Common Air Conditioning Problems & Fixes: What Every Homeowner Should Know
Discover why your AC isn’t cooling and how to fix common issues like frozen coils, leaks, and thermostat glitches.
It’s the middle of summer in Santa Clara, and your air conditioning suddenly stops cooling. The frustration sets in fast. You tweak the thermostat, check the vents, and still—no relief.
You’re not alone. These kinds of air conditioning problems are all too common, but many of them can be diagnosed (and even fixed) without a full system overhaul.
At FairPrice Heating & Cooling, we’ve helped thousands of Bay Area homeowners solve AC issues quickly, affordably, and with long-term reliability in mind. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the most common AC problems, what causes them, how to fix them—and when it’s time to call in the pros.
AC Not Cooling Properly
Symptoms:
- Warm air blowing from vents
- Uneven temperatures throughout the house
- Compressor runs constantly or shuts off too soon
Possible Causes:
- Dirty air filters restrict airflow and cause the unit to overheat.
- Blocked or leaking ducts allow cool air to escape before it reaches your rooms.
- Low refrigerant levels reduce cooling efficiency.
- Compressor or capacitor failure halts the cooling cycle.
DIY Fixes:
- Replace or clean your air filters (every 1–3 months).
- Check for obvious duct obstructions or damage.
- Ensure the outdoor unit is clean and has airflow clearance.
When to Call a Pro:
If cleaning the filter and checking vents don’t help, it’s time to contact FairPrice Heating & Cooling for a diagnostic AC repair.
Frozen Coils or Refrigerant Leaks
Symptoms:
- AC is running but blowing warm air
- Ice buildup on evaporator coil or refrigerant line
- Water pooling under the indoor unit
Root Causes:
- Refrigerant leaks from worn-out or corroded coils
- Restricted airflow due to clogged filters or fans
- Low outdoor temperatures while running the unit
What You Can Do:
- Turn off the AC and allow the ice to melt completely.
- Replace the air filter to improve airflow.
- Avoid running the AC in cool weather.
Why Professional Help Is Essential:
Handling refrigerant is not a DIY job. Our certified technicians can detect leaks, recharge your system, and ensure it runs safely and efficiently.
Thermostat Problems
Signs of Trouble:
- Thermostat doesn’t respond or displays an error
- AC doesn’t match set temperature
- Short cycling (frequent on/off)
Common Issues:
- Low or dead batteries
- Poor thermostat placement
- Wiring problems or age-related failure
Quick Fixes:
- Replace the batteries.
- Ensure the thermostat isn’t near heat sources.
- Restart your HVAC system after resetting the thermostat.
Upgrade Opportunity:
FairPrice can install smart thermostats that cut cooling costs by up to 10% annually. Learn about smart thermostat options.
Repair vs Replace: How to Decide
When to Repair:
- Unit is less than 10 years old
- Problem is isolated (fan motor, capacitor)
- Repair cost is less than 30% of replacement
When to Replace:
- Unit is over 12-15 years old
- Frequent breakdowns
- Uses phased-out refrigerant like R-22
- Repairs cost more than half of a new system
Explore our AC installation services for high-efficiency options and financing support.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What causes an AC unit to stop cooling?
A: Dirty filters, low refrigerant, blocked ducts, or a faulty thermostat are the usual culprits.
Q2: Can I fix a frozen coil myself?
A: You can let it thaw and change the filter, but refrigerant-related issues need a professional.
Q3: How do I know if I need a new thermostat?
A: If it’s unresponsive, short-cycles, or inaccurate, it’s time to replace—especially if over 7 years old.
Q4: What’s the average cost to repair vs replace an AC?
A: Repairs range from $150–$1,000. Replacement ranges from $4,000–$12,000 depending on your system.
Get Your AC Fixed Fast—Call FairPrice Today
If your AC isn’t keeping up with the heat, don’t wait until it fails completely.
Contact FairPrice Heating & Cooling for expert diagnostics, repairs, or installation—all with honest pricing and 24/7 service.
📞 Call us at (408) 608-8246 today!