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TABLE OF CONTENTS



Table of Contents

1. Air Conditioner Not Cooling?: Common Causes and Solutions

2. AC Leaking Water?: Common Causes and Solutions

3. AC Function Issues: Common Causes and Solutions

4. AC Fan Issues: Common Causes and Solutions

Sears Home Services Has Your AC Repair Solution

 1. Resource Center
 2. Repair


AC NOT WORKING? HERE ARE 4 COMMON ISSUES & SOLUTIONS

8 min readUpdated Okt. 18, 2024Kimberly HillegassHVAC


As temperatures rise, a malfunctioning central AC can quickly turn your home
into an uncomfortable environment. Sears Home Services technicians encounter
common AC issues, such as inadequate cooling or leaks, during summer service
calls. In this guide, learn about these common problems and discover expert
solutions to keep your air conditioner running smoothly throughout the season.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

 * When an AC isn’t cooling, first check for clogged air filters or blocked
   vents, which can easily be fixed through DIY efforts.
 * Inside water leaks might indicate a clogged condensate drain line, while
   outside leaks could be due to low refrigerant, blockages, or broken
   components.
 * Problems like constant running, failure to turn on, or fan malfunctions may
   stem from issues with filters, thermostats, or electrical components,
   requiring professional diagnosis and repair.

When summer comes along, you need your central AC unit to run without a hitch,
and even the best air conditioners can run into issues with time. Is your AC not
working? Don’t worry. The heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC)
experts at Sears Home Services can troubleshoot your air conditioner to get it
running smoothly again. Use this air conditioning (AC) troubleshooting list to
help you identify some common air conditioner problems like AC not cooling, and
identify solutions.


1. AIR CONDITIONER NOT COOLING?: COMMON CAUSES AND SOLUTIONS


AIR CONDITIONER WON’T BLOW COLD AIR

If your AC system turns on but doesn’t blow out cold air, ensure all the vents
are open and the thermostat is set properly. If these aren’t the problem, check
the air filter. If it’s clogged with dirt or other debris, you won’t get any air
flow. Since the clog may cause the evaporator coils to freeze, the ice and frost
will clog the air flow even more. If that’s the problem, clean the filter with a
soft brush, mild soap, and water. Clean and change your filter often to avoid
that problem in the future. You may also have a problem with the fan or fan
motor. If the fan turns easily, you may have a problem getting electrical power
to the motor or a leak in the refrigerant line. In these cases, you’ll probably
require a qualified HVAC technician to come inspect the unit.


AIR CONDITIONER NOT COOLING ENOUGH

Check your vents to make sure all of them are open. If even one of them is
closed, it can make it more difficult to cool your entire home, since the warm
air from the room with the closed vent will mix with the cooled air from the
others. Otherwise, you may have another problem, such as a leak in your
refrigerant line. If your system is old or was installed improperly, it may be
wearing out or is the wrong size for your home. Systems that are too large for
your home will cycle on and off too quickly, reducing their efficiency. A system
that’s too small for your home will work harder to cool your home, leading to
premature breakdown.


2. AC LEAKING WATER?: COMMON CAUSES AND SOLUTIONS


AIR CONDITIONER LEAKING WATER INSIDE

To avoid costly water damage, turn your air conditioner off if it leaks water
inside your home. Your condensate drain line might be clogged up, causing water
to back up into your home. Many air conditioners have a float switch that trips
and shuts off the air conditioner when water back up in the drain line. The
video below has tips on clearing a clogged drain line and keeping it clear. If
the drain line isn’t clogged, it’s possible the drain pan is rusted or the
condensate pump failed. A service technician can repair or replace the damaged
parts.




AIR CONDITIONER LEAKING WATER OUTSIDE

On hot or humid days, you might see a little puddle of water under your
condenser unit. In hot, humid weather, that’s normal, as long as it only forms
while the unit is working. In cool weather—usually, 60 degrees or less—an air
conditioner can freeze up, causing the unit to leak water when it melts which is
also normal. If it’s leaking in other circumstances, try cleaning or replacing
your air filters. If that doesn’t fix the problem, schedule a service call. You
may need more refrigerant, have a blockage in your drain pipe, or have a broken
condensate pan.


AIR CONDITIONER LEAKING WATER WHEN TURNED OFF

If your system is low on refrigerant or has a dirty filter, the system may
freeze up when it’s working. After you turn it off, the ice melts, causing it to
leak water. Don’t risk water damage from your air conditioner leaking water on
the floor or ceiling. If cleaning your filter doesn’t help, don’t turn your AC
system on again until you have identified and fixed the problem. As with outside
leaks, you may have a blockage or a broken condensate pan.


3. AC FUNCTION ISSUES: COMMON CAUSES AND SOLUTIONS


AIR CONDITIONER WON’T STOP RUNNING

If your AC stays on longer than it should, you may have a dirty filter. Clean or
replace your filter to see if that remedies the situation. If your system is
older or improperly sized, it also can cause the system to work too hard, cycle
too often, and have difficulty shutting off. Other problems that may cause your
AC to run constantly include:

 * A stuck fan relay
 * A short in the thermostat cable
 * A thermostat that’s gone bad


CENTRAL AIR CONDITIONER IS NOT WORKING

Finding out why your air conditioner is not working can be simple in some
situations. Check these issues when the unit won't kick on:

 * Check the thermostat and adjust the settings if it isn't set to Cool and an
   appropriate temperature setting to call for cooling.
 * Examine the house circuit breakers for the AC unit and reset any tripped
   breakers.
 * Check the air filter and replace the filter if it's dirty.
 * Look for dirt clogging the condenser fins on the outside unit and clean the
   fins if necessary.
 * Check for a clogged condensate drain line and clear the clog if condensate
   water isn't draining from the unit.

If these tips don't work, call a technician as your HVAC system may need to be
repaired or replaced.


AC WINDOW UNIT WON’T KICK ON

Similarly, with a window unit, you first should check the temperature setting on
the unit and make sure that electrical current is flowing into the system.
Again, if neither of those troubleshooting efforts locates the problem, call for
professional help for AC window unit repair .


4. AC FAN ISSUES: COMMON CAUSES AND SOLUTIONS


AIR CONDITIONER FAN NOT WORKING INSIDE

If your AC indoor fan isn’t working, first check to make sure a breaker hasn’t
been tripped. If all is OK, check your air filter. If it’s blocked, then you may
be able to fix it yourself. If there’s ice on the evaporator coil and
refrigerant lines, allow the ice to melt, then check again to see if the fan is
working. If it isn’t working, that might have caused your coil to freeze. A
frozen coil requires a service call, because your technician may need to replace
the contacts inside the fan relay, the fan belt, or the even the motor itself.


AIR CONDITIONER FAN NOT WORKING OUTSIDE

When your AC isn’t cooling properly, you may want to check your outdoor unit. If
the outdoor fan isn’t spinning, first check the breaker or fuse box. If a reset
doesn’t correct the problem, there may be a couple of problems at work here.

 * Start capacitor not working: If your compressor is still working, your fan’s
   motor or start capacitor may not be working. You can try to troubleshoot it
   by pushing the fan with a wooden stick. Don’t do it by hand, since if the fan
   does start, it could cut your fingers. If it still doesn’t start to spin, you
   need to call your local technician. Turn your unit off until she or he comes.
   If you don’t, you risk burning out your compressor—a major repair.
 * Outdoor fan motor stuck: Dirt or rust may have caused the fan to get stuck.
   If the unit requires more extensive repairs, you may need to repair or
   replace the outdoor fan motor.

Prevent outdoor fan system issues and keep your home cool by scheduling a Spring
Cooling System Tune Up by Sears every year.


SEARS HOME SERVICES HAS YOUR AC REPAIR SOLUTION

Because going without heat or air conditioning is uncomfortable and can be
dangerous, you can call day or night to schedule an appointment, and we offer
same-day or next-day service. Whether you're experiencing Rheem air conditioner
problems or problems with another brand, we can help. Here’s what sets Sears
HVAC repair services apart:

 * We offer same-day and next-day HVAC repair service.
 * You can call 24/7 to make an appointment.
 * We give free technical advice to help troubleshoot your HVAC problem over the
   phone if possible, saving you the time and money for a service visit.
 * Your satisfaction is guaranteed.
 * We offer financing options for HVAC repair services.
 * We give you a complete, written estimate before we begin any work.

Sears HVAC experts can fix any brand of whole-house air conditioning or heating
system, no matter where you bought it. Whether your system is a Kenmore,
Carrier, or any other brand, Sears has you covered.

Continue to maintain the optimal temperature for your home by keeping your AC
system professionally maintained. Have your local Sears air conditioning
professional stop by on a yearly basis for a maintenance checkup. With regular
service, your system will last longer, work more efficiently, and save you money
on your energy bills in the long run.

Wondering if it might be time to replace your air conditioner? You can’t go
wrong with the air conditioning experts here at Sears Home Services. We’re here
for your home.


SCHEDULE YOUR HVAC REPAIR NOW!

Rely on our skilled technicians to diagnose and repair your HVAC equipment,
ensuring optimal comfort in your home.

Call (551) 239-1643 or schedule online now.
Text (240) 616-1772 to schedule now.
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GasDishwasherOvenRiding MowerRangeFreezerCentral Air ConditionerAir Conditioner
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MachineFurnaceGarage Door OpenerGarbage DisposalGas GrillHeat PumpIce Maker
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HVAC ISSUES? LET US FIX IT FOR YOU!

Call (551) 239-1643
Text (240) 616-1772
Select ApplianceRefrigeratorWasherDryer - ElectricDryer -
GasDishwasherOvenRiding MowerRangeFreezerCentral Air ConditionerAir Conditioner
- Window UnitBoilerCooktopDouble OvenElliptical MachineFitness Weight
MachineFurnaceGarage Door OpenerGarbage DisposalGas GrillHeat PumpIce Maker
FreestandingMicrowaveRange HoodSnowblowerStacked Laundry UnitStationary
BikeStepperTrash CompactorTreadmillWasher Dryer ComboWater HeaterWater
SoftenerWhole House Dehumidifiers and HumidifiersWide Deck Mower
Schedule Now


REPAIR HVAC RESOURCES

How Much Does it Cost to Replace a Furnace and AC in 2024?

Find out the cost of replacing a furnace and AC at Sears Home Services. Request
a quote today!

5 min readOkt. 24HVAC
Your 2024 Guide to Repairing an Air Conditioner

Master DIY and professional air conditioner repair this year with our expert
guide. Discover cost-effective strategies and maintenance tips to keep your AC
running smoothly.

8 min readOkt. 18HVAC
Home Electrification

Discover the benefits of home electrification in 2024 with Sears Home Services.

5 min readOkt. 17HVAC
Exploring the Cost to Replace a Boiler and How to Save

Looking to replace your boiler? Discover the costs, factors, and savings tips
with expert insights from Sears Home Services.

14 min readOkt. 15HVAC


GLOSSARY TERMS

What is a Humidifier?

A humidifier is a device designed to increase humidity levels in a single room
or an entire building, improving air quality and comfort.

What is Swamp Cooling?

Swamp cooling, also known as evaporative cooling, is a method that cools air
through the natural process of water evaporation. It is energy-efficient and
environmentally friendly, particularly effective in hot, dry climates.

What is Freon?

Freon is a trade name for a group of chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) used as
refrigerants in air conditioning and refrigeration systems, known for its role
in ozone depletion.

What is an Inverter AC Unit?

An inverter AC unit is an air conditioning system equipped with inverter
technology that allows it to vary the compressor speed, enabling precise
temperature control and increased energy efficiency.


COMMON APPLIANCE SYMPTOMS

Whirlpool washer won't stop filling

The most common reasons your Whirlpool washer won't stop filling are a clogged
water valve, a bad water-level pressure switch, or a malfunctioning electronic
control board.

Whirlpool washer won't spin or drain

The most common reasons your Whirlpool washer won't spin or drain are a seized
gearcase, a broken motor, or a failed door switch.

Whirlpool washer won't turn off

The most common reasons your Whirlpool washer won't turn off are a
malfunctioning electronic control board, broken motor or a jammed door lock
assembly.

Whirlpool washer won't start cycle

The most common reasons your Whirlpool washer won't start cycle are a
malfunctioning electronic control board, jammed door lock assembly or a faulty
user interface.

Whirlpool washer vibrates

The most common reasons your Whirlpool washer vibrates are a damaged suspension
rod, malfunctioning electronic control board or a dead fan.

Whirlpool washer rinse cycle not working

The most common reasons your Whirlpool washer is experiencing the rinse cycle
not working are a broken lid switch, a bad water-level pressure switch, or a
malfunctioning electronic control board.

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