Now we are in the midst of summer, ensuring your air conditioner or heat pump is in top shape becomes essential for a comfortable home. The last thing you want is for your cooling system to fail during a sweltering New Zealand heatwave and by recognising early warning signs, you can address issues before they get worse. Here are five common signs your air conditioner may need repairs and how to resolve them.
1. Your air conditioner gives insufficient cooling
What to Look For:
Your air conditioner runs, but the air coming out still feels warm or unevenly cooled.
Why It Happens:
The Mode button is set to heating (sun icon) instead of cooling (snowflake icon).
A dirty or clogged air filter is restricting airflow.
The refrigerant gas level is too low .
Defective parts such as thermistor, compressor or evaporator coil issues.
What to Do About It:
Check and clean or replace the air filter: If the filter is clogged, clean it to restore airflow. Regularly vacuuming your filter(s) every 1-3 months is a simple, but effective maintenance step.
Inspect for refrigerant leaks: Low refrigerant levels often indicate a leak. Look for damp marks around the flare nuts joining the pipework to the outdoor unit. Call a professional HVAC technician with an “approved gas filler” license to locate and repair the leak, pressure test, then recharge the system to the correct pressure with refrigerant gas.
Schedule a professional inspection: If the problem persists, a technician can diagnose deeper issues, such as a failing compressor or damaged coils, and recommend necessary repairs.
2. There are strange noises coming from your air conditioner
What to Look For: Unusual sounds like banging, buzzing, hissing, or squealing when the system is running.
Why It Happens:
Loose, worn or broken parts inside the system.
A refrigerant leak (hissing sound).
A failing motor or blower fan (usually worn bearings).
What to Do About It:
Turn off the system immediately: Running the system while it’s making strange noises can cause further damage.
Inspect external components: Look for visible debris or loose screws that could be caught in the barrel fan. Remove any loose items..
Call a professional: Unless something very obvious and an easy fix presents itself, the best course of action is to call an experienced HVAC repair technician. Depending upon how senior, qualified and experienced the Technician is, the callout cost is typically around $150 - $250. Technicians can often make simple repairs on the spot, however if parts are broken and need replacing, a second visit will be required if the repair parts are not in stock..
3. Your air conditioner produces a weak airflow
What to Look For: The air coming from your vents feels weak, even when the fan speed is set to maximum.
Why It Happens:
Blocked filters, vents or ducts.
A dirty blower (barrel) fan.
If a ducted, incorrect static pressure settings or plenum or ductwork leaks.
What to Do About It:
Check your filters, vents and ducts: Ensure nothing is blocking the airflow either into the indoor unit or out of it. furniture, curtains, or debris do not obstruct them.
Clean the barrel / blower fan: Dust buildup on the fan can impede airflow. If you’re comfortable doing so, you can clean it yourself after turning off the system. Otherwise, call a professional Tip: use a vacuum cleaner to remove the excess dust, then a damp cloth. Vigorously wiping with a dry cloth will send dust flying everywhere
Seal duct leaks: Leaks in the ductwork can reduce airflow and efficiency. A technician can inspect and seal any leaks to restore optimal performance.
4. You smell unpleasant odours coming out from your air conditioner
What to Look For: Foul smells, such as a musty or burning odour, when the air conditioner is running.
Why It Happens:
Mould, bacteria or mildew growth inside the system’s indoor unit.
Electrical issues or overheating components.
A dirty air filter causing odour to circulate.
What to Do About It:
Replace the air filter: This is often the simplest fix for bad smells.
Clean the evaporator coils: Mold and mildew thrive in damp areas like coils. Schedule a professional cleaning to remove buildup.
Address electrical concerns: If you notice a burning smell, turn off the system and call an HVAC technician immediately to inspect electrical components.
5. Your air conditioner frequently cycles on and off
What to Look For: Your air conditioner repeatedly turns on and off without completing a full cooling cycle.
Why It Happens:
A thermostat issue could be dirty condenser coils causing the system to overheat.
An oversized air conditioner for your home’s needs.
What to Do About It:
Check the thermostat: Ensure it’s set correctly and placed away from heat sources like sunlight or appliances.
Clean the outdoor condenser unit: Remove debris and clean the coils to improve efficiency.
Consult a professional: If the issue persists, a technician can evaluate your system and make recommendations, including resizing the unit if necessary.
Additional Tips for Preventing Repairs
Schedule annual maintenance: Regular tune-ups by a qualified technician can catch small issues before they turn into costly repairs.
Keep the outdoor unit clear: Trim plants and remove debris to ensure proper airflow around the unit.
Monitor energy bills: A sudden spike in energy costs could indicate an issue with your system’s efficiency.
Does Your Air Conditioner Need Repair?
Don’t let a faulty air conditioner disrupt your summer comfort. By watching for these five warning signs and addressing issues promptly, you can ensure your cooling system runs smoothly when you need it most. From weak airflow to strange noises, timely repairs can save you from unexpected breakdowns and costly parts replacements.
If you’ve noticed any of these signs, don’t wait—reach out to a professional HVAC technician today. Our experienced team is here to help you keep your home cool and comfortable all summer long. Contact us now to schedule an inspection or repair service!