An outside unit that hums while the fan stays still is the call we get most in July in New Britain, CT, 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. Here are the most common indicators that it's time to call a professional:
- Bubbling or hissing noises that point to a possible refrigerant leak
- An iced-over evaporator coil or frozen refrigerant lines
- Water leaking around the indoor unit or from the ceiling below it
- A hot electrical smell or a tripped breaker whenever the air conditioner kicks on
- A condenser fan that sits still while the outdoor unit hums
- Higher summer bills even though the house still feels warm and humid
- The system short-cycling every few minutes without cooling the house
- Vents blowing air that is barely cooler than the room
Act Before It Gets Worse
Left unchecked, even a small fault or temperature swing often signals a system working its way toward a breakdown. Call (860) 470-9960 at the first sign of trouble.
