There are many different types of air conditioning units on the market, from a simple stand-alone unit to the more sophisticated and more efficient vrf systems. These have multiple indoor units but just one dedicated condenser.

In general, this makes it easier to control the temperature throughout the building and more cost-efficient.

But, regardless of what type of air conditioning unit you have, it’s essential to be aware of the 5 most common causes of air conditioner problems. This will help you to prepare for them and enjoy the air conditioner when you really need it.

Don’t forget, the best cure is simply prevention, regular maintenance will help your system to keep running for years. Occasional professional duct cleaning can not only avoid you costly repairs, but also keep your duct effective at all times.

1. Low Refrigerant

The refrigerant is the lifeblood of your air conditioner. It flows around the system in the same way that water does when heating radiators. Air flows over the refrigerant which removes the warmth and humidity from it, leaving you with cool air entering your home.

The bigger the system the more refrigerant you need and the more likely it is you’ll have a leak and not detect it.

If there’s a leak then the refrigerant can’t do its job properly and you’ll get warm air instead of cold.

2. Dirty or Frozen Condenser Coils

The refrigerant does most of its work when it flows through the condenser coils. This is where the air can get to it and it cools it. For this to happen efficiently, the coils need warm air to flow around and through them.

However, if the coils are dirty the warm air will not be able to flow smoothly. If this happens the coils will actually get too cold and there will be ice on the outside of the coils. This will prevent it from working and you’ll either have no air coming through or warm air instead of cold.

3. Blocked or Leaking Ducts

The ducts or flexible ducting are what carry the air around your home. If they are blocked then the air can’t get from the air conditioner to your rooms. You may get a little airflow or you’ll hear the system straining while you have no cold air.

Equally, holes or bad seals in the ducts will cause you to lose air when you don’t want to. The air conditioner will stick work but your energy bills will be higher as the unit works much harder to keep you cool. Hiring duct cleaning experts to clean it up will significantly restore the condition of your duct and allow it to work more efficiently.

4. Thermostat Issues

This is one of the simplest issues and is often overlooked. The thermostat tells the air conditioner what temperature you’d like the room or building to be. If the thermostat isn’t accurate then the air conditioner will still work, but the room will be cooler or warmer than you expect.

5. Clogged Drains

Finally, air conditioners remove humidity from the air. The water has to be collected and disposed of. That means all air conditioner units have drains to take the water away. If these become clogged the water will back up.

The result will either be a safety that cuts the air conditioner off or it will short the electrics as the water level rises inside the unit.

As already mentioned, the key is to get your unit regularly serviced and avoid these issues.