A humming outdoor unit with a fan that will not turn is the call we get most in July in Denton, TX, 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.
Heating trouble instead? See Furnace Repair.
Warning Signs for AC Repair
Recognizing the warning signs early can save you time and money. Keep an eye out for the following clues:
- An iced-over evaporator coil or frozen refrigerant lines
- Water dripping from the indoor unit or showing up on the ceiling below
- An AC that turns on and off every few minutes but never cools down the house
- Bubbling or hissing noises that point to a possible refrigerant leak
- Room-temperature air from the registers even though the AC is running
- A hot electrical smell or a tripped breaker whenever the air conditioner kicks on
- Clicking or humming outside with no fan movement
- Rising electric costs paired with a sticky, uncomfortable house
Early Action Saves Money
Most HVAC failures start small, a weak capacitor, a squealing blower, a system that runs a little longer each week. At the first hint of a problem, call (940) 204-7066 for a fast inspection.
