Commons Signs That There is an Electrical Issue With Your A/C

Modern air conditioning systems are composed of complex electrical and mechanical
devices that are designed for efficiency and convenience. Electrical issues are common for
air conditioners, especially during seasons of high use or for systems that are not properly
maintained. Many homeowners experience issues with their air conditioners and are
frustrated when they try to address the problem without success. Due to the advanced electrical
design of most HVAC units, it’s important that you contact a professional technician when
attempting to resolve an issue. Not only will this keep you safe, but it can help you save
money in the long run. The following information in this article details common electrical
issues that most air conditioners experience. Keep an eye out for any of these issues so you
know when to call in for backup, helping you get your air conditioner back on track and
keeping your home cool and comfortable.

Breaker Issues

Air conditioners tend to use a large amount of energy, requiring them to have their own
breaker. Some electrical issues can stem from the breaker itself, whether the breaker is
undersized or loose. If the breaker is loose, it can easily be tightened. In contrast, if the
breaker is undersized or faulty, you will need to replace the breaker in your home’s
electrical box.

Wiring Issues

One common electrical issue for air conditioners stems from the wiring in the system.
Most systems are composed of intricate and abundant wires that are susceptible to corrosion,
disconnection, fraying, and other damages. This can ultimately create issues with the flow
of electricity throughout the system, negatively affecting its performance and operation.
Finding the faulty wire can be difficult and dangerous. We suggest you hire a professional
who’s trained to address this type of issue and can properly repair the wires without creating
further damages.

Capacitor Issues

The average air conditioning system contains two fan motors and a compressor motor.
Most systems operate on alternating current requiring the motors to have two capacitors.
One capacitor, called the start capacitor, is responsible for starting up the motors. The other
capacitor, called the run capacitor, is responsible for maintaining the flow of electricity
throughout the motors. If you notice your system stutters when you start it up, or there’s an
issues with the motors, there may be an issue with your capacitors. Faulty or bad capacitors
can lead to total system breakdowns and should be addressed immediately by a professional.