When Your Air Conditioner Won't Work

Possible Reasons Your AC Is Malfunctioning

14 August 2023 by Clara Fernandez

Many theories are floating around trying to explain why air conditioners sometimes malfunction. The reality is that there are so many reasons an AC might fail. Finding the reason for your AC's failure requires a professional diagnosis. Below are some of the real reasons your AC might malfunction. 

You Have Not Replaced the Filter in a Long Time

According to bobvila.com, you should replace the air filter every 30 to 90 days, depending on the environment and AC usage. The air filter cleans the air entering the AC system by trapping air particles. The trapped particles accumulate on the filter and reduce the air volume that can pass through at any time.

Reduced airflow is bad because the AC needs air to cool your home. Thus, the system will go into overdrive to cool your home if it's not getting the air it needs. Such an overworking AC can overheat and break down.

The Environment Is Extremely Dirty

Some homes are dustier than others. For example, your home may be dirty than the average home if:

• You are remodeling, renovating, or constructing something in the home
• You live near a dusty road
• The house has poor ventilation and airflow

Too much dirt in the environment affects the AC in two main ways. First, the debris will clog the air filter fast and cause the effects above. Secondly, some dust will settle on the AC motor, coil, belt, fan, and other parts, causing damage. For example, dust accumulation on the motor increases friction, which leads to overheating, increased wear and tear, and damage.

The System Is Old

The AC's mechanical and electrical parts all experience wear and tear. An AC's lifespan depends on:

• How much you use it daily
• The make and model
• The AC type
• The environment
• The maintenance

For example, a window AC lasts about ten years. Different parts of the system start to fail around the ten-year mark. For example, the AC motor might seize after a decade of hard use.

An Electrical Fault Affected the System

Your AC needs electricity to power the motors that run the compressor and condenser units. The electricity also runs the fan that blows air into the ductwork. Other AC parts that need electricity include the relays, thermostat, and main control board.

Each of these parts requires specific electricity levels; too much current or voltage can damage them. For example, too much voltage can damage the relays, start, or run capacitors, causing the AC to malfunction.

Contact an AC repair technician to learn more. 

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