8 Reasons Your Air Conditioner Isn’t Working

Summer is just around the corner, and as the temperature starts to rise, having a properly functioning air conditioner is crucial. A malfunctioning AC unit can lead to discomfort, high energy bills, and even health issues. If your air conditioner has stopped working or is not performing optimally, there could be several reasons behind it.

Lane Heating & Air, the leading HVAC service provider for AC Replacement in Lake City, FL. Our experts have compiled a list in this blog to inform you of the eight common reasons why your AC unit isn’t working as it should:

  • Clogged Air Filters

One of the primary reasons for an inefficient AC unit is clogged air filters. The air filters trap dirt, dust, and other particles that can affect indoor air quality. Over time, the filters can become clogged, restricting the airflow and making the unit work harder, leading to high energy consumption and reduced cooling capacity. A simple solution is to replace or clean the air filters regularly.

  • Dirty Evaporator Coils

The evaporator coils are responsible for absorbing heat from the air. Over time, dust and debris can accumulate on the coils, reducing their ability to absorb heat and lowering the unit’s efficiency. This can lead to a warmer indoor environment and higher energy bills. Regular cleaning of the evaporator coils by our professional technician can prevent this problem.

  • Leaking Refrigerant

Refrigerant is responsible for cooling the air in your AC unit. If your AC is low on refrigerant or leaks, it won’t cool the air effectively. This can also cause the unit to work harder than necessary, leading to higher energy bills and potentially damaging the compressor. Only a licensed HVAC professional should handle refrigerant leaks, as they can be hazardous to your health and the environment.

  • Faulty Thermostat

If your AC unit is not turning on or reaching the desired temperature, it could be a problem with your thermostat. A faulty thermostat may not be able to sense the temperature correctly or may not communicate with the AC unit correctly. This can cause the unit to cycle on and off frequently or not turn on at all. Schedule your AC installation in Lake City FL, if you need help selecting and installing a new smart thermostat in your home.

  • Electrical Issues

Electrical problems can prevent your AC unit from turning on or working correctly. If there’s a problem with the wiring or circuit breaker, it could cause the unit to stop working. Our professional technician can diagnose and repair the electrical issue.

  • Faulty Capacitor

The capacitor starts your AC unit’s compressor and fan motor. A faulty capacitor can cause the unit to make strange noises, stop working, or not turn on at all. Our technician can inspect and replace the capacitor if necessary.

  • Dirty Condenser Coils

The condenser coils of an AC are located on the outdoor unit and are responsible for removing heat from the refrigerant. If the coils are dirty, it can reduce their efficiency and reduce cooling capacity. This can cause the compressor to work harder than necessary, potentially leading to a breakdown. Regular cleaning of the condenser coils by a technician can prevent this problem.

  • Aging Equipment

Like all mechanical equipment, your AC unit has a lifespan. If your unit is over ten years old, consider installing a new AC instead of spending money on repairs. An aging unit can lead to frequent breakdowns, reduced efficiency, and increased energy bills. Our professional technician can help you choose an energy-efficient and adequately sized new unit for your home.

A malfunctioning AC unit can lead to discomfort, high energy bills, and even health issues. If you are experiencing problems with your AC unit, it’s essential to identify the root cause and schedule repairs or even schedule your AC Replacement in Lake City FL, with us. Regular maintenance and cleaning can prevent issues before they occur and prolong the life of your unit. If you’re experiencing any issues with your AC unit, don’t hesitate to contact the professional HVAC technicians at Lane Heating & Air.

Why Does Your Air Conditioner Smell Musty?

A musty smell from your air conditioner can be an unpleasant surprise and a sign of potential problems. If you’re experiencing this issue and reside in the area, it’s time to call the experts at Lane Heating & Air for air conditioner service in Lake City, FL.

At Lane Heating & Air, we understand the importance of having a clean and fresh-smelling air conditioning system. Our team of certified technicians have the adequate skill and knowledge to navigate and repair any issue with your air conditioner, including musty smells. In this blog, we’ll discuss why your air conditioner may be smelling musty and why you should choose our team for AC repair in Lake City, FL. Contact us, and our team will get back to you promptly.

What Causes a Musty Smell from Your Air Conditioner?

  • Mold and Mildew: This can significantly contribute to a musty smell in your air conditioner. A buildup of moisture in the unit provides an adequate environment for mold and mildew to grow, leading to an unpleasant musty odor. This can be prevented through regular maintenance and cleaning the unit to ensure proper ventilation and moisture removal. Contact us immediately if you need air conditioner service in Lake City, FL.
  • Dirty Air Filters: Dirty air filters can restrict air flow, leading to a musty smell in your air conditioner. When air filters are clogged with dirt, debris, and pollutants, they can’t effectively remove these particles from the air, leading to a buildup and musty odor. Regular replacement of air filters and routine cleaning can help prevent this issue.
  • Clogged Drain Pans: Clogged drain pans can also cause a musty smell in your air conditioner. When water accumulates in the pans, it provides a suitable environment for mold and mildew to grow, leading to an unpleasant musty odor. Regular cleaning and maintenance of the drain pans can help prevent this issue and ensure proper water drainage. We also provide AC repair in Lake City, FL, so you can get your AC unit free from musty odor.
  • Ductwork Issues: Leaks or cracks in your ductwork can also cause a musty smell in your air conditioner. Air leaks through these cracks or gaps can bring in moisture and create a humid environment in the ducts, leading to mold, mildew growth, and a musty odor. Regular inspections and maintenance of the ductwork can help prevent this issue and maintain a healthy and fresh air conditioning system.

The Importance Of Regular Maintenance:

Regular maintenance is vital for the longevity and efficiency of your air conditioner. You can avoid potential issues like musty smells and keep your air conditioning system running smoothly by scheduling regular maintenance appointments. During a maintenance appointment, our technicians will:

  • Clean the air filters
  • Inspect the drain pans for clogs
  • Check for mold and mildew growth
  • Inspect the ductwork for leaks and cracks
  • Check for refrigerant leaks

Call Us Today

A musty smell from your air conditioner can signal potential problems, but it can be fixed quickly and affordably with the proper AC repair in Lake City, FL. Call us today if you’re experiencing a musty smell or require air conditioner service. Our team of expert technicians are ready to assist you every step of the way. Remember us for AC repair and service in Lake City, FL, and surrounding areas.

How Does an Air Conditioner Work Step By Step?

While sitting comfortably in the cool air of an AC unit during summer, you may wonder how an AC blows the cool air. Where does the indoor heat go? How does an air conditioning unit work? The step by step process of an AC operation below will answer all your queries.

The step-by-step working process of an AC unit

The AC unit blows cool air and removes indoor heat and humidity. Understand how your AC works through the four simplified steps.

  • The Coil Takes The Heat 

The blower draws in the warm air from indoors into the air vents. Then this warm air reaches the cool evaporator coils, the coils absorb the heat and blow the cool air indoors. The absorbed heat raises the temperature of the refrigerant and converts it into a gaseous state.

  •  AC Compresses The Refrigerant 

The high-pressure refrigerant gas travels to the compressor. It pressurizes the refrigerant between two objects and raises the temperature. This high-pressure gas then reaches the condenser located in the outdoor unit.

  • Refrigerant Expels The Heat 

The outdoor air absorbs the heat from the vaporized warm refrigerant gas in the condenser. This process lowers down the temperature of the refrigerant. When the temperature decreases, the refrigerant changes back to the liquid state.

  • The Cycle Repeats 

This cold refrigerant in the liquid state travels back from the outdoor condenser to the indoor evaporator coil. It repeats the same cooling process until the temperature reaches the required cooling. Once the indoor temperature meets your expectation, the thermostat shuts off the cooling process until the space requires cooling again.

Things That Can Obstruct Air Conditioning Operation

The AC working process is simple, but a few maintenance mistakes can obstruct this process and result in AC repairs in Lake City, FL. The problems that can affect the AC operation are:

  • Unclean air filter and condenser coil 
  • Blockage in drain lines 
  • Broken compressor and ductwork
  • Loose metal parts and wires 
  • Insufficient refrigerant and oil 
  • Dead thermostat and motor 
  • Inaccurate thermostat settings
  • Inappropriate AC location

Step To Make AC Operation Smooth And Effective

You can prevent the listed issues if you follow some preventive maintenance tips.

  • Change or wash the air filter every 2-3 months
  • Flush the drain line with chlorine bleach when it gets dirty
  • Schedule spring and fall tune-up for AC maintenance
  • Install a programmable thermostat and set the right temperature
  • Put curtains on windows and place draft stoppers on doors
  • Schedule AC duct cleaning service every 3-5 years

Air Conditioner Service in Lake City, FL

An AC unit maintained with annual air conditioner service in Lake City, FL, provides great comfort for 10 to 15 or even 20 years. Out of all the AC maintenance tips, scheduling an annual tune-up and replacing air filters are the most essential and beneficial.

Trust Lane Heating & Air, LLC provides 24/7 HVAC maintenance and AC repair in Lake City, FL. Our licensed, pre-screened and insured technicians will improve your AC performance promptly by scheduling a service with us.