An outside unit that hums while the fan stays still is the call we get most in July in Bellingham, WA, 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
Spotting the early warning signs lets you act before the problem gets expensive. Here are the most common indicators that it's time to call a professional:
- An iced-over evaporator coil or frozen refrigerant lines
- Breaker trips or a burning odor at startup
- Warm or room-temperature air blowing when the thermostat calls for cooling
- Cooling bills climbing while the house stays sticky and warm
- Water leaking around the indoor unit or from the ceiling below it
- Hissing or bubbling sounds that suggest a refrigerant leak
- The outdoor unit humming or clicking but the fan not spinning
- An AC that turns on and off every few minutes but never cools down the house
Don't Wait for a Total Failure
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 (253) 660-5103 and we'll take a look right away.
