8 Most Common AC Problems Oklahomans Face 

The Air Conditioner is the unsung hero of our homes. Oklahoma City would be practically unbearable without the cool air from our AC units during the summer. In this article, we’ll explore the 8 most common AC problems and their potential solutions.

1. AC Not Cold Enough

Typically, if your AC doesn’t seem cold enough, there are four diagnostic areas we start by looking at.  

• First, we ensure that your filters are clean. Clogged filters can reduce air flow and cause AC freezing, resulting in no air movement.
• Second, we check your refrigerant pressures. High or low refrigerant pressures can cause your system to run inefficiently and be unable to cool your home. 
• Third, we verify that your thermostat is reading the proper temperature inside the space. Sometimes thermostats calibration gets off causing it to read either too high or too low of temperature.  
• Fourth, we make sure that your compressor isn’t defective. If a compressor loses its valves, bearings, or ability to hold pressure, it will be unable to cool your home.  

2. AC Leaking Water

AC water leaks are a common issue in Oklahoma due to extended AC run times and high allergen levels, resulting in increased dust and debris indoors. There are 2 potential causes for a water leak in your AC system:  

• A clogged or damaged condensate drainpipe can cause water to back up into the evaporator coil, resulting in leaks. Bonus tip: Regular maintenance helps prevent clogs, which are a common AC issue during the summer.
• A damaged condensate pump attached to the condensate drain pushes water out of the house. These pumps typically last around 5 years, so consider replacing them at that point.

3. Noisy AC Condenser

A squealing AC condenser often signals other issues, with the two most common being:

• A loose fan blade can often be re-seated onto the motor shaft. However, if the blade housing is stripped, replacement is necessary. If the motor bearings have gone out, or are actively failing, we will need to replace the motor.  
• Failing compressor valves: If the compressor valves are failing our recommendation would be to replace the system. Compressors, which are meant to last the system’s lifetime, signal trouble when they start failing. This often indicates that your system is nearing the end of its useful life and could become a financial burden.  

4. Frozen AC

If you notice ice forming on your condenser or the copper pipes leading to your evaporator coil, turn off your system and allow it to thaw. This will enable a professional to accurately diagnose the cause. A frozen AC typically has three main causes:

• Dirty indoor filters. 
• A restriction or damage to your refrigerant lines. 
• A leak in the refrigerant system / low on refrigerant. 

5. AC Not Blowing Air

When and if your AC stops blowing air altogether, there are two main problems that we look for: 

• Indoor Blower Motor Failure: When the air stops moving in your home, the first place we’ll check is the indoor blower motor. If the motor has failed, we will need to replace the motor to get your home cooling again.  
• Frozen Evaporator Coil: If your evaporator coil has turned into a block of ice, air will be unable to move throughout the duct system. We will need to revert to the diagnostic measures as said above in #4.  

6. AC Turns On / Off on Its Own

Reliability in your home’s most expensive appliance is paramount. If your AC cycles on and off randomly, there are a few potential issues to consider.

• The issue could be caused by a faulty thermostat. This would be a simple fix, rectified by replacing your thermostat. 
• A dirty condenser coil can cause the compressor to shut down due to excessive heat.
• Dirty filters or low refrigerant levels in the system can cause the condenser to shut down due to low pressure.

7. Unable To Turn AC On

If your AC won’t turn on, the issue could range from a faulty thermostat to more complex problems like damaged wiring, failed motors, or low/high-pressure lockouts. In such cases, it’s best to have your preferred HVAC team diagnose the issue.

8. AC Tripping

AC units, with their many moving parts, can have multiple causes for what might seem like the same problem. The most common AC tripping issues include low/high refrigerant pressure lockouts, faulty wiring, and motor/compressor shorts to ground. 

Conclusion

In the sweltering Oklahoma summer, our air conditioners become lifelines, offering much-needed relief from the heat. However, like any mechanical system, AC units are prone to wear and tear. Understanding their most common problems is crucial for ensuring continued comfort.

From inadequate cooling to water leaks, noisy condensers, and frozen coils, the list of potential AC issues can be daunting. Familiarize yourself with common AC problems and solutions to proactively address issues and maintain home comfort.

Regular maintenance, including filter changes, coil cleaning, and professional tune-ups, can prevent AC issues and extend system lifespan. Additionally, knowing when to call in a professional HVAC technician can save you time, money, and frustration overall. 

For professional HVAC services, repairs, and maintenance in the Oklahoma City Metro area, trust Yarbrough & Sons Heating Cooling and Plumbing. Our experienced technicians ensure your AC runs smoothly, keeping your home cool and comfortable, regardless of the weather outside.

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About Yarbrough & Sons Heating, Cooling & Plumbing: Yarbrough & Sons has been serving Oklahoma City since 1988, providing top-notch home comfort solutions. With over 450 years of combined experience, our family-owned business is dedicated to quality, comfort, and caring for our community. Trust us for all your HVAC needs.