Common AC Problems: How to Spot and Fix Them

Common AC Problems: How to Spot and Fix Them

In the summertime, air conditioning in California is a part of daily life, with most homeowners running their systems around the clock. And like with any piece of machinery, things can go wrong, leaving people hot and frustrated in the height of the summer heat.

If your AC system starts malfunctioning, what can you do?

Understanding common AC system problems early can save you from skyrocketing energy bills, uncomfortable nights, and expensive repairs.

Quick Navigation:

• Why Understanding AC System Problems Matters
• Most Common AC System Problems Homeowners Face
• Simple Troubleshooting Tips You Can Try at Home
• When to Call a Professional HVAC Technician
• Preventing Common AC Problems
• Schedule AC System Service With Burgeson’s

WHY UNDERSTANDING AC SYSTEM PROBLEMS MATTERS

Knowing how to recognize common home AC system problems can save you time, money, and frustration.

1. Poor AC system performance increases energy bills and reduces comfort.
2. Minor issues can turn into major repairs if ignored.
3. Early detection helps avoid emergency breakdowns or full system replacement.

The sooner you spot a problem, the easier—and cheaper—it usually is to fix.

MOST COMMON AC SYSTEM PROBLEMS HOMEOWNERS FACE

Here are the common AC problems and solutions we see most often in the Inland Empire.

AC SYSTEM NOT COOLING PROPERLY OR BLOWING WARM AIR

Causes: dirty filters, low refrigerant, frozen evaporator coil, or failing compressor.
Signs: uneven cooling, warm air from vents, longer run times.

This is one of the top common AC problems; it wastes energy and strains your system.

AC SYSTEM NOT TURNING ON

Causes: tripped breakers, blown fuses, thermostat issues, or capacitor failure.
Signs: no airflow, unresponsive thermostat, or intermittent startup.

Power issues or faulty components often trigger this frustrating common AC problem.

WEAK OR INCONSISTENT AIRFLOW

Causes: blocked vents, duct leaks, or failing blower motor.
Signs: rooms not cooling evenly, low airflow at registers.

Clogged filters or closed vents exacerbate this widespread common home AC problem.

AC SYSTEM RUNNING CONSTANTLY OR SHORT CYCLING

Causes: thermostat issues, low refrigerant, or incorrectly sized unit.
Signs: higher energy bills, compressor working overtime, frequent on and off cycles.

This inefficiency drives up costs, a classic among common AC problems.

FROZEN AC SYSTEM COILS

Causes: restricted airflow, low refrigerant, dirty coils.
Signs: ice buildup on indoor or outdoor coils, weak cooling.

Frozen coils halt performance and risk damage if ignored.

STRANGE NOISES

Causes: loose parts, fan motor problems, or failing compressor.
Signs: grinding, rattling, or buzzing sounds.

Unusual noises often signal wear that could lead to breakdowns.

FOUL OR UNUSUAL ODORS

Causes: mold or mildew in ducts, clogged drain lines, electrical issues, or refrigerant leaks.
Impact: poor indoor air quality, potential health hazards.

Musty smells often point to moisture issues needing prompt attention.

DRAINAGE OR WATER LEAKS

Causes: clogged condensate line, damaged drain pan, or improper installation.
Impact: water damage, mold growth, humidity issues.

Leaks around your indoor unit are a frequent, common problem during bouts of high humidity.

SENSOR OR CONTROL BOARD MALFUNCTIONS

Causes: worn sensors, faulty control boards.
Signs: the AC system cycles irregularly or becomes unresponsive.

Tech glitches disrupt reliable cooling.

DUCT PROBLEMS

Causes: damaged, disconnected or poorly insulated ductwork.
Signs: uneven cooling, increased energy bills.

Leaky ducts waste cooled air and inflate costs quietly.

SIMPLE TROUBLESHOOTING TIPS YOU CAN TRY AT HOME

Before calling for service, try these basic steps:

1. Check thermostat settings and replace batteries
2. Replace or clean air filters
3. Ensure vents and outdoor unit are free of obstructions
4. Turn the system off and allow frozen coils to thaw

If problems persist, professional service is recommended.

WHEN TO CALL A PROFESSIONAL HVAC TECHNICIAN

You should contact an HVAC technician if:

Professional diagnosis and repair prevents further damage and restores efficiency.

PREVENTING COMMON AC SYSTEM PROBLEMS

Preventive care is the best way to avoid breakdowns.

Routine maintenance dramatically reduces the risk of common AC problems.

SCHEDULE AC SYSTEM SERVICE WITH BURGESON’S

No one wants to lose out on cool air in the sweltering heat of California’s summer, and a failing AC system can cause more problems than just a lack of cool air. It’s important to have regular maintenance performed on your system and to keep an eye out for any abnormalities.

The expert Service and Maintenance Technicians at Burgeson's can help you properly maintain your HVAC system to ensure it is running as efficiently as possible. As trusted HVAC experts in Redlands and the Inland Empire, we offer fast, reliable repairs for all common AC problems.

If you're ready to request a maintenance appointment, or if you'd like to speak to a Comfort Advisor about installing a new, high-efficiency system, book an AC repair online or give us a call at (909) 792-2222. We'd be happy to help you find the solution that meets your needs.