AC Repair: Common Breakdowns and What to Check First During High Temperatures

At Nevada Heating, we know that Reno, Nevada is no stranger to sweltering summer heat. After all, daytime temperatures can often climb over 90°F regularly in July and August, with earlier summer and late fall months often coming close. When the mercury rises, air conditioners work overtime—and unfortunately, that’s when they’re most likely to break down.

High Temperatures Increase the Chance of AC Failures

It’s worth noting that the reason air conditioning systems may fail during a heat wave is because most systems are designed to operate within a certain range of environmental conditions. In extreme heat, several components are pushed to their limits. That means the longer a unit runs without a break, the more wear and tear accumulates, making it more likely that something will fail. Our expert team at Nevada Heating know that on top of that, the dusty and arid conditions most common in the Reno area can clog filters and coils, which further strains your AC system as well as reducing efficiency.

Most Common Signs of an Air Conditioner Breakdown

If problems should occur, it’s key to address them as quickly as possible. Perhaps your system is making an unusual sound, or there’s warm air instead of cold coming from your vents. Or maybe you see signs of leaking water, or of an unusual smell coming from your system.

So, what causes air conditioner breakdown?

Compressor Failure

The compressor is the heart of your AC system. It circulates refrigerant and facilitates heat exchange. High temperatures often force the compressor to work harder, increasing the risk of overheating and electrical failure. Signs of a failing compressor include loud noises coming from your unit, frequent circuit breaker tripping, or your system may start blowing warm air.

Capacitor Burnout

Start and run capacitors are what provide the electricity to power the fan and compressor. In high heat, capacitors can overheat and fail, which means the AC unit may not start at all. A humming sound or a unit that tries to start but fails may indicate capacitor issues.

Frozen Evaporator Coils

Many people think that evaporator coils couldn’t possibly freeze when the weather is hot, but believe it or not, this is a common problem. Condensation can freeze on your evaporator coils and put a stop to cooling for a variety of reasons, such as restricted air flow, dirty filters, or low refrigerant levels. If you have warm air blowing from your vents or visible ice buildup on your unit, this may be why.

Clogged Air Filters

Here’s an easy one: with Reno’s dusty air and pollen, air filters clog quickly—especially during wildfire season. A clogged filter reduces airflow, forcing your AC to work harder, increasing the risk of overheating and breakdowns. The good news is, this is an easy issue to check and address yourself by changing your filters regularly.

Thermostat Malfunction

If your AC unit won’t turn on or keeps cycling on and off, the problem may be your thermostat rather than your AC itself. Old or faulty thermostats can misread indoor temperatures, preventing your AC system from cooling consistently or accurately.  

Refrigerant Leaks

A refrigerant leak typically lowers levels of refrigerant and reduces your AC’s cooling ability. A leak can even damage the compressor over time. You may hear hissing sounds near the unit, experience longer cooling cycles, or find warm air instead of cool coming from vents.

What to Check First If Your AC Breaks Down

While our team of professionals at Nevada Heating are always ready to help, if an AC problem occurs, there are some basic checks you can easily do yourself.

1. Check the Thermostat Settings
   Make sure your thermostat is set to “cool” and the temperature is set lower than the room temperature. If your thermostat requires batteries, try replacing them. Sometimes the problem can be as simple as an outdated battery. 
2. Inspect the Circuit Breaker
   A power surge or overload can trip the breaker. A quick reset can help you determine whether your air conditioner will turn on again. However, even if it does, if the circuit breaker trips again right away this could be the sign of a bigger electrical issue.
3. Replace or Clean the Air Filter
   If your airflow seems weak or your AC isn’t cooling effectively, a dirty air filter could be to blame. A simple replacement can improve your AC’s ability to operate effectively and prevent breakdowns. It’s always a good idea to replace your filter every few months
4. Clear Debris Around the Outdoor Unit
   Leaves, dirt, or debris can restrict airflow and cause the system to overheat. It’s a good idea to clear at least two feet of space around the unit to keep your unit unobstructed and performing well.
5. Listen for Unusual Noises
   Hearing unusual sounds can help you diagnose AC issues. For example, a humming sound could indicate a failed capacitor, while a loud clank could mean a broken fan blade or something simple such as a loose component.
6. Look for Ice Build-Up
   If you notice ice on your system’s coils or refrigerant lines, turn your unit off. Let it fully thaw before you restart it. If ice buildup reoccurs, professional service is called for.

When to Call the Nevada Heating Pros

Preventative maintenance and service is important to keep your AC operating well and avoid costly repairs and breakdowns.

Our Comfort Care Plus maintenance program includes air conditioner tune-up and inspection, to help you avoid breakdowns during mid-summer heat, keeping your AC running efficiently by checking refrigerant levels, testing capacitors, cleaning coils, and even inspecting your thermostat and replacing filters.

And if a problem does occur, at Nevada Heating, our experienced professionals are here 24/7, keeping things cool throughout the greater Reno and Sparks areas. In Reno’s harsh summer climate, an AC breakdown can feel like a catastrophe, but knowing what parts of your system may commonly fail in extreme heat can help you respond quickly. When you need help, we’re ready and waiting to help you keep your home cool when it matters most.