We’ve all been there. You set the thermostat to a crisp 22°C, but the air coming out of the vents feels like a lukewarm breeze. In a place where summer doesn’t play around, a failing AC isn’t just an inconvenience—it’s an emergency.
Before you panic-search for a replacement, let’s do some detective work. At BBH Builds, we’ve seen it all. Here are the 7 most common clues that explain why your home feels more like a sauna than a sanctuary.
1. The “Ghost” Airflow (Dirty Filters)
If your AC is running but you can barely feel air coming out of the vents, check your filters. A clogged filter acts like a wall, stopping cool air in its tracks.
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The Fix: Change your filters every 1–3 months. It’s the cheapest “repair” you’ll ever make.
2. The Ice Block Mystery
It sounds counterintuitive, but if your AC stops cooling, look at the outdoor unit. Do you see ice on the copper lines? Frozen coils usually mean restricted airflow or low refrigerant.
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The Clue: If you see ice, turn the system off immediately to let it thaw before calling a pro.
3. The Click of Death (Electrical Issues)
Do you hear a “click” when the AC tries to start, but the fan never kicks in? This is often a blown capacitor—a small part that gives the motor the “jumpstart” it needs.
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The Warning: This is high-voltage territory. Don’t poke around in the electrical panel yourself!
4. Mysterious Puddles
If you find water pooling around your indoor unit, your condensate drain line is likely clogged. When the water has nowhere to go, many modern systems will shut down entirely to prevent floor damage.
5. The “Old Age” Ache
Is your unit more than 10–12 years old? Construction standards have evolved, and older units simply struggle to keep up with modern efficiency demands. If it’s constantly running but never reaching the target temp, it might simply be at the end of its lifespan.
6. The Leaking Secret (Low Refrigerant)
Your AC doesn’t “consume” refrigerant like a car consumes gas. If it’s low, you have a leak. Adding more “gas” is just a Band-Aid; finding the leak is the real cure.
7. Ductwork Disasters
Sometimes the AC is fine, but the “delivery system” is broken. Leaky or uninsulated ducts in your attic can lose up to 30% of your cooling before it ever reaches your bedroom.
Don’t Sweat It—Let BBH Builds Take a Look
Diagnostic “clues” are great, but some jobs require the heavy lifting of a professional team. Whether it’s a quick tune-up or a full system integration for your new build, we ensure your home stays at the perfect temperature all year long.
