A humming outdoor unit with a fan that will not turn is the classic summer service call in Raleigh, NC, and the cause is usually a failed run capacitor. That inexpensive component starts the compressor and fan, fades for years without complaint, and then quits under peak load. It is far from the only suspect, though. Contactors pit and stop passing clean power, condenser fan bearings dry out, small refrigerant leaks drain away cooling capacity, and evaporator coils ice over when a clogged filter strangles airflow.
For winter breakdowns, see Furnace Repair.
Warning Signs for AC Repair
The sooner you notice these red flags, the easier and cheaper the fix. Here are the most common indicators that it's time to call a professional:
- An AC that turns on and off every few minutes but never cools down the house
- A burning smell or repeated breaker trips when the AC starts
- An iced-over evaporator coil or frozen refrigerant lines
- A hiss or gurgle from the lines, a common sign of leaking refrigerant
- The outdoor unit humming or clicking but the fan not spinning
- Warm or room-temperature air blowing when the thermostat calls for cooling
- Rising electric costs paired with a sticky, uncomfortable house
- Puddles near the air handler or water stains on the ceiling beneath it
Early Action Saves Money
A failing capacitor, clogged condensate drain, or dirty flame sensor rarely fixes itself and usually gets more expensive to address the longer it runs. Don't wait, call (984) 213-5886 and we'll take a look right away.
