10 Common AC Repair Issues and How to Prevent Them

Two AC units placed on a metal sheet

Air conditioning is a necessity in Dubai, running constantly to keep homes and businesses comfortable. With temperatures often soaring to extreme levels, any downtime in your AC system can make coping with the heat unbearable. It’s essential to ensure your unit is always in top condition through regular AC maintenance to avoid unexpected breakdowns that disrupt your daily life.

Like any other system, AC units can encounter problems. Here are ten common AC repair issues you should look out for when it comes to your air conditioning system:

AC Repair Issue #1: Inadequate Cooling

You set your thermostat to a comfortable temperature, but your home feels warm. This could be due to a low refrigerant level, a blocked condenser on your roof (we see a lot full of sand!) or dirty air filters. All three of these cause your unit to over work which in turn leads to poor performance and excessive power usage. If your AC is blowing warm air, it’s time to investigate.

AC Repair Issue #2: Frequent Cycling

If your AC unit turns on and off frequently, it may indicate a problem with low gas. This issue is particularly prevalent on the LG units we see in Dubai communities such as The Springs and Arabian Ranches. The automatic safety switch detects low gas and turns it off, but then as the pressure throughout the system settles, the system thinks it is OK to start up again, causing a constant cycle. This not only affects comfort but also increases energy consumption, driving up those DEWA bills.

AC Repair Issue #3: Unusual Noises

Hearing grinding, squealing or rattling noises from your AC unit? These sounds could be signs of loose parts, motor issues or debris inside the system. Ignoring these noises can lead to more significant damage. One of the most common issues we see on external units are broken fan blades, as most are plastic and can snap on hot Dubai roofs. The breakage causes the unit to be uneven, leading it to shake, killing the bearings and overworking the compressor, resulting eventually in failure.

AC Repair Issue #4: Indoor Unit Leaking

When an evaporator coil gets dirty it mixes with the water in the waste pipe, creates a blocked drain line and causes an overflow that often escapes through your ceiling! This could also result from a refrigerant leak too. Both issues can lead to more severe damage if not addressed promptly.

AC Repair Issue #5: Foul Odours

If your AC emits unpleasant smells, it could be due to stagnant water or mildew buildup within the unit or ductwork. This issue compromises air quality and signals that cleaning is required.

AC Repair Issue #6: Burning Smell

If there’s a burning smell coming from the indoor AC unit it will most likely be down to the fan motor being frazzled! As this has safety implications, we’d suggest turning it off immediately and seeking help ASAP.

AC Repair Issue #7: Frozen Evaporator Coils

If your AC unit’s evaporator coil freezes up, turning it to a solid ice block, you might notice reduced airflow or warm air coming from the vents. This can be due to low gas refrigerant levels or poor airflow caused by dirty filters or blocked ducts.

AC Repair Issue #8: Thermostat Problems

If your AC isn’t responding to temperature settings, the thermostat might be faulty or improperly calibrated. This can lead to inconsistent cooling. When your AC unit doesn’t turn on at all it’s usually due to a problem with the electrical control or circuit board or even a hardware failure.

AC Repair Issue #9: High Humidity Levels

A functioning AC should control the humidity levels in your home. If you notice a sticky, humid environment, it could be due to poor air circulation through your AC units or a malfunctioning system.

AC Repair Issue #10: Tripped Circuit Breakers

Frequent tripping of the circuit breaker when the AC is running indicates an electrical issue, which could be due to a short circuit, motor problems, or compressor issues.

Regular AC Maintenance Beats Costly Emergency Repairs

While these issues are common, they are often preventable with regular AC maintenance. Proper maintenance includes cleaning or replacing air filters, checking refrigerant levels, inspecting ducts and coils, and ensuring all electrical components are in good condition. Investing in an annual maintenance contract for your air conditioning system, whether residential or commercial, can help you avoid these common problems and extend the lifespan of your unit.

We Will Fix It offers comprehensive AC maintenance services to keep your AC running smoothly throughout the year. Don’t wait for a breakdown — schedule your maintenance today and enjoy uninterrupted comfort. However, if you’ve already ran into a problem with your AC, We Will Fix It also offers the best AC repair service in Dubai!

Contact us today on 800 349 for a free quote or to schedule your appointment.

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