Common summer HVAC issues when the temperatures rise in Arkansas, your HVAC system becomes the most important appliance in your home. Unfortunately, summer heat puts extra stress on your cooling system—especially if it hasn’t been serviced recently. Without proper maintenance, your AC unit is vulnerable to sudden breakdowns, poor performance, and sky-high utility bills.
In this guide, we’ll break down the most common summer HVAC issues and how to prevent them so you can stay cool and comfortable all season long. These tips come straight from the trusted professionals at Riverside Comfort Care, proudly serving Fort Smith, Van Buren, Greenwood, Alma, and surrounding areas.
1. Frozen Evaporator Coils
The issue: Frozen coils usually result from restricted airflow or low refrigerant levels. When this happens, your system’s ability to cool your home is severely diminished. You might notice warm air blowing from the vents or see visible ice build-up on the indoor unit.
How to prevent it:
- Change your air filter regularly (every 30–60 days or as needed).
- Schedule annual HVAC maintenance, especially before summer begins.
- Make sure your return and supply vents are not blocked by furniture, rugs, or other obstructions.
- Keep interior doors open to allow proper circulation.
Neglecting this issue can cause compressor damage and lead to costly repairs. That’s why early prevention is key.
2. Dirty or Clogged Air Filters
The issue: One of the most common summer HVAC issues is a clogged air filter. Air filters trap dust, pollen, and allergens to keep your home air clean, but when they’re dirty, they restrict airflow. That forces your HVAC system to work harder, increasing wear and tear.
How to prevent it:
- Check your air filter every month during summer when usage is high.
- Upgrade to a HEPA or MERV-rated filter for improved filtration.
- Set calendar reminders to stay on schedule with filter changes.
Changing your filter is one of the easiest and most cost-effective ways to prevent breakdowns and improve energy efficiency.
3. Low Refrigerant Levels
The issue: Refrigerant is what absorbs heat from your indoor air and releases it outside. When refrigerant levels drop—usually due to leaks—your AC won’t cool properly. Prolonged low refrigerant can burn out your compressor, which is one of the most expensive components to replace.
How to prevent it:
- Have a technician inspect refrigerant levels before summer starts.
- If your system is blowing warm air or hissing, request leak detection immediately.
- Don’t try to add refrigerant yourself—this requires professional equipment and EPA certification.
Catch leaks early to avoid extensive damage and poor performance.
4. Thermostat Malfunctions
The issue: Your thermostat acts as the brain of your HVAC system. If it’s not working correctly, your air conditioner may short-cycle (turn on and off rapidly), fail to turn on, or maintain the wrong temperature.
How to prevent it:
- Upgrade to a smart thermostat for better reliability, remote access, and energy savings.
- Replace batteries at least once a year if using a battery-powered unit.
- Keep thermostats out of direct sunlight or heat-producing appliances to avoid false readings.
Proper thermostat placement and upkeep can help ensure accurate comfort control throughout the home.
5. Dirty Condenser Coils
The issue: Your outdoor condenser coils release the heat your AC removes from your home. When they get dirty from grass clippings, pollen, dust, or grime, the system can’t cool efficiently and may overheat.
How to prevent it:
- Spray the coils gently with a garden hose at the beginning of each season (never use high pressure).
- Have your coils professionally cleaned during a seasonal tune-up.
- Maintain a clear 2–3 foot perimeter around the outdoor unit.
A clean condenser coil ensures faster, more efficient cooling and helps prevent system failure during heatwaves.
6. Electrical Component Failure
The issue: Over time, the electrical components in your HVAC system—such as capacitors, relays, and contactors—wear out. During summer, heavy usage accelerates this wear, often resulting in system shutdowns or failed startups.
How to prevent it:
- Have an HVAC technician perform a full electrical inspection during summer maintenance.
- Don’t ignore buzzing noises, failed startups, or tripped breakers.
These parts are relatively inexpensive to replace—but costly to ignore.
7. Weak Airflow or Hot Spots
The issue: Weak airflow, uneven temperatures, or hot spots in your home can point to a range of issues, from duct leaks and blocked vents to a failing blower motor or clogged filters.
How to prevent it:
- Have your ductwork inspected for leaks or poor insulation.
- Keep all vents open and unblocked.
- Consider a zoning system or booster fans for larger homes.
- Install ceiling fans to help with circulation.
Addressing airflow problems early prevents long-term strain on your HVAC system.
Professional Help Prevents Bigger Problems
Preventing the most common summer HVAC issues starts with preparation. Regular maintenance checks can catch small problems before they become major emergencies. At Riverside Comfort Care, we offer affordable seasonal tune-ups and maintenance plans to keep your air conditioner in peak condition.
Our comprehensive summer inspection includes:
- Coil cleaning
- Refrigerant check
- Electrical testing
- Filter replacement
- Thermostat calibration
- Airflow testing
If you’re located in Fort Smith, Van Buren, Greenwood, Alma, or the surrounding River Valley area, our local technicians are ready to help you stay cool this summer.
Helpful Resources
- ENERGY STAR Cooling Tips
- U.S. Department of Energy HVAC Maintenance Guide
- HVAC Filters and Air Quality – CDC
Schedule Your Summer Tune-Up Today
📞 Call Riverside Comfort Care at (479) 123-4567
🌐 Or book online
Don’t wait for a breakdown. Prevent the most common summer HVAC issues with Riverside Comfort Care—your local cooling experts in Fort Smith, Van Buren, Greenwood, and beyond. Keep your home comfortable all summer long with our reliable, local HVAC service.
