How to fix the most common air conditioning issues

Experiencing problems with your air conditioning unit?

Air conditioning systems are essential for home comfort, but they can encounter common issues that affect performance. Air conditioners can struggle with refrigerant leaks, dirty filters, and drainage blockages. In this blog, we’ll cover these common air conditioning issues, their causes, and how to troubleshoot and fix problems yourself, as well as when to call a technician, so that your systems run smoothly year round.

Understanding these issues can help you avoid costly repairs and maintain a comfortable home.

Common air conditioning issues

1. Refrigerant leaks

• Problem: Loss of refrigerant can reduce cooling efficiency and damage the compressor.
• Solution: Contact an engineer or technician to locate and fix the leak, then check and recharge the refrigerant as needed.
• With Ecotech: We handle diagnostics and safe recharge, prolonging your system’s life and saving energy. Get in contact to learn more.

2. Inadequate maintenance

• Signs: Reduced airflow, overheating, and rising energy costs.
• Solution: Clean or replace your air conditioning filters every 1-3 months, and schedule regular cleaning and servicing.
• With Ecotech: We offer professional air conditioning maintenance to keep your unit fully functioning. Learn more about our services here.

3. Electric control failure

• Problem: Wear on compressor and fan controls, particularly due to on/off cycling or corrosion of wires and terminals, causes electrical control failure.
• Solution: Contact a technician to inspect for worn components, and replace controllers and corroded connections as necessary.
• With Ecotech: Our expert engineers can troubleshoot electrical faults in your air conditioning unit - click here to get in contact.

4. Sensor problems

• Symptoms: Erratic cycling or constant on/off behaviour.
• Solution: Carefully reposition the sensor's position by bending the wire which holds it, ensuring it is near but not touching the coil. If the problem persists, call a professional.
• With Ecotech: As part of our emergency AC servicing, we can provide precise calibration of your sensor. Get in touch for a quote.

5. Drainage problems

• Symptoms: Water pooling, leaks, or system shutdown as a result of improper mounting.
• Solution: Clear any clogged drain lines and ensure proper mounting and slope for condensate flow.
• With Ecotech: We provide rapid clearance of clogged drainage and correct install to avoid dampness and faults. Find out more here.

6. Radiators are not heating up

• Problem: Air conditioning is blowing air but not cooling or heating, often due to a control or refrigerant fault.
• Solution: Reset your AC unit. If the issue persists, call a professional.
• With Ecotech: We provide full diagnostics and repair to restore both heating and cooling functions. Get in touch today.

Why regular maintenance matters

Maintaining your system regularly:

• Saves energy
• Reduces the risk of breakdown
• Extends system lifespan
• Keeps annual running costs predictable

Ecotech’s service plans include proactive inspections and tailored upkeep, ideal for peace of mind. 

Real Success: Freightliner Group Ltd Case Study

Ecotech installed a Mitsubishi Electric VRF (Variable Refrigerant Flow) heat pump system in Freightliner's 8,000 sq ft office/training academy. Highlights:

• Zoned climate control: 13 indoor units with independent BC Controller access.

• Minimal disruption: Installed manually without cranes while the academy remained fully operational.

• Exceptional efficiency: Achieved a COP of 3.6, delivering 3.6 kW of heat per 1 kW input.

This installation demonstrates Ecotech’s ability to deliver high performance, high efficiency HVAC solutions with an excellent overall client experience, even amidst logistical challenges. Click here to read our detailed case study on this installation.

Understanding the common air conditioning issues can help you keep your home comfortable year round. Issues like, refrigerant leaks, electric control failure and drainage blockages are all fixable with the right approach, whether it's simple troubleshooting or calling a professional. 

Regular maintenance is key to preventing major problems and ensuring your air conditioning systems run smoothly when you need them most. By staying on top of these common issues, you can save time, money, and stress, while keeping your systems in top condition. Learn more about air conditioning services, or get in touch with us if you have a query.