Troubleshooting Common Summer HVAC Problems
July 7th, 2025
by Dave Rowe
Introduction
The summer heat puts your air conditioning system to the test, and sometimes issues arise when you need your system the most. Before calling for professional help, there are a few common HVAC problems you can troubleshoot yourself. Here’s a guide to solving some of the most frequent summer air conditioning issues.
1. Air Conditioner Won’t Turn On
If your AC isn’t starting, it could be due to something simple like a tripped breaker or a thermostat issue.
- Tip: Check your thermostat settings to ensure it’s set to cooling mode and the temperature is below the current room temperature.
- Tip: Inspect your circuit breaker to see if the AC breaker has tripped. Reset it if necessary.
2. Insufficient Cooling
If your AC is running but not cooling your home effectively, it could be due to dirty filters, blocked vents, or low refrigerant levels.
- Tip: Replace or clean your air filter to improve airflow and cooling performance.
- Tip: Check that all vents and registers are open and not obstructed by furniture or curtains.
3. Uneven Cooling
Hot spots or uneven cooling in your home can be frustrating. This issue is often caused by improper airflow or poor insulation.
- Tip: Use ceiling fans to circulate air and maintain a consistent temperature throughout your home.
- Tip: Inspect your home’s insulation and seal any gaps or leaks around windows and doors.
4. High Energy Bills
If your energy bills are unusually high, your AC might be working harder than necessary due to inefficiency.
- Tip: Clean the outdoor condenser unit to remove dirt, leaves, and debris that may be restricting airflow.
- Tip: Schedule professional maintenance to optimize your system’s efficiency.
5. Strange Noises
Unusual sounds like banging, clicking, or buzzing from your AC can indicate loose parts, debris, or motor issues.
- Tip: Turn off your system and inspect for debris around the outdoor unit. Call a professional if the noise persists.
6. Water Leaks or Moisture Around the Unit
Water pooling around your indoor unit could be a sign of a clogged drain line or frozen evaporator coil.
- Tip: Check the drain line for blockages and clear them using a wet/dry vacuum if accessible.
- Tip: If the coil is frozen, turn the system from "Cool" to "Off", put the fan to "On" and allow the system to thaw before running it again.
Conclusion
Many common summer HVAC problems can be resolved with a little troubleshooting and maintenance. However, if your system continues to have issues, it’s important to call a professional to avoid further damage. Regular maintenance is the key to preventing most problems and keeping your home cool and comfortable all season long.
Contact Us!
Having trouble with your air conditioner? Contact Setpoint Refrigeration LLC today for expert repairs and maintenance to keep your system running smoothly all summer long.
- Phone: (860) 375-9058
- Email: service@setpointhvacr.com
- Website: setpointhvacr.com