Air conditioners are reliable, but no system runs forever without the occasional hiccup. Recognising what a symptom means helps you decide whether it is a quick fix or a job for a licensed technician. Here are the problems we are called out to most often.
The system runs but the air is not cold
This usually points to low refrigerant (almost always caused by a leak), a dirty coil, or a compressor issue. Because refrigerant work must be done by a licensed technician, and a leak needs to be found rather than just topped up, this is one to have looked at properly.
Weak or reduced airflow
If the air is cold but there is not much of it, the cause is often a blocked filter or dirty coil, a fan problem, or a duct or zoning fault in a ducted system. Start by checking the filter — but persistent weak airflow is worth investigating, as we note in 5 signs your AC needs a service.
Water leaking from the indoor unit
A blocked or overflowing condensate drain is the usual culprit. It should be addressed promptly, because water can damage the unit and surrounding building fabric, and a damp environment encourages mould.
Strange noises
Different sounds point to different problems:
- Grinding or squealing — a mechanical part may be wearing out
- Rattling — a loose component or debris in the unit
- Clicking that will not stop — a possible electrical or control fault
- Buzzing — often electrical and worth checking early
The system keeps turning on and off
This is short-cycling. It can be caused by an oversized system, a thermostat fault, or low refrigerant. It wears the system out quickly, so it is best diagnosed early rather than left to run.
Bad smells
Musty smells usually mean mould or moisture inside the unit. A burning smell is more serious — switch the system off and call a technician. Neither should be ignored, especially where the air circulates through living and sleeping areas.
When to call a professional
Checking and cleaning filters is fine to do yourself. Anything involving refrigerant, electrical components or internal parts should be left to a licensed technician — both for safety and to protect your warranty. If in doubt, get in touch and we will diagnose it properly.
