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The Top 5 Summer AC Problems and How to Prevent Them

A Howell Township Homeowner’s Guide to Staying Cool and Worry-Free

When the summer heat sets in, having a dependable air conditioning system is essential for comfort in Howell Township, NJ. But during the hottest months of the year, AC systems are under serious stress—especially if they’re older, poorly maintained, or overworked. Unfortunately, that means cooling systems often break down at the worst possible time.

At ITAK Heating & Cooling, we work with homeowners across Howell Township to keep their air conditioners running smoothly all summer long. Whether you live near Echo Lake or off Route 9, knowing the most common AC issues—and how to prevent them—can save you money, reduce downtime, and extend the life of your HVAC system.

Let’s dive into the top five summer AC problems and the practical steps you can take to avoid them.


1. Refrigerant Leaks

The problem: Refrigerant is the chemical your AC uses to cool air. When your system is low on refrigerant, it can’t absorb heat efficiently, which leads to poor cooling, longer run times, and potential damage to the compressor.

How to spot it:

  • Warm air blowing from vents

  • Ice forming on the indoor or outdoor coil

  • Hissing or bubbling noises

  • Higher energy bills with no change in thermostat settings

How to prevent it:
Refrigerant leaks often develop slowly. The best way to catch them early is through seasonal maintenance. During a professional tune-up, technicians from ITAK Heating & Cooling can test refrigerant levels and inspect for leaks. If your system is older and uses phased-out R-22 refrigerant, it might be time to consider an upgrade to a modern, eco-friendly unit.


2. Frozen Evaporator Coils

The problem: A frozen coil may sound like it’s keeping your home cool, but it actually prevents your system from working properly. Frozen evaporator coils are often the result of poor airflow—usually caused by dirty air filters or clogged return ducts.

How to spot it:

  • Visible ice buildup on indoor coils or refrigerant lines

  • Poor airflow from vents

  • The system running but not cooling the home

  • Water puddling near your indoor unit as the ice melts

How to prevent it:

  • Change or clean air filters every 30 to 60 days, especially during summer.

  • Make sure supply and return vents aren’t blocked by furniture or rugs.

  • Have your evaporator coil cleaned during annual AC maintenance.

  • Don’t run your AC when it’s too cold outside (below 60°F), which can lead to freezing.

Residents in Howell Township with high tree pollen and dust levels may need to check filters more frequently due to local air quality.


3. Electrical Issues or AC Won’t Turn On

The problem: If your AC suddenly stops working, the issue might be electrical. This includes problems with the thermostat, capacitor, contactor, or circuit breakers. Power surges—especially after thunderstorms, which are common in central New Jersey—can also damage system components.

How to spot it:

  • AC won’t turn on at all

  • System keeps tripping the breaker

  • Buzzing or humming from the outdoor unit

  • Inconsistent system starts or stops

How to prevent it:

  • Have an HVAC technician inspect the capacitor and electrical connections annually.

  • Install a surge protector for your HVAC system.

  • Make sure your thermostat batteries are fresh and settings are correct.

  • Avoid overloading circuits with other high-power appliances on hot days.

If your AC shuts down during a heatwave in Howell Township, ITAK Heating & Cooling offers fast, professional service to get your system back online.


4. Clogged Condensate Drain Line

The problem: Your AC system not only cools the air but also removes humidity. That moisture drains away through a condensate line. Over time, algae, mold, and debris can clog the line, causing water to back up and potentially damage your home or the unit itself.

How to spot it:

  • Water pooling near the indoor unit or dripping from ceiling vents

  • Musty odors near the unit

  • AC shutting off unexpectedly due to triggered safety switch

How to prevent it:

  • Have your condensate line flushed during routine HVAC maintenance.

  • Ask your technician to install a float switch to automatically shut down the system if a clog is detected.

  • Consider pouring a small amount of distilled vinegar into the drain line every few months to help prevent algae buildup.

With Howell Township’s summer humidity levels, this is one of the most common issues we see—and one of the easiest to prevent.


5. Short Cycling

The problem: Short cycling occurs when your AC turns on and off too frequently, which prevents proper cooling and puts unnecessary wear on your system. This may result from an oversized unit, dirty filters, refrigerant issues, or thermostat malfunctions.

How to spot it:

  • System turns on and off in less than 10-minute intervals

  • Uneven temperatures throughout the home

  • Higher-than-usual utility bills

  • Premature system wear and tear

How to prevent it:

  • Have your AC properly sized when installed—bigger is not always better.

  • Schedule maintenance to rule out airflow or refrigerant issues.

  • Keep the thermostat away from heat sources or direct sunlight, which may cause it to misread the temperature.

  • Replace faulty thermostats promptly with a model compatible with your system.

Homeowners in Howell Township upgrading older systems should consult a licensed HVAC contractor like ITAK Heating & Cooling to ensure proper sizing and installation.


Keeping Cool in Howell Township: Prevention Is the Best Protection

Many common AC problems during the summer can be prevented with a mix of good habits and regular professional care. Whether you live in Ramtown, Ardena, or near Allaire State Park, it’s always better to catch small issues before they turn into expensive repairs—or a full system breakdown during the July heat.

Tips to stay ahead of AC problems in Howell Township:

  • Schedule professional AC maintenance every spring.

  • Replace air filters regularly.

  • Don’t ignore unusual sounds, smells, or spikes in your utility bill.

  • Keep outdoor units free from debris and trimmed foliage.

  • Use a programmable thermostat to reduce unnecessary wear.


Need a Tune-Up or Help with an AC Issue?

At ITAK Heating & Cooling, we’ve been helping Howell Township residents beat the heat for years with reliable HVAC services tailored to local needs. Whether you’re overdue for maintenance or dealing with an unexpected AC problem, our experienced technicians are here to keep your system running efficiently and your home comfortable all summer long.