Common AC problems Arvada homeowners run into
Cooling season here is short but intense. Systems sit idle for much of the year, then are asked to keep up through a string of hot summer afternoons. That pattern tends to produce a fairly familiar list of complaints.
- Outdoor unit humming but not starting. A common summer complaint. It can show up as a humming outdoor unit with a fan that isn't turning, or a system that tries to start and then trips off. Running the system in this state isn't a good idea, so it's worth shutting it off and getting a local HVAC professional to take a look.
- System won't turn off, or won't turn on. Sometimes the unit runs even after the thermostat is satisfied, or it won't start at all.
- Dirty outdoor unit. Cottonwood, grass clippings and dust can build up around the outdoor unit, making it harder for the system to work efficiently and raising energy bills.
- Weak airflow indoors. A neglected filter, a blocked return, or a crushed duct can restrict airflow. This is a common cause of ice building up inside the system.
- Refrigerant leaks. These usually need to be located rather than just topped off, since a low charge tends to come back otherwise.
- Water pooling near the indoor unit. A clogged condensate drain can shut the system down as a safety measure. It can look like a dead AC but is sometimes a quick fix.
Things worth checking before you book
A couple of quick homeowner checks occasionally solve the problem, and when they don't, they can give the professional a head start.
- Confirm the thermostat is on Cool and set several degrees below room temperature.
- Check the breaker for the indoor unit and the outdoor unit, plus any disconnect switch near the outdoor unit.
- Look at the filter. If it's grey and dusty, replace it and give the system some time to catch up.
- Check around the indoor unit for standing water.
- Look for ice on the copper line where it enters the house. If you see ice, switch the system to fan-only and let it thaw.
What to expect from a visit
A local HVAC professional will typically ask about what you're noticing — when it started, any sounds or smells, and what the thermostat is doing — before taking a closer look at the system. Ask them to explain what they find and what your options are, including estimated pricing, before any work begins.
Repair or replace?
Repair is often the right call for a newer system with a single, isolated problem. It may be worth asking about replacement if the system is quite old, if a major component has failed, or if you've paid for repairs more than once in the last couple of seasons. If you're at that point, it can help to get an idea of both repair and replacement costs before deciding.