Top 5 AC Problems to Watch for During a Summer Heatwave in Metro Atlanta
When a summer heatwave rolls through Metro Atlanta, your air conditioner becomes more than just a luxury—it's a lifeline. But with temperatures soaring and humidity on the rise, this is also when your AC system is under the most stress. That's when small issues turn into major HVAC problems—and fast.
If you live in Kennesaw, Marietta, Acworth, or anywhere across Metro Atlanta, here are the top 5 AC problems to watch out for during extreme summer heat:
1. Frozen Evaporator Coils
Yes, it sounds ironic—but frozen coils in the middle of a heatwave are a common problem. When airflow is restricted due to a clogged air filter, dirty coils, or low refrigerant, the evaporator coil can freeze up, causing the system to stop cooling entirely.
Signs to look for:
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Warm air blowing from vents
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Ice or frost buildup on the outdoor unit or refrigerant lines
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Increased humidity indoors
Pro tip: Replace your air filter every 1-3 months and schedule routine maintenance to prevent coil issues.
2. Low Refrigerant Levels
Refrigerant is what your AC uses to pull heat out of your home. When levels are low—often due to a leak—your system will run longer, work harder, and cool less effectively. During a Metro Atlanta heatwave, that can mean sky-high energy bills and a hot, uncomfortable home.
Warning signs:
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AC blowing warm or lukewarm air
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Hissing or bubbling sounds from the system
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Ice forming on the refrigerant lines
Don't DIY this one. Low refrigerant is a job for licensed HVAC pros, like our team at Guardian Home Experts.
3. Capacitor or Electrical Failures
Extreme temperatures are tough on your AC's electrical components, especially the capacitor, which helps start the compressor and fan motors. When it fails, your system might not turn on—or it could shut off unexpectedly.
Watch for:
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AC system won't start or stops mid-cycle
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Clicking or buzzing noises from the outdoor unit
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A sudden spike in energy usage
In the peak of summer, electrical issues are one of the top emergency HVAC calls we see throughout Metro Atlanta.
4. Clogged Condensate Drain Line
Your AC doesn't just cool the air—it also removes moisture. That moisture drains through a condensate line, which can clog with algae, dirt, or debris—especially during humid Georgia summers.
Symptoms include:
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Water leaks around the indoor unit
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Musty smells from vents
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AC system shutting off suddenly (due to float switch activation)
Ignoring this can lead to water damage and mold growth, so it's best to have it cleared ASAP.
5. Short Cycling (Frequent On/Off Cycles)
When your AC turns on and off rapidly without completing a full cooling cycle, it's called short cycling. It can be caused by oversized systems, dirty filters, low refrigerant, or faulty thermostats—and it leads to increased wear and tear, reduced comfort, and higher cooling costs.
Common signs:
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AC kicks on for just a few minutes
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Uneven cooling in your home
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Skyrocketing energy bills
Short cycling is especially common during extreme heat in Atlanta and can wear your system out prematurely if not addressed.
Beat the Heat with Guardian Home Experts
At Guardian Home Experts, we help homeowners across Kennesaw, Marietta, Acworth, and the greater Atlanta area stay cool when it matters most. Our licensed HVAC pros are ready with same-day AC repairs, next-day installations, and expert maintenance to keep your system running at peak performance. Schedule online now!
