8 Common Causes of an Air Conditioning System Breakdown

• Lack of Regular Maintenance: Neglecting regular maintenance is one of the leading causes of air conditioning system breakdowns. With time, dust, dirt, and debris can get into various parts of the system, causing it to work harder and less efficiently. This strain can lead to increased wear and tear on components, resulting in breakdowns. Routine maintenance, such as cleaning coils, checking refrigerant levels, and inspecting electrical connections, can prevent these issues and keep your system running smoothly.
• Dirty or Clogged Filters: Air filters are essential for maintaining indoor air quality and system efficiency. When filters become dirty or clogged, they restrict the airflow through the system. As a result, the air conditioner has to work harder to circulate air, leading to reduced cooling efficiency and increased energy consumption. Regularly changing or cleaning filters is a simple yet effective way to prevent this problem and extend the life of your system.
• Refrigerant Leaks: Refrigerant is crucial for the cooling process in your air conditioning system. If there’s a refrigerant leak, the system’s cooling capacity diminishes, and the unit may struggle to provide adequate cooling. Low refrigerant levels lead the compressor to overwork, leading to potential damage. Detecting and repairing refrigerant leaks promptly ensures proper cooling performance and prevents further issues.
• Electrical Component Failures: The electrical components of an air conditioning system, including wiring, capacitors, and relays, are prone to wear and tear over time. Faulty wiring or corroded connections can disrupt the electrical flow, leading to system malfunctions or complete shutdowns. Regular inspections of electrical components and timely repairs can prevent electrical issues from causing breakdowns.
• Compressor Issues: Compressor issues can arise due to electrical problems, refrigerant imbalances, or inadequate maintenance. If the compressor fails, your AC will likely blow warm air or fail to cool the space. Prompt attention to compressor issues is crucial to prevent extensive damage to the entire system.
• Frozen Evaporator Coils: Evaporator coils play a vital role in absorbing heat from the air to cool it down. However, the evaporator coils can freeze if airflow is restricted due to dirty filters, blocked vents, or low refrigerant levels. Frozen coils reduce cooling efficiency and can increase strain on the system’s components, potentially causing a breakdown.
• Thermostat Malfunctions: The thermostat controls the temperature settings of your air conditioning system. If the thermostat malfunctions or reads the temperature inaccurately, the system might run longer than necessary or shut off prematurely. This leads to uneven cooling, discomfort, and increased energy consumption.
• Overworked System: During periods of extreme heat, your air conditioning system can become overworked if it constantly runs without breaks. Overworking can cause components to overheat, wear out faster, and eventually lead to system breakdowns. To avoid this, use programmable thermostats to regulate cooling schedules and provide your system with much-needed rest.

Understanding these eight common causes of air conditioning system breakdowns can help you take proactive measures to prevent them. Regular maintenance, prompt repairs, and attention to system performance are key to ensuring your air conditioner operates efficiently and reliably, keeping you comfortable even during the year’s hottest days. If you’re facing an air conditioning breakdown, it’s advisable to contact professionals like Poston Brothers for expert diagnosis, repair, and maintenance services.