Common AC Problems and Solutions

When the weather gets really hot in Myrtle Beach, the last thing you want is a broken air conditioner. Many common problems with air conditioning systems can arise. Our team at Coastal Air + Refrigeration wants you to be aware, prepared, and ready to solve these air conditioning issues so you and your family can stay cool this summer.

Inconsistent Cooling

Do you find some of your rooms are too cold while others are still on the warm side? Many South Carolina homeowners have trouble with inconsistent cooling. While factors such as the age and design of your home can cause these consistency issues, you may also have a leak in your duct system. One of our trained professionals can come and inspect your air conditioner and duct system and suggest solutions to this problem.

Failure to Cool

If your air conditioner is simply blowing warm air, you may want to check simple things like your filter. Dirty filters can prevent your system from functioning properly and are easy to change. They can also decrease the efficiency of your system. 

In fact, you can save between 20 and 50 percent of the energy used for your air conditioning by changing your filter in combination with other energy-saving actions.

In some cases, you may need to clean condenser coils or have one of our professionals come out and add refrigerant to your air conditioner due to a leak in your system. Other mechanical failures may cause cooling issues as well. 

One way to ensure your air conditioner is ready for the season is to have regular maintenance performed. One of our highly trained and experienced professionals can conduct a thorough inspection, cleaning, and tune-up to be sure all system components are running well.

No Air Movement

When you place your hand on a room’s register and feel no air blowing at all, even though your air conditioning unit is turned on, you may have a broken fan or thermostat, or a tripped breaker.

It’s easy to fix your tripped breaker on your own, and you can inspect your unit to see if you notice the fan is running or not. Other less common issues may be a bad blower belt or wiring issues, which may require a professional.

Ice Accumulation

You may notice that ice is accumulating around your air conditioning unit at times. Many situations can result in your air conditioner freezing up. Check to be sure you have good airflow through and around your air conditioning system. 

Dirty air filters, closed dampers, or blocked vents or ducts can restrict airflow. If all of these areas seem clear on visual inspection, you may want to call our trained team to conduct a more professional check of your system.

Strange Noises

By being aware of what your air conditioning system usually sounds like, you will notice more quickly if something seems amiss. If you hear strange noises, they can be cues something needs to be repaired or replaced. 

Squeaking sounds usually indicate problems with your air conditioner belt, which may need realignment or replacement. If you hear grinding sounds, you may need to inspect the motor’s bearings. Other noises may be easier to remedy, such as rattling can simply indicate a loose cover.

Odd Operation Patterns

In nearly all weather conditions, your air conditioner should kick on at a certain temperature, run for a while, and then shut off. If you find your air conditioner is constantly running or seems to cycle on and off too frequently, you need to address these issues. 

If your air conditioner never takes a break, you may have an issue with the fan, refrigerant level, or relay switches. This may require a professional visit from a member of our team to diagnose and repair these issues.

A system that constantly turns off and on may indicate a dirty or blocked condenser unit or evaporator. A thorough cleaning can help solve this issue.