A humming outdoor unit with a fan that will not turn is the classic summer service call in Warwick, RI, 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
The sooner you notice these red flags, the easier and cheaper the fix. Keep an eye out for the following clues:
- Warm or room-temperature air blowing when the thermostat calls for cooling
- The system short-cycling every few minutes without cooling the house
- The outdoor unit humming or clicking but the fan not spinning
- Hissing or bubbling sounds that suggest a refrigerant leak
- A burning smell or repeated breaker trips when the AC starts
- Cooling bills climbing while the house stays sticky and warm
- Water dripping from the indoor unit or showing up on the ceiling below
- Frost or ice forming on the copper lines or the indoor coil
Act Before It Gets Worse
What seems like a minor issue today can take out a compressor or heat exchanger tomorrow. Call (401) 204-0640 at the first sign of trouble.
