An outside unit that hums while the fan stays still is the call we get most in July in Dover, NH, 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.
When the heat goes out, see Furnace Repair.
Warning Signs for AC Repair
The sooner you notice these red flags, the easier and cheaper the fix. Watch for these telltale signs:
- Rapid on-off cycling that never brings the temperature down
- Room-temperature air from the registers even though the AC is running
- Rising electric costs paired with a sticky, uncomfortable house
- A hot electrical smell or a tripped breaker whenever the air conditioner kicks on
- Hissing or bubbling sounds that suggest a refrigerant leak
- Puddles near the air handler or water stains on the ceiling beneath it
- The outdoor unit humming or clicking but the fan not spinning
- Ice on the refrigerant lines or a frozen indoor coil
Act Before It Gets Worse
What seems like a minor issue today can take out a compressor or heat exchanger tomorrow. At the first hint of a problem, call (351) 345-9323 for a fast inspection.
