10 of the Most Common Air Conditioner Problems in 2024

Updated December 2022

Hot summer days can be fun and exciting but also uncomfortable when you don’t have a working air conditioner. Don’t leave you and your family stuck in the scorching heat this holiday.

Learn about the most common problems with AC units this year, so you can know what to expect and what to tell your contractor and HVAC home insurance provider.

Here are the 10 of the most common air conditioner problems in 2024

1. Filter Problems

One of the most common AC unit problems is a dirty filter. Follow the manufacturer’s suggestions when changing the air filter regularly. Dirty filters reduce airflow and can cause parts of the AC to freeze.

2. Fan-Related Issues

Fans blow indoor air over the evaporator to cool it. Another fan blows through the outdoor condenser to expel heat outside. Fans enable the movement of air through the system, and they are an integral part of the AC. A faulty motor, degraded lubricant, wear and tear damage, and dirt can all lead to reduced airflow, decreased efficiency, and even compressor failure.

3. Clogged Drains

When the AC unit removes moisture from the air, the water goes down a drain. If this component is clogged, water may back up into the system, causing leaks in walls and ceilings and even leading to mold growth.

4. Coils Require Replacement

Evaporator coils push cool air into the house from the inside, while condenser coils operate outside with the compressor. Both can become corroded or dirty. Clean outside coils with a hose every so often. Don’t forget to call HVAC maintenance every few years as well and consider picking up a home warranty for your air conditioner.

5. Insufficient Refrigerant

Refrigerant removes heat and humidity from the air. Leaks in the refrigerant delivery system decrease the efficiency of the cooler, and the temperature may fluctuate as a result. Fixing this issue often requires an HVAC technician to repair the leaks. This process can be time-consuming and expensive, depending on where the leak is.

6. Malfunctioning Compressor

A compressor pushes refrigerant through the system so that it can cool the air. This compressor may wear out with constant use, and too much or too little refrigerant can damage the compressor.

7. Worn-Out Contactor

The contactor is an electrical connection located on the compressor, blower, and condenser fan motor. When this component is damaged, you may find it difficult to start up your AC system.

8. Broken Thermostat

Sometimes, the problem isn’t the AC but rather the control panel. A poorly calibrated thermostat will cause erratic AC behavior. Reconfigure the thermostat settings or have it repaired if necessary.

9. Breakers, Fuses, and Capacitors

Breakers and fuses protect the AC from overheating. If the motor to an AC dies, the first thing a contractor from your air conditioner insurance company checks is the breaker. Capacitors activate motors and provide electricity to keep them running.

10. Damaged Ducts

Ducts carry cool air through the walls and around your house. Leaky ducts can occur from rodents or construction accidents, wasting the cold air and driving up your energy bills as your AC works harder.

The Importance of Home Warranty For Your Air Conditioner

There are many factors that contribute to a broken AC unit, and repairs can be costly. Instead of struggling with complex AC components yourself, have the professionals handle regular AC maintenance and repairs when common air conditioner problems occur.

Fortunately, you don’t have to worry about AC malfunctions when you have an experienced contractor, and cost won’t be an issue either if you have warranty coverage. Get home air conditioner warranty coverage today with the coverage you need at a price you’ll like from Liberty Home Guard.