Why Would My Air Conditioner Stop Working?

Imagine sitting inside on a hot day enjoying cool air from your AC unit. All of a sudden, the system shuts down, and you're left scrambling to find a solution. If you're wondering, "Why would my air conditioner stop working?" we've got your answer. 

Learn common reasons why AC systems fail in this helpful guide from the experts at Bates Air & Heat LLC. We're the most trusted HVAC company in Vero Beach and can repair your air conditioner in a pinch. 

Troubleshooting Basic Problems with Air Conditioning Systems

Whether you use a conventional centralized cooling system, heat pump, or ductless mini-split, an array of common problems can impact all these systems. One of the first things to do is ensure the thermostat is set to the correct temperature. A small glitch with your thermostat settings could turn on the cooling system if it's reading a much higher temperature than you're used to. 

Next, it's important to check the circuit breaker to see if the system shorted because of a breaker tripping. If this is the case, switch the breaker back on and try running your air conditioner. Keep an eye on the electrical panel and watch to see if the breaker trips again. You might need to have a professional inspect the electric wiring.

Finally, look at your HVAC filter and see if it needs changing. Many homeowners who ask, "Why would my air conditioner stop working?" have clogged filters that prevent airflow from the system. Over time, the AC unit will shut down because no air can pass through the filter. 

Check all of your vents as well since your home may not be cooling due to blockages. Clean any debris near the vent openings and make sure that no furniture or large objects obstruct the flow of cool air. 

Why Would My Air Conditioner Stop Working? Common Reasons Behind System Failure

If your air conditioner isn't working and the thermostat, circuit breaker, or HVAC filter doesn't appear to be the cause of the problem, the issue lies within the unit. Below is a breakdown of the most common reasons why air conditioning systems unexpectedly stop working. 

Frozen Evaporator Coil

Every air conditioner uses an evaporator coil to cool the air within your home. The coil contains liquid refrigerant that moves throughout the system and eventually reaches a condenser coil. Throughout this process, the refrigerant evaporates and then reverts back to liquid as part of a continuous heat exchange. 

Any leak in the coils could cause refrigerant to spill out. Instead of staying at a regulated temperature, the coil could freeze and lead to a system malfunction. A licensed technician will need to address this issue by thawing the coil, refilling refrigerant levels, and patching the leak. 

Failed Capacitor

Why would my air conditioner stop working if it has power? Although your AC unit may have the electrical power it needs, its capacitor may be on the brink of failure. This device serves as a type of battery by storing and supplying energy to the rest of the system. A faulty start capacitor means the unit may not turn on, while a failed run capacitor could cause it to short cycle. 

The following issues indicate your capacitor is starting to fail:

• Hearing a hum from the air conditioner but it doesn't turn on. 
• Experiencing short-cycling or the system randomly shutting down. 
• Noticing delays in your cooling system. 

You Have an Ill-Fitting Unit

Trying to turn on a brand-new air conditioner and finding that it won't provide cool air could indicate an improper installation. Another common problem that happens during installation is failing to measure the household's needs and choosing a system that can accommodate those needs. Many people find their air conditioners are failing to work because they're too small for the home. 

Always consult an HVAC professional before installing a new air conditioning system. They can assess if the unit is capable of cooling your entire house or if you need to alter the size. Units that are too small will struggle to cool an entire home, while choosing a unit that's too big can waste energy and cost you more every month. 

When to Call a Professional

Stop wondering, "Why would my air conditioner stop working?" and look for a quick solution. More often than not, cooling systems fail because of clogged air filters, tripped circuit breakers, or thermostat problems. Check these components first and determine if they're the reason why your system suddenly quit. 

Restoring cool air to your home may be as easy as changing the temperature on the thermostat, replacing the air filter, or flipping the circuit breaker back on. If the problem stems from your air conditioner itself, a professional technician will need to inspect the system and repair the issue. 

To avoid major issues, schedule annual air conditioning maintenance. Technicians will clean and inspect all components of your AC unit so it operates without issue during peak cooling season. Tune-ups not only help extend the life of your air conditioner but also save you money on repair and energy costs. 

Replacing an Air Conditioner

If you find yourself dealing with air conditioning breakdowns often and the repair costs are adding up, it might be more economical to replace your unit. This is especially prevalent if your unit is over ten years old and approaching the end of its lifespan. Upgrading to a newer, more efficient system can save you money in the long run and help you avoid common problems that tend to impact older units. 

Contact Bates Air & Heat LLC for Reliable HVAC Services

Don't search the Internet for answers to common HVAC questions, like "Why would my air conditioner stop working?" and "Is continuously running your air conditioner fan safe?" Let the experts at Bates Air & Heat LLC give you peace of mind. We have years of industry experience and understand all the complexities of HVAC systems. 

Contact us at (772) 837-5389 whenever you need air conditioning repairs, installation, maintenance, or emergency service.