The Most Common Types of AC Repairs
What Homeowners Should Know
Many AC Issues Are Common
...and easily fixable!
When your AC system starts acting up, it can quickly turn a relaxing New Mexico day into a hot, uncomfortable mess. As Santa Fe’s trusted name in heating and cooling, we’ve seen just about every type of air conditioner problem you can imagine. The good news? Many AC issues are common—and fixable with the right know-how.
Let’s dive into what typically goes wrong—and how our team at Santa Fe Heating and Cooling can help. There’s a reason we’re known as the Premier Santa Fe HVAC company!
Whether you’re in Santa Fe, Española, or Los Alamos, understanding the most common types of AC repairs can help you spot issues early, save money, and keep your home cool and comfortable. We help you maintain the type of heating and cooling Santa Fe residents need.
1. Refrigerant Leaks
Refrigerant is the lifeblood of your air conditioning system. It circulates through coils, absorbing and releasing heat to cool your home. When there’s a leak, your AC loses efficiency and may blow warm air.
What We Do:
We don’t just “top it off.” Our team locates and fixes the leak, tests the system, and recharges it to manufacturer specs. Quick, clean, and done right the first time.
Signs of a Refrigerant Leak
- Hissing or bubbling noises
- Ice buildup on refrigerant lines
- Longer cooling cycles
- Higher energy bills
2. Frozen Evaporator Coils
If your AC is running but the air isn’t cool, frozen coils might be the culprit. This usually happens due to airflow issues—often from dirty filters, blocked ducts, or low refrigerant levels.
- Symptoms:
- Reduced airflow
- Warm air coming from vents
- Ice visible on the unit
Our fix:
We thaw out the coils (without causing further damage), check for airflow issues, and inspect refrigerant pressure. Prevention is key here, so we also offer tips on filter maintenance and routine checkups.
Psst… we offer furnace repair in Santa Fe, NM (for those occasional cold nights).
3. Dirty or Clogged Air Filters
Sometimes, the fix is as simple as replacing a dirty air filter.
But ignoring this small task can lead to bigger problems like poor airflow, frozen coils, and reduced efficiency.
How Often Should You Change Filters?
For most households, every 1–3 months. If you have pets, allergies, or live in a dusty area like many parts of northern New Mexico, check more often.
Our Advice:
We educate homeowners on proper filter choices and maintenance schedules. It’s a small effort with big returns.
4. Faulty Capacitors and Contactors
Capacitors and contactors are electrical components that power your AC’s compressor and fan motors. When they fail, your AC might not turn on—or it might start and stop abruptly.
Warning Signs:
- Clicking noises at startup
- AC unit won’t turn on
- AC shuts off randomly
What We Do:
Using proper diagnostics tools, we test and replace these parts as needed. It’s a straightforward ac repair in Santa Fe, NM but one that requires safe handling and experience. And, in the odd instance where a repair is not cost effective, we can help with air conditioning installation, too.
5. Thermostat Issues
Before you panic about a major repair, check your thermostat. Sometimes the problem isn’t your AC—it’s the brain behind it.
Typical Problems:
- Dead batteries or unresponsive screens
- Incorrect settings
- Miscalibration leading to poor temperature control
Smart Upgrade Tip:
We offer thermostat upgrades, including smart thermostats that help you manage cooling more efficiently—even when you’re not home.
Did you know we can also help with swamp cooler installation?
6. Drainage Problems
Your AC doesn’t just cool air—it also removes moisture. This condensation usually drains outside through a small pipe. But if that drain gets clogged, you could be facing water damage, mold, and poor cooling performance.
Symptoms:
- Musty odors
- Water around the indoor unit
- AC shuts down due to safety switches
The Solution:
We’ll clean and clear the drainage line, inspect the condensate pan, and ensure the system drains properly. Regular maintenance helps prevent this issue altogether.
7. Worn Out or Broken Fan Motors
If the fan that blows air over your evaporator coil or through your home fails, your system can’t cool efficiently—and it might overheat.
Common Clues:
- AC runs but no air comes out
- Strange rattling or buzzing noises
- Outdoor fan not spinning
How We Handle It:
We check motor condition, replace faulty components, and confirm everything is operating smoothly before we leave. No guesswork—just results.
8. Compressor Failure
The compressor is the heart of your AC system. If it goes down, your whole system can stop working. This is one of the most serious (and costly) repairs.
Possible Causes:
- Electrical issues
- Dirty coils
- Refrigerant problems
- Lack of maintenance
Our Approach:
We thoroughly inspect the system to determine if the compressor is truly the issue—or if another part is causing the failure. If a replacement is needed, we’ll walk you through your options, including potential system upgrades.
Preventive Tip: Don’t Wait for a Breakdown!
Most AC repairs stem from one thing—lack of routine maintenance. That’s why we recommend seasonal tune-ups to keep your system running smoothly.
With Santa Fe Heating and Cooling, LLC, you get:
- Prompt service from experienced techs
- Transparent pricing and detailed explanations
- Long-term solutions, not band-aids
When to Call in the Pros
You don’t have to be an HVAC expert to know something’s wrong. If your AC isn’t cooling, is making strange noises, or is driving up your electric bill, it’s time to call in the pros. Serving Santa Fe, Española, Los Alamos, and beyond, we’re proud to be the go-to for AC repairs that last. Whether it’s a minor fix or a full system overhaul, you can trust our team to get it done right.
Need AC Help Now?
Santa Fe Heating and Cooling, LLC is ready to help—whether it’s a refrigerant recharge, a new capacitor, or just a little advice. Reach out today and let’s keep your home cool and stress-free.
