Common HVAC Problems in Summer and How to Fix Them at Love and Care Heating and Air
When summer temperatures in Sacramento and the surrounding areas start climbing into the 90s and above, your HVAC system becomes more than just a luxury—it’s a necessity. But it’s also the time of year when your AC is under the most stress, which means issues can arise just when you need cooling the most.
At Love and Care Heating and Air, we see many of the same HVAC problems every summer, and the good news is that many of them can be identified early—or even fixed yourself. Below, we’ve put together a list of common summer HVAC problems and how to address them before they become full-blown emergencies.
1. AC Not Blowing Cold Air
The Problem:
Your air conditioner turns on, but the air coming out of the vents is warm or not as cold as it should be.
Possible Causes:
Dirty air filter restricting airflow
Low refrigerant levels
Frozen evaporator coil
Thermostat settings or malfunctions
How to Fix It:
First, check and replace your air filter if it’s dirty.
Make sure the thermostat is set to “cool” and that the temperature is properly set.
If it still isn’t working, you may have a refrigerant leak or a frozen coil—both of which require professional repair. Give Love and Care Heating and Air a call to inspect and recharge your system if needed.
2. AC Running Constantly
The Problem:
Your AC doesn’t seem to shut off, running all day without a break. This can lead to higher energy bills and system wear.
Possible Causes:
Dirty condenser coils
Leaky ductwork
Incorrect thermostat settings
Undersized AC unit for your home
How to Fix It:
Clean the outdoor condenser unit—gently hose it down and clear any debris.
Check your thermostat settings and consider raising the temperature by a few degrees.
If the issue persists, your system might be improperly sized or losing cool air through leaks. Our team can evaluate your HVAC system and your home’s needs to find a lasting solution.
3. Uneven Cooling or Hot Spots in the Home
The Problem:
Some rooms in your home are cool and comfortable, while others feel like a sauna.
Possible Causes:
Blocked or closed vents
Poor insulation or sun exposure in certain rooms
Ductwork issues
How to Fix It:
Make sure all supply and return vents are open and unblocked.
Consider using zoned cooling or adding window treatments in rooms that get heavy sun exposure.
If the problem continues, we recommend a duct inspection to identify leaks or blockages.
4. Strange Noises from the HVAC System
The Problem:
You hear grinding, banging, squealing, or rattling when your AC runs. This is more than just annoying—it could indicate a serious issue.
Possible Causes:
Loose parts or hardware
Motor or blower issues
Debris inside the outdoor unit
How to Fix It:
Turn off the unit and visually inspect the outdoor condenser for any debris or visible damage.
If the noise continues, don’t ignore it. Call our technicians immediately. Continuing to run the unit can cause further damage and more costly repairs.
5. Water Leaks or Moisture Around the Unit
The Problem:
You notice water pooling around the indoor AC unit or signs of moisture damage nearby.
Possible Causes:
Clogged condensate drain line
Frozen evaporator coils melting
Faulty or cracked drain pan
How to Fix It:
Try clearing the drain line with a wet/dry vacuum.
Check the air filter—if it’s dirty, it could be causing coil freezing.
If you’re still seeing moisture, call Love and Care Heating and Air for a professional cleaning and inspection.
6. Unresponsive Thermostat
The Problem:
Your thermostat screen is blank, doesn’t respond to changes, or doesn’t seem to control the temperature properly.
Possible Causes:
Dead batteries (for battery-operated models)
Wiring issues
Outdated or faulty thermostat
How to Fix It:
Replace the batteries and reset the thermostat.
If the problem persists, consider upgrading to a smart thermostat for better energy efficiency and control. Our team installs and configures smart systems customized to your lifestyle.
7. Tripped Breakers or Electrical Issues
The Problem:
Your AC trips the circuit breaker repeatedly or won’t turn on at all.
Possible Causes:
Overloaded circuit
Shorted electrical components
Dirty or damaged compressor
How to Fix It:
Reset the breaker once. If it trips again, don’t keep resetting it—this is a sign of a deeper issue.
Call our technicians for a safety inspection to diagnose the electrical problem and prevent further risk.
Stay Cool with Expert Help from Love and Care Heating and Air
Summer should be about BBQs, pool days, and time with family—not HVAC headaches. The best way to avoid summer AC problems is with preventative maintenance, professional tune-ups, and calling for help at the first sign of trouble.
At Love and Care Heating and Air, we treat every customer like family. Whether you need a quick repair, system inspection, or full HVAC replacement, we’re here to help you stay cool, comfortable, and stress-free all season long.