An outside unit that hums while the fan stays still is the call we get most in July in Coral Gables, FL, 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
Catching these issues early helps you avoid costly problems. Keep an eye out for the following clues:
- A hiss or gurgle from the lines, a common sign of leaking refrigerant
- An AC that turns on and off every few minutes but never cools down the house
- Water dripping from the indoor unit or showing up on the ceiling below
- Ice on the refrigerant lines or a frozen indoor coil
- Breaker trips or a burning odor at startup
- Vents blowing air that is barely cooler than the room
- Higher summer bills even though the house still feels warm and humid
- A condenser fan that sits still while the outdoor unit hums
Act Before It Gets Worse
A failing capacitor, clogged condensate drain, or dirty flame sensor rarely fixes itself and usually gets more expensive to address the longer it runs. Call (645) 245-6099 at the first sign of trouble.
