Air Conditioner Problems We Fix
Johannesburg summers demand working air conditioning. When your AC fails, we provide fast, professional repairs to restore your comfort.
AC Not Cooling
The most common complaint. Several components can cause poor cooling performance.
Common Causes:
- Low refrigerant (gas leak)
- Dirty filters restricting airflow
- Frozen evaporator coil
- Faulty compressor
- Blocked outdoor unit
AC Not Turning On
If your unit won't start at all, electrical or control issues are likely.
Common Causes:
- Faulty capacitor
- Tripped breaker
- Remote/receiver problem
- Main PCB failure
- Compressor protection active
Water Leaking from Indoor Unit
Water dripping inside is messy and can cause damage.
Common Causes:
- Blocked drain pipe
- Dirty evaporator coil
- Drain pan cracked
- Low refrigerant causing ice
Strange Noises
Unusual sounds indicate mechanical problems.
Sound Types:
- Grinding - fan motor bearings
- Buzzing - electrical issue
- Rattling - loose parts
- Hissing - refrigerant leak
- Clicking - relay/contactor
Bad Smell from AC
Odours from your AC indicate mould, bacteria, or other issues.
Smell Types:
- Musty - mould in unit
- Burning - electrical fault
- Rotten - dead animal or blocked drain
- Chemical - refrigerant leak
Air Conditioner Error Codes
Most split unit ACs use similar error code systems. Here are common codes across brands:
Common AC Error Codes (Multi-Brand)
| Code | Meaning | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| E1 | Communication Error / High Pressure | Indoor/outdoor units not communicating, or system pressure too high. Check wiring, clean coils. |
| E2 | Indoor Coil Sensor Error | Temperature sensor on evaporator coil faulty. Sensor replacement needed. |
| E3 | Indoor Fan Speed Error | Fan not running at correct speed. Check motor and capacitor. |
| E4 | Outdoor Unit Error | Problem with outdoor unit. Check compressor and outdoor PCB. |
| E5 | Over-current Protection | Compressor drawing too much current. Check capacitor, wiring. |
| E6 | Communication Error | Indoor and outdoor units can't communicate. Check wiring. |
| F1 | Indoor Ambient Sensor | Room temperature sensor fault. Sensor needs replacement. |
| F2 | Indoor Evaporator Sensor | Evaporator temperature sensor issue. |
| F3 | Outdoor Ambient Sensor | Outdoor temperature sensor fault. |
| F4 | Outdoor Tube Sensor | Condenser coil sensor problem. |
| F5 | Discharge Sensor | Compressor discharge temperature sensor issue. |
| H1/H3 | Defrost Mode | Normal during heating. Unit defrosting outdoor coil. |
| P1 | High/Low Pressure Protection | Refrigerant pressure abnormal. Check for leaks, blockages. |
Types of Air Conditioners We Repair
Split Units
Wall-mounted indoor unit with outdoor compressor. Most common residential type.
Multi-Split Systems
Multiple indoor units connected to one outdoor unit.
Portable ACs
Standalone units with exhaust hose. Great for rentals.
Cassette Units
Ceiling-mounted units for offices and commercial spaces.
Ducted Systems
Whole-house cooling via ceiling ducts.
Window Units
All-in-one units mounted in window openings.
Our AC Services
R410a & R22
Find & repair
Coils & filters
Repair/replace
Control boards
Indoor/outdoor
New units
Move existing
AC Brands We Service
AC Maintenance Tips
Keep Your AC Running Efficiently
- Clean filters monthly - Dusty Gauteng air clogs filters fast
- Keep outdoor unit clear - 50cm clearance around unit
- Professional service annually - Before summer starts
- Check drain pipe - Ensure water flows freely
- Don't set too cold - 23-25°C is efficient
Frequently Asked Questions
Gas refill costs R600-R1,500 depending on unit size and gas type (R410a vs R22). If gas is low, there's usually a leak that should be found and repaired first.
Ice on the indoor coil is caused by: dirty filter (restricted airflow), low refrigerant, faulty fan motor, or running AC in cold weather. Turn off unit to defrost before calling for service.
At minimum once a year, ideally before summer. In dusty areas or with heavy use, every 6 months. Clean filters yourself monthly.
Musty smell indicates mould growth in the unit. We perform a deep clean of the evaporator coil, drain pan, and fan barrel to eliminate the smell and improve air quality.