May 27, 2025
Summer in Central New York hits hard—and your A/C better be ready.
At Heat Wiser Heating & Air Conditioning, we’re dedicated to keeping homes cool, comfortable, and stress-free in Syracuse and surrounding areas. Every year, we see the same preventable problems knock out perfectly good systems at the worst possible time.
No need to sweat—literally. Most air conditioning issues can be prevented with a little routine maintenance and some early attention. Here are the five most common A/C problems we see in Central NY, and exactly how you can stop them before they turn your home into a sauna.
1. Dirty Air Filters
This one’s the A/C system’s worst enemy—by far. When your air filter is clogged with dust, pet hair, and pollen, your system has to work overtime to push air through—and that means higher bills, weaker airflow, and a shorter system lifespan.
How to prevent it:
- Switch out air filters every 1-3 months, especially in summer
- If you have pets or struggle with allergies, check it monthly
- Inspect them regularly for any debris buildup
Pro tip: Hold your filter up to the light—if you can’t see through it, it’s time for a new one.
2. Low Refrigerant Levels
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Your A/C cools your home by removing heat using refrigerant. If refrigerant levels drop (often due to leaks), your system will struggle to cool—and could even suffer costly compressor damage.
Signs of a refrigerant issue:
- Vents blowing warm air
- Hissing or bubbling noises near your unit
- Higher electric bills
How to prevent it:
- Schedule annual maintenance to check refrigerant levels and detect leaks early
- If you suspect a leak, call a professional immediately—refrigerant is not a DIY fix
3. Faulty Thermostats
Your A/C might be innocent… the thermostat could be the sneaky culprit. If it’s outdated, inaccurate, or not communicating properly, you could be facing uneven cooling or a unit that won’t run at all.
Watch out for:
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- A/C short cycling
- Inaccurate room temperatures
- Blank or unresponsive screen
How to prevent it:
- Upgrade to smart thermostat
- Let a Heat Wiser tech test your thermostat during your next tune-up for accuracy
Cool fact: Smart thermostats can reduce cooling costs and give you remote control via smartphone!
4. Blocked Condenser Units
Your outdoor condenser unit is essential for releasing heat—but it can’t do its job if it’s blocked by debris or overgrowth.
Check monthly for:
- Leaves, branches, or grass clippings
- Weeds and overgrown shrubs
- Outdoor furniture or storage bins
General rule-of thumb: Always keep at least 2 feet of space around your outdoor unit
Need some extra help? We offer a full A/C condenser inspection and cleaning for only $49!
5. Electrical Failures and Worn Components
Wires corrode, capacitors fail, and motors wear down—it’s inevitable. But electrical issues often show no obvious signs until it’s too late.
Warning signs:
- A/C won’t turn on
- Buzzing or clicking noises
- A burning smell
How to prevent it:
- Book a comprehensive electrical inspection as part of your seasonal tune-up
Don’t wait—catch small issues before they cause a full breakdown
Why Preventative Maintenance Matters
Preventative maintenance is more than just a checklist—it’s a smart investment in your comfort and your home.
Regular HVAC tune-ups help you:
- Avoid surprise breakdowns
- Lower your utility bills
- Improve indoor air quality
- Extend the life of your system
Bonus: By joining Heat Wiser’s Maintenance Program, you’ll receive priority scheduling, exclusive discounts, and peace of mind knowing your system is in expert hands.
What makes Heat Wiser the wiser choice for HVAC?
With over 18 years of experience serving Central NY, Heat Wiser Heating & Air Conditioning is your go-to for reliable, honest HVAC service.
What sets us apart:
✅ Skilled Technicians – We service all brands and systems
✅ Full-Service HVAC – From A/C and furnace repairs to indoor air quality
✅ Upfront Pricing & Integrity – No surprises, just honest work
✅ Emergency Service 24/7 – We’re here when you need us
Over 10,000+ hours of maintenance and 2,000+ completed projects means you can rest easy—we know how to keep your home comfortable year-round.
Schedule Your A/C Tune-Up Today
Central NY heatwaves don’t wait—and neither should you. Our $99 seasonal A/C tune-up is your best defense against surprise failures and scorching days without cool air.
Call us at (315) 457-4100 or schedule your service online
It’s the smartest $99 you’ll spend this summer.
