Tips & Resources

The 6 Most Common Air Conditioning Problems in Denver

Now, before the summer heat hits, is a good time to schedule a maintenance appointment and make sure your cooling system is ready for the season. There are many reasons your Denver home’s central air conditioner may need to be looked at by a certified contractor. Knowing the most common air conditioner problems can help you diagnose them, or even better, avoid them. Common problems are faulty wiring, low refrigerant, non-functioning outside fan, a frozen coil and air flow issues.

1. Faulty wiring.

Bad wiring can trip the circuit breaker or keep the unit from getting power. Wiring that is not up to code, or is damaged or poorly installed can not only affect your air conditioner’s performance, it is also a serious safety/fire hazard.

2. Low refrigerant.

Refrigerant is the chemical in your air conditioning system that cools the air. Low refrigerant most often means there is a leak, although it could indicate other problems. Any hint of a leak should be checked by a professional and addressed immediately.

3. Outside fan is not working.

The outside fan moves the heat out of your home. If the fan is not working properly, the heat transfer won’t be successful and could result in the compressor overheating and tripping the safety overload. Even more serious, a fan problem could cause internal damage to the compressor.

4. Outside unit is not working.

If the entire outside unit is not working, the problem could be a lack of power, improper installation or a faulty thermostat.

5. Frozen coil.

This is most commonly a problem with air flow and the culprit is often a dirty air filter. Buildup on the coils or debris blocking the air flow to the system can also cause this. Frost on the inside coil could indicate low refrigerant.

6. Poor air flow.

Change the air filter regularly, every 30-90 days. Keep the coils free of dirt and make sure to maintain a clear area around the outdoor unit that is free from leaves, branches and other debris. Annual maintenance by a professional HVAC technician will keep your system clean and functioning properly.

Preventive maintenance at the start of the season is the best way to avoid serious problems and expensive repairs. Problems like the ones outlined here are easily discovered with a professional inspection and can often be addressed while they are still minor. Look for a NATE-certified technician to promptly diagnose and make any necessary repairs.

The NATE-certified technicians at Rheem Pro Partners can handle all your air conditioning needs. Contact us today in Colorado and Wyoming.