When your air conditioner stops working the way it should, the problem isn’t always with the cooling components—sometimes it’s the electrical system that’s to blame. Modern AC units rely on a complex network of wires, connections, and controls to operate safely and efficiently. At Hometown Heating and Air Conditioning, we’ve helped countless homeowners get their cooling back on track by pinpointing and electrical issues and fixing them with air conditioner repair before they cause bigger problems.
Capacitor Failures
Capacitors store and release the energy needed to start your AC’s compressor and fan motors. Over time, heat, electrical surges, and normal wear can cause them to weaken or fail. Signs of a bad capacitor include:
- AC not starting at all
- A humming noise without the fan turning on
- Short cycling (turning on and off rapidly)
Replacing a capacitor is a job for a trained professional, as it involves high-voltage components that can be dangerous without proper handling.
Faulty Contactors
A contactor is essentially a switch that controls the flow of electricity to your AC’s compressor and fan motors. When the thermostat calls for cooling, the contactor engages. If it becomes pitted or worn, it can stick open or closed, preventing the AC from running properly. Our technicians can quickly diagnose and replace a bad contactor to restore normal operation.
Loose or Damaged Wiring
Vibration, heat, and age can loosen wiring connections inside your air conditioner or the breaker panel. Damaged insulation or corroded wires can cause intermittent operation, tripped breakers, or even dangerous arcing. Regular maintenance inspections help catch these issues early so they don’t lead to sudden breakdowns.
Tripped Circuit Breakers
If your AC frequently trips the breaker, it’s a sign of an electrical overload or short circuit. While it might be tempting to just reset the breaker and move on, repeated trips indicate a problem that needs professional attention. Our team can identify whether the issue stems from a faulty motor, loose wiring, or another electrical fault.
Blown Fuses
Some air conditioning systems use fuses in the disconnect box near the outdoor unit. A blown fuse can stop your AC from running, but the bigger concern is why it blew in the first place. Overheating components, electrical surges, or mechanical strain can all lead to fuse failures. Replacing the fuse without addressing the root cause will only lead to repeat problems.
Thermostat and Control Board Issues
Your thermostat and AC control board work together to regulate temperature and coordinate the system’s functions. Faulty sensors, damaged circuits, or power supply issues can prevent them from sending the correct signals. This can lead to problems such as the AC not starting, running constantly, or shutting down unexpectedly.
If your air conditioner isn’t running right—or has stopped working altogether—our team is ready to help. We provide prompt, professional air conditioner in repair Martinez and the surrounding communities.
At Hometown Heating and Air Conditioning, Your Comfort Is Our Business!