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An efficiently running air conditioner is essential for maintaining comfort in your home, especially during the hot summer months. When your AC stops working, it can quickly become a frustrating situation. Understanding common issues and their solutions can help you address problems more effectively. Here are four common AC issues and their solutions.

1. AC Not Turning On

One of the most common issues homeowners face is when the air conditioner fails to turn on. This problem can have several causes:

Possible Causes:

  • Thermostat Issues: Ensure the thermostat is set to “cool” and the temperature is set lower than the current room temperature. Sometimes, the thermostat might need new batteries or a reset.
  • Tripped Circuit Breaker: Check your electrical panel for a tripped breaker. If the AC breaker has tripped, reset it. If it continues to trip, there may be a more significant electrical issue.
  • Power Supply Problems: Ensure the unit is properly plugged in and that there are no loose connections.

Solution:

Start by checking the thermostat settings and replacing the batteries if needed. If the issue persists, inspect the circuit breaker and reset it if necessary. For persistent power supply problems, it’s best to contact air conditioning repair companies in Fairfax for a professional diagnosis.

2. Insufficient Cooling

If your air conditioner is running but not cooling your home effectively, it could be due to several factors:

Possible Causes:

  • Dirty Air Filters: Clogged filters can restrict airflow and reduce the cooling efficiency of your AC.
  • Blocked Vents: Ensure that vents and registers are not blocked by furniture or other objects, allowing for proper airflow.
  • Low Refrigerant Levels: Low refrigerant levels can prevent your AC from cooling effectively.

Solution:

Regularly check and replace air filters to ensure optimal airflow. Clear any obstructions from vents and registers. If the problem persists, low refrigerant might be the issue. This requires professional attention from a residential air conditioning repair service in Fairfax, like AVS Heating and Air Conditioning.

3. AC Constantly Running

An air conditioner that runs continuously without shutting off can lead to higher energy bills and potential system damage:

Possible Causes:

  • Incorrect Thermostat Settings: The thermostat might be set to a very low temperature or on a continuous fan setting.
  • Dirty Evaporator Coils: Dirty coils can cause the system to overwork, trying to reach the set temperature.
  • Refrigerant Leak: A leak can cause the system to run longer to maintain the desired temperature.

Solution:

Check the thermostat settings and adjust if necessary. Clean or replace the air filters and ensure the evaporator coils are clean. If these steps don’t resolve the issue, there might be a refrigerant leak, which requires professional repair from a central air conditioning repair service in Fairfax.

4. Strange Noises from the AC Unit

Unusual noises coming from your air conditioning unit can be alarming and often indicate underlying problems:

Possible Causes:

  • Loose Parts: Rattling or banging noises can indicate loose parts within the unit.
  • Motor Issues: Squealing or grinding noises might indicate motor problems.
  • Debris in the Unit: Debris such as leaves or branches can get stuck in the outdoor unit, causing noise.

Solution:

Turn off the AC and inspect the unit for any loose parts or debris. If you’re unable to identify the issue, it’s best to call a professional for a thorough inspection. AVS Heating and Air Conditioning, a leading residential air conditioning repair service in Fairfax, can diagnose and fix any noise-related issues.

When to Call a Professional

While some AC issues can be resolved with basic troubleshooting, others require the expertise of a professional. For comprehensive central air conditioning repair in Fairfax, trust AVS Heating and Air Conditioning. Their experienced technicians are equipped to handle all types of AC problems, ensuring your system runs efficiently. Contact them today at (703) 457-9028 for reliable and prompt service.

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