In Turlock, Modesto, and across California’s Central Valley, air conditioners work overtime during our long, hot summers. Your cooling system is vital for staying comfortable, but it’s also under a lot of stress—especially when temperatures soar. That’s why it’s not uncommon for air conditioners to experience wear and tear or sudden breakdowns.
At Wally Falke’s Heating & Air Conditioning, we’ve been helping local families stay cool for over 50 years. We know the warning signs and most frequent A/C issues homeowners face. In this blog, we’ll break down the most common A/C repairs, how to spot the early signs of trouble, and how to keep your cooling system running efficiently all season long.
1. Refrigerant Leaks
Refrigerant is essential for cooling your home. It absorbs heat from inside your home and releases it outdoors. But when there’s a leak in the refrigerant line, your system can’t do its job properly. If left unresolved, it can cause permanent damage to your compressor—the most expensive component in your system.
Signs of a refrigerant leak:
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Warm air blowing from your vents
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Ice forming on the evaporator coils
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Hissing or bubbling sounds near the unit
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Increased energy bills
If you suspect a refrigerant issue, don’t wait. Handling refrigerants requires EPA certification. Our trained technicians can locate the leak, repair it, and recharge your system with the correct amount of refrigerant to restore comfort to your home.
2. Dirty or Clogged Air Filters
One of the simplest ways to protect your air conditioner is by changing your air filter regularly. Filters trap dust, pet dander, pollen, and other particles to keep your air clean. But over time, they get clogged—and that restricts airflow.
What happens when your filter is dirty:
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Your system has to work harder, increasing wear and tear
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Airflow becomes weak or uneven
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Your cooling bills start to rise
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Indoor air quality worsens
We recommend checking your filter every month during the summer and replacing it at least every 1–3 months depending on usage, pets, and allergies.
3. Faulty Electrical Components
Air conditioners are complex systems with many electrical parts working together. Over time, components like capacitors, contactors, and relays can wear out, especially in high-heat conditions.
Common electrical problems include:
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A/C won’t turn on or randomly shuts off
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Clicking or buzzing sounds during startup
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Frequent tripping of the circuit breaker
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A/C turns on but doesn’t blow cold air
These issues can quickly escalate, which is why it’s important to call a licensed HVAC technician. At Wally Falke’s, we use advanced diagnostic tools to pinpoint electrical faults and repair them safely and effectively.
4. Broken or Worn-Out Fan Motors
Your air conditioning system has two main fans: the blower fan inside your home that circulates cool air, and the condenser fan outside that releases heat. If either fan motor fails, your system can’t function properly.
Signs your fan motor may need repair:
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Weak or no airflow from your vents
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Loud rattling, humming, or screeching noises
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The outdoor unit runs but the indoor fan doesn’t
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The system overheats or shuts off unexpectedly
Motor issues often start small but can quickly lead to major system failure. A timely repair can prevent costly damage and keep your home cool.
5. Frozen Evaporator Coils
Evaporator coils are located inside your air handler and play a key role in absorbing heat. But if airflow is restricted or refrigerant levels are low, these coils can freeze. This stops your system from cooling altogether.
Symptoms of frozen coils include:
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Reduced cooling or warm air from vents
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Ice visible on the indoor unit
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Water leaking around the system (from melting ice)
If you see ice or water around your indoor unit, turn off your system and let it thaw. Check the air filter first—this is often the culprit. If freezing continues, call our team to investigate further and ensure your system isn’t suffering from a deeper issue.
Why Do These A/C Repairs Happen?
Air conditioners are built to last, but like any mechanical system, they need regular care. Most common repairs stem from a lack of maintenance. Dirt buildup, worn-out parts, and electrical issues become much more likely when your system isn’t checked regularly.
That’s why we always recommend seasonal A/C maintenance—ideally in the spring before the summer heat kicks in. A tune-up from Wally Falke’s Heating & Air Conditioning includes a full system inspection, coil cleaning, electrical testing, refrigerant level checks, and more.
Stay Ahead of Repairs with Preventative Maintenance
Here in the Central Valley, your air conditioner has a big job to do. But with routine maintenance and fast repairs when issues arise, your system can deliver reliable comfort for years to come.
Benefits of regular A/C maintenance:
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Lower energy bills
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Fewer emergency repairs
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Better indoor air quality
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Longer system lifespan
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More consistent home comfort
Don’t wait until your system breaks down on a 100-degree day—schedule your A/C maintenance or repair service with Wally Falke’s today. We proudly serve homeowners in Turlock, Modesto, Merced, and beyond.
Call now or schedule online to keep your cooling system in top shape. When it comes to your home’s comfort, trust the experts at Wally Falke’s Heating & Air Conditioning—we’ve been keeping Central Valley homes cool since 1969.
