Summer brings more than just sunshine and barbecues—it also places serious demands on your air conditioning system. Unfortunately, many homeowners face common AC troubles just when they need cooling the most.
The good news? Many of these issues are entirely preventable with a little foresight and consistent AC maintenance in Brentwood, TN. Here are the top air conditioner problems we see during the summer months—and how you can steer clear of them.
1. Clogged or Dirty Air Filters
The Problem:
One of the most frequent causes of air conditioner problems is a clogged air filter. When filters get coated with dust, pollen, and pet hair, airflow is restricted. This causes your system to work harder, leading to reduced efficiency, poor cooling, and in some cases, system failure.
How to Avoid It:
Replace or clean your air filter every month during peak summer use. It’s a small and simple step that goes a long way toward keeping your system running smoothly and extending its life.
2. Outdoor Unit Obstructions
The Problem:
The outdoor condenser unit needs space and clean airflow to expel heat properly. When it’s surrounded by grass clippings, weeds, leaves, or other debris—or worse, hidden behind shrubs—your AC can overheat, shut down, or operate inefficiently.
How to Avoid It:
Make it a point to regularly inspect the outdoor unit. Clear away any debris, trim plants to keep at least two feet of clearance, and gently hose off the unit to remove dust and dirt buildup.
3. Refrigerant Leaks
The Problem:
Low refrigerant levels usually point to a leak, which can severely affect cooling performance and damage your compressor. You might notice your home taking longer to cool or warm air coming from the vents.
How to Avoid It:
This issue requires professional detection and repair. While you can’t fix it yourself, you can avoid the headache by scheduling routine maintenance to catch and address problems before they become major repairs.
4. Thermostat Issues
The Problem:
An improperly calibrated, aging, or incorrectly programmed thermostat can throw off your entire system. It might cause short cycling, unnecessary wear on the system, or uneven temperatures throughout your home.
How to Avoid It:
Make sure your thermostat is properly installed and functioning. Consider upgrading to a programmable or smart thermostat, which can automatically adjust settings to improve comfort and efficiency.
5. Lack of Routine Maintenance
The Problem:
Skipping your seasonal tune-up leaves your system vulnerable to wear and tear, unnoticed small issues, and inefficiencies that snowball into costly repairs or full system failure.
How to Avoid It:
If you haven’t scheduled professional AC maintenance yet this year, don’t delay. A certified HVAC technician can inspect all components, clean and calibrate the system, and catch potential problems early—keeping your cooling dependable all summer long.
Stay Ahead of Summer AC Issues
The best way to keep cool through the hottest months is by preventing problems before they start. Change your filters monthly, keep your outdoor unit clear, and get your AC system checked out if you haven’t already this season.
If you’re overdue for maintenance or suspect an issue, reach out to our expert team today. We’re here to make sure your summer stays cool, comfortable, and worry-free.
Covenant Heating and Cooling is your trusted resource for reliable HVAC, electrical, and water heater services in Brentwood, TN. We are “Dedicated to the Promise of Serving You!” Contact us today.