unfortunately, you cannot diagnose or repair it yourself. A technician can assess whether the compressor can be repaired or if a replacement is better for your home.
Short Cycling
When your air conditioner keeps turning on and off in rapid bursts, this is known as short cycling. When this happens, your home never really gets comfortable, and you might even notice your energy bills spiking.
This problem can be caused by thermostat issues, poor airflow, low refrigerant, or an oversized system. It is advisable to have a professional take a look to determine what is causing the quick cycling and to help prevent long-term damage to your equipment.
Outdoor Unit Obstructions
Since the air conditioning works inside your home, it can be easy to forget that the main components spend time in the great outdoors. In the Midwest, the unit can get buried under leaves in the fall, blocked by grass in the summer, or even covered in snow during a late spring cold snap.
If your system is running but not cooling, you may want to walk outside to inspect it. Clear away any visible debris and ensure that nothing is leaning or growing too close to it. If problems persist, a technician can clean the coils and ensure that the airflow is back to normal.
Wear and Tear on Aging Systems
Over time, even the best-maintained AC systems will start to slow down. If your unit is more than 10 or 15 years old and you notice reduced performance, it might be reaching the end of its lifespan. You may want to have our technicians conduct a thorough inspection. They can let you know if repairs will be sufficient or if it’s time to consider an upgrade.
How To Avoid These Problems in the First Place
While some AC issues are inevitable with age and use, many can be avoided with a bit of regular care. You need to stay on top of your air filter changes. A clean filter can prevent everything from frozen coils to short cycling.
Additionally, scheduling annual maintenance with a trusted HVAC professional can make a huge difference. Technicians can catch small issues before they turn into expensive repairs. They will clean your coils, check refrigerant levels, and ensure that every part of your system is running as it should.
If you are experiencing issues with your AC or want to schedule maintenance, contact Air Care Heating & Cooling in Shawnee, KS. Since 1981, we have been delivering high-quality heating and cooling services throughout the area. You can count on our team to ensure you stay comfortable in any Midwest season.
Contact Air Care Heating & Cooling now to schedule your AC maintenance, repairs, and installation services. We can also help with your indoor air quality needs.
