When hot air becomes prevalent, it’s essential to have a functioning air conditioner, especially in your garage where your car may be parked. A garage air conditioner is designed to keep your garage cool and comfortable, and it’s important to troubleshoot any issues that may arise to avoid potential breakdowns.
DIY troubleshooting can be a great way to save money on costly repairs and improve the overall performance of your garage ac unit. It’s also an opportunity to learn more about how your air conditioner works and become more self-sufficient.
In this blog post, we’ll discuss common garage air conditioner issues, provide step-by-step instructions on how to troubleshoot them, and offer additional tips for maintaining and cleaning your unit. We’ll also discuss when to call a professional for help.
Towards the end, you’ll already have the knowledge and confidence to tackle garage air conditioner issues on your own and keep your unit running smoothly throughout the year.
Let’s get started.
Common Garage Air Conditioner Issues
Throughout their lifespan, garage air conditioners will have several issues that can affect their performance and longevity. Here are some of the most common issues you may encounter and the solutions for each:
Clogged Air Filter
Over time, the air filter in your garage air conditioner can become clogged with dirt and debris, reducing airflow and causing the unit to work harder than it needs to.
Symptoms
Reduced cooling efficiency, increased energy bills, and unusual noises.
Recommended Solution
To troubleshoot this issue, turn off the power to the unit and remove the air filter. Clean the filter with water and mild detergent, or replace it with a new one.
Refrigerant Leaks
Refrigerant leaks can cause your garage air conditioner to malfunction and stop cooling effectively.
Symptoms
Warm air blowing out of the unit, ice buildup on the evaporator coil, and hissing or bubbling sounds.
Recommended Solution
A refrigerant leak is a more complex issue and requires a professional HVAC system technician to diagnose and fix the problem.
Electrical Problems
Electrical problems can cause the unit to stop working entirely or intermittently.
Symptoms
The unit won’t turn on or turns off randomly during operation.
Recommended Solution
Check the circuit breaker or fuse box to ensure there’s no tripped circuit. If that doesn’t solve the issue, call a professional to inspect and repair any electrical problems.
Dirty Coils
Dirty coils can reduce the cooling efficiency of your garage air conditioner, forcing the unit to work harder than necessary.
Symptoms
Reduced cooling efficiency, increased energy bills, and unusual noises.
Recommended Solution
Turn off the power to the unit and clean the HVAC coils using a soft-bristled brush or a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment.
Faulty Thermostat
A faulty thermostat can prevent your garage air conditioner from turning on or off properly.
Symptoms
The unit won’t turn on, turn off, or maintain a consistent temperature.
Recommended Solution
Check the thermostat’s batteries and settings. If that doesn’t solve the issue, replace the thermostat with a new one.
Faulty Fan Motor
The fan motor in your garage air conditioner helps to circulate cool air throughout the unit. When the fan motor is faulty, it can cause the unit to overheat and shut down.
Symptoms
The unit won’t turn on, unusual noises, or reduced cooling efficiency.
Recommended Solution
Turn off the power to the unit and check the fan motor for any signs of wear or damage. If you notice any issues, contact a professional HVAC technician to replace the fan motor.
Water Leakage
Water leakage can occur when there’s a clogged drain line or a malfunctioning condensate pump.
Symptoms
Water pooling around the unit or dripping from the unit.
Recommended Solution
Turn off the power to the unit and check the drain line and condensate pump for any clogs or damage. If you notice any issues, contact a professional HVAC technician to repair or replace the faulty components.
Frozen Evaporator Coil
The evaporator coil in your garage air conditioner can freeze when there’s a lack of airflow or refrigerant leaks.
Symptoms
Reduced cooling efficiency, warm air blowing out of the unit, and ice buildup on the evaporator coil.
Recommended Solution
Turn off the power to the unit and let the ice melt. Then, clean the air filter and check for any refrigerant leaks. If you can’t find any leaks, call a professional HVAC technician to diagnose and fix the problem.
By understanding these garage air conditioner issues and their symptoms, you can troubleshoot problems before they worsen and avoid costly repairs.
Additional Tips for Your Garage Air Conditioner
Maintaining and troubleshooting your garage air conditioners regularly can help prolong their lifespan and prevent costly repairs. Here are some additional tips and tricks for keeping your unit running smoothly:
Schedule Regular Maintenance
Schedule an annual maintenance appointment with a professional HVAC technician to inspect and clean the unit, check for any leaks, and ensure it runs efficiently.
Keep the Area Around the Unit Clean
Clear any debris, dust, or leaves around the outdoor unit. This ensures proper airflow and helps to prevent clogging of the condenser coil.
Check the Ductwork
Check the ductwork for any leaks, gaps, or damage. If you notice any issues, contact a professional to repair or replace the ductwork.
Use a Programmable Thermostat
A programmable thermostat can help you save energy and reduce costs by automatically adjusting the temperature when you’re away from home.
Replace Air Filters
Replace the air filter every one to three months, depending on usage, to ensure proper airflow and cooling efficiency.
Keep the Unit Level
Ensure the unit is level, as an unlevel unit can cause water leakage and other issues.
Regular maintenance and cleaning are essential for ensuring your garage air conditioners run smoothly and efficiently. It’s important to clean the unit and replace the air filter regularly to ensure proper airflow and cooling efficiency. Additionally, scheduling an annual maintenance appointment with a professional HVAC technician can help to identify and prevent potential issues before they worsen.
By following these tips, you can keep your garage air conditioning system running smoothly and efficiently for years to come.
When to Call a Professional
While DIY maintenance and troubleshooting can help you fix many common issues with your garage air conditioner, there are instances where it’s best to call a professional HVAC technician. Here are some scenarios where DIY troubleshooting may not be enough, and it’s time to call in the pros:
Electrical Issues
If you have an electrical wiring or circuitry issue, it’s best to call a professional HVAC technician to inspect and repair the problem. Electrical issues can be dangerous and should be handled by a trained professional.
Refrigerant Leaks
It’s also important to call a professional HVAC technician if you suspect a freon leak. Refrigerant leaks can be dangerous and cause serious health problems if improperly handled.
Motor Issues
If you have an issue with the fan motor, compressor motor, or any other motor component, it’s best to call a professional HVAC technician to diagnose and repair the problem.
Strange Noises
If your garage air conditioner is making unusual or loud noises, it’s best to call a professional HVAC technician to inspect and diagnose the problem. Strange noises can indicate a serious issue with the unit and should be addressed promptly.
Warranty
If your garage air conditioner is still under warranty, it’s best to call a professional HVAC technician to inspect and repair the problem. Attempting DIY repairs can void the warranty and result in costly repairs.
In summary, DIY troubleshooting can help you fix many common issues with your garage air conditioner. However, there are instances where it’s best to call a professional HVAC technician to inspect and repair the problem. If you’re unsure about a problem or don’t have the necessary tools or knowledge to fix it, it’s always best to call a professional.
Bottomline
Garage air conditioners are essential for keeping your garage door and space comfortable during hot and humid weather. However, like any other appliance, they can encounter issues from time to time. By understanding the most common issues and knowing how to troubleshoot them, you can save time and money on repairs.
While DIY troubleshooting is a handy skill to have, it’s always best to call a professional HVAC technician if you’re unsure about a problem or don’t have the necessary tools or knowledge to fix it.
If you require professional help with your garage air conditioner, please don’t hesitate to contact us. Our team of expert technicians at Go Spartan Air is always ready to help you with any issues you may encounter.
FREQUENTLY-ASKED QUESTIONS
Does a Garage Need an Air Conditioner?
It depends on how you use your garage. An air conditioner can be essential if you use your garage as a workspace or a storage area for heat-sensitive items. However, if you only use your garage for parking your car, an air conditioner may not be necessary. Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide if an air conditioner is necessary for your garage based on your needs and preferences.
What are the Benefits of a Garage AC?
The best garage air conditioners can provide a comfortable and cool workspace, improve air quality, and prevent damage to heat-sensitive items stored in your garage. It can also help prevent mold and mildew growth in humid climates.
What Type of AC is Best for the Garage?
The type of AC that’s best for your garage depends on your needs and budget. Some common types of AC units for garages include garage window air conditioners, mini-split systems, and portable air conditioner units.
A window air conditioner is a popular option for smaller garages and is relatively easy to install. Mini-split systems are more expensive but offer better cooling efficiency and can be a good option for larger garages. Portable air conditioners are also an option and can be moved around as needed.
It’s important to consult with an HVAC professional to determine the best type of AC unit for your garage based on your specific needs and budget.
