An outside unit that hums while the fan stays still is the classic summer service call in San Francisco, CA, and the cause is usually a failed run capacitor. That inexpensive component starts the compressor and fan, fades for years without complaint, and then quits under peak load. It is far from the only suspect, though. Contactors pit and stop passing clean power, condenser fan bearings dry out, small refrigerant leaks drain away cooling capacity, and evaporator coils ice over when a clogged filter strangles airflow.
For winter breakdowns, see Furnace Repair.
When to Call for AC Repair in San Francisco
The sooner you notice these red flags, the easier and cheaper the fix. Watch for these telltale signs:
- Clicking or humming outside with no fan movement
- An AC that turns on and off every few minutes but never cools down the house
- A hiss or gurgle from the lines, a common sign of leaking refrigerant
- Vents blowing air that is barely cooler than the room
- Ice on the refrigerant lines or a frozen indoor coil
- Water leaking around the indoor unit or from the ceiling below it
- A burning smell or repeated breaker trips when the AC starts
- Higher summer bills even though the house still feels warm and humid
Early Action Saves Money
Left unchecked, even a small fault or temperature swing often signals a system working its way toward a breakdown. If you notice any of these signs, call (415) 234-5360 for a prompt inspection.
