Common Air Conditioner Problems and Simple Fixes: Your Guide to Cool and Comfortable Living
Keeping your home cool in Western Australia’s hot and dry summers is essential for comfort. But when your air conditioner starts acting up, it can be frustrating and inconvenient.
Many common air conditioner problems can be diagnosed and fixed with simple troubleshooting. Regular air conditioner maintenance helps improve efficiency, extends the unit’s lifespan, and prevents costly repairs.
This guide covers common AC issues, their causes, and easy air conditioner fixes to keep your system running efficiently.
1. Weak or No Airflow: Why Isn’t My AC Blowing Cold Air?
Symptoms:
- AC is running, but little or no air is coming from vents
- Reduced cooling performance, even at the lowest temperature setting
Possible Causes:
- Clogged air filters restricting airflow
- Blocked vents preventing proper circulation
- Fan motor issues reducing efficiency
Simple Fixes:
- Clean or replace the air filter – Dirty filters block airflow and force your system to work harder. In WA’s dusty climate, clean them every two weeks.
- Check vents and registers – Ensure they are open and not blocked by furniture, curtains, or dust buildup.
- Inspect the fan motor – If cleaning filters and vents doesn’t help, the issue could be with the blower fan or motor, requiring professional split system repairs.
2. Strange Noises or Smells: What’s That Sound Coming from My AC?
Symptoms:
- Rattling, buzzing, or grinding noises
- Musty, burning, or chemical odours
Possible Causes:
- Loose or worn-out components causing vibrations
- Mould or bacteria buildup in the drain line
- Overheating parts leading to burning smells
Simple Fixes:
- Tighten loose screws – Vibrations over time can loosen internal parts, causing rattling sounds.
- Clean the air filter and evaporator coils – Dust and moisture create the perfect environment for bacteria and mould.
- Flush the condensate drain line – Use a mix of warm water and vinegar to clear blockages and eliminate musty odours.
🚨 Warning: If you hear a grinding noise or smell burning plastic, turn off your AC immediately and call an air conditioner servicing expert.
3. Water Leaks or Excess Moisture: Why Is My Air Conditioner Leaking Water?
Symptoms:
- Puddles forming around the indoor or outdoor unit
- Increased humidity inside the home
Possible Causes:
- Blocked drain pipes preventing water from draining properly
- Frozen evaporator coils due to restricted airflow
- Improper installation leading to water pooling
Simple Fixes:
- Unclog the condensate drain line – Use a wet/dry vacuum to clear debris and prevent overflow.
- Check for ice buildup on the coils – If they are frozen, turn off the system and allow them to thaw completely before restarting.
- Call a professional – If the leak persists, your unit may be improperly installed or have a refrigerant issue.
Pro Tip: In coastal areas of WA, salt buildup can cause corrosion in AC components. Regular cleaning helps prevent long-term damage.
4. AC Switching On and Off Too Often: Why Won’t My Air Conditioner Stay On?
Symptoms:
- AC turns on and off frequently without fully cooling the home
- Inconsistent temperatures across different rooms
Possible Causes:
- Incorrect thermostat settings
- Dirty outdoor condenser coils reducing efficiency
- Oversized or undersized AC unit leading to short cycling
Simple Fixes:
- Adjust thermostat settings – Set it to “auto” instead of “on” to prevent unnecessary cycling.
- Clean the condenser coils – Outdoor units collect dirt and debris, especially in WA’s windy regions. Use a gentle brush or hose to clean them.
- Assess unit size – If your AC is too large for your space, it may cool the area too quickly and shut off. A professional can evaluate whether split system repairs or a replacement is needed.
Essential Air Conditioner Maintenance Tips for Western Australia Homes
Regular air conditioner maintenance prevents costly breakdowns and ensures efficient cooling. Follow these simple steps:
- Clean or replace filters every two to four weeks, especially in summer when AC usage is highest.
- Keep the outdoor unit clear of leaves, dirt, and debris to prevent overheating.
- Check for unusual noises and address small issues before they become major problems.
- Schedule annual professional servicing to ensure your AC is operating at peak efficiency.
Did You Know? Homes in Perth and regional WA often experience extreme heat waves. Regular servicing ensures your AC can handle high temperatures efficiently.
Northern Perth is known for having large heat waves, check out suburbs that we service on the daily!
When to Call a Professional for Air Conditioner Repairs
While simple air conditioner troubleshooting can fix many minor issues, some problems require expert attention. Call a professional if:
- Your AC keeps tripping the circuit breaker or causing electrical problems.
- The unit makes loud grinding or screeching noises, even after basic troubleshooting.
- There is a persistent refrigerant leak, causing poor cooling performance.
- Repair costs keep adding up, and a new unit may be a more cost-effective solution.
A qualified air conditioner servicing expert can diagnose complex issues and recommend whether a repair or replacement is the best option.
Keep Your Home Cool and Comfortable All Year Round
Understanding common air conditioner problems and performing basic maintenance can help you avoid costly repairs and unexpected breakdowns.
If you need expert air conditioner repairs or servicing, trust Air-Cond Installs WA for fast and reliable service.
Contact us today for a free quote and keep your home cool and comfortable all year round.
