Why Is My Aircon Not Cold? Troubleshooting and Repair Service Tips
“Why is my aircon not cold?” is a question you are likely to ask when the weather is hot and humid, and your aircon is not cooling your home as usual. Before you rush to schedule time for repairs, pinpointing the problem with your aircon is half the battle to solving the problem. Recognising the causes of common aircon problems will help you decide whether the problem can be solved on your own, or if you need a professional aircon servicer.
Common Aircon Problems
Thermostat Settings
Sometimes, an aircon does not cool the room because the aircon’s thermostat is not set to the correct temperature and mode. Set your aircon to “Cool” mode and lower the temperature by five degrees. If the surroundings are still not cool enough, this is a sign of other underlying issues.
Blinking Lights
Blinking or flashing lights usually indicate an electronic glitch. You can try turning the aircon unit off at the wall switch for ten minutes.
Low Gas or Refrigerant Levels
The refrigerant or gas level could be running low due to a leak if your aircon is not cooling your home as efficiently as before. In your aircon unit, coolant levels should remain fixed, and you need to check it for signs of a leak. Look for damage to the compressor and the refrigerant lines, which are the copper pipes connecting the compressor to the indoor aircon unit.
Leaking Water
It is normal for condensation to form when your aircon is in use, as the water from condensation drips into a pan and flows into the drainage pipe. If you notice water dripping out of your indoor unit this is a sign of a blocked condensate line. Leaks from the outdoor unit may be caused by a clogged drainage pipe line, and broken components. Turn off your aircon immediately to avoid water damage to the surrounding area.
Dirty or Clogged Air Filters
Dust, pet fur, and pollen can accumulate and block the filters inside the indoor unit, decreasing its cooling efficiency. Switch off your aircon and remove the filters to clean them.
Compressor Problems
Do not forget to check the compressor as it is outdoors and exposed to the elements. Over time, dirt and debris, such as dead leaves, build up on the compressor and block the airflow to the condenser coils and cooling fins. Try spraying the compressor with a hose to clean off the dirt. Inspect the compressor for signs of damage or wear and tear, such as strange grinding sounds, or excessive trembling when it is in use.
Dirty or Clogged Evaporator Coil
The evaporator coil in your indoor aircon unit accumulates dirt and dust, especially if the aircon is in heavy use. In extreme cases, ice forms on the evaporator coil when the airflow is clogged.
Step-by-Step Troubleshooting Process
Here are some simple DIY checks you can carry out before thinking you have a malfunctioning aircon unit:
Check the Thermostat
Verify that your aircon’s thermostat is set to the right temperature, or your aircon is in cooling mode. If the remote control does not work, replace the batteries.
Clean the Air Filters
Open the front panel of the indoor unit and locate the air filters. Remove them by pulling them towards you. The air filters can be cleaned with a simple rinse with room temperature water. Leave them to dry completely before putting them back in the aircon
Check the Power or Electrical Connection
If your aircon system will not switch on, check the circuit breaker box in your home to see if the system has tripped. Also, consider if new electrical devices have been installed in your home since the aircon was last used, as your home’s power consumption may have exceeded its capacity.
Important Safety Warning
Switch off your aircon unit at the main circuit breaker before you inspect or touch any components, fans, or filters to prevent electric shock and injury.
When to Contact Professional Help
The following list describes warning signs that your aircon requires a professional aircon repair service provider to prevent further damage or safety risks to your home:
If Your Aircon Emits a Burning Smell
This is a sign of electrical issues such as overheated wiring, motor, or a circuit board failure.
If Your Aircon Emits Dark Smoke
Dark smoke indicates serious electrical component failure. Switch off the aircon unit and leave your home if the smoke is heavy.
Your Compressor Makes Banging or Clanking Noises
A loose or broken component, such as a fan blade, can hit other mechanical parts inside the compressor. The faulty component can destroy the compressor if not replaced immediately.
When Your Aircon Will Not Start At All
This issue may be caused by dead batteries in the remote control, however it is usually a sign of electrical failure, such as a blown fuse or circuit breaker.
Are you currently experiencing cooling issues with your aircon? Our team at Luxury Cool are ready to assist you with your aircon concerns if you need an aircon maintenance service in Singapore.