AC Repair in Memphis: How to Diagnose and Prevent Common Cooling Issues

By AJ's HVAC

on January 30, 2026

Technician inspecting a residential AC unit outside a Memphis home

Summer in Memphis isn’t just a season—it’s a force to be reckoned with. When your AC struggles to keep up, every degree feels like a challenge. At AJ’s HVAC, we know how Memphis heat and humidity can turn a minor AC issue into a full-blown emergency, fast.

You deserve a cool, comfortable home. Let’s break down the most common AC problems, what you can do, and when it’s time to call in the pros.

Common AC Problems in Memphis Homes

Your air conditioner works overtime during Memphis summers. Here are the issues we see most:

AC Not Cooling Enough: The air feels warm, or your system runs but never quite gets there.
Unusual Noises: Banging, squealing, or rattles that weren’t there last month.
Water Leaks: Pools of water near the indoor unit or mysterious drips.
Frozen Coils: Ice on the outdoor or indoor unit—even when it’s blazing hot outside.
Short Cycling: The AC keeps turning on and off in rapid bursts.
Unresponsive Thermostat: The numbers change, but the comfort doesn’t.

Sometimes it’s a quick fix. Sometimes, it’s a sign of a bigger issue. Either way, fast action keeps the problem from snowballing.

Quick Diagnostic Checklist ✅

Before you panic—or sweat through another night—walk through these basic steps:

Check the Thermostat: Is it set to “cool”? Are the batteries fresh?
Air Filter: Dirty filters can choke your AC. Swap it out if it’s gray or clogged.
Breaker Box: Did a recent storm trip the breaker? Flip it back, but only once.
Vents & Registers: Make sure furniture or rugs aren’t blocking airflow.
Outside Unit: Clear away leaves, sticks, or debris from the outdoor condenser.
Listen & Look: Do you hear grinding or see water? Take note for your technician.

If your AC still isn’t working right, or you see ice, water, or smoke, it’s time to move on to the next step.

When to Call a Pro 📞

Trying to fix every AC problem yourself is like patching a leaky boat with duct tape. Sometimes, you’ll just make it worse.

Call AJ’s HVAC if you notice:

Ice on coils or lines (don’t chip it off!).
Burning smells or visible smoke.
Water pooling under the indoor unit.
Loud screeching, grinding, or metal-on-metal sounds.
AC won’t turn on, even after checking the breaker.
Electrical issues after a Memphis thunderstorm or power surge.

DIY is great for filters and settings, but refrigerant leaks, electrical faults, and motor issues need a trained hand. There’s a reason even seasoned pros use the right tools and safety gear.

What Pros Do On Arrival

When you call AJ’s HVAC, our licensed technicians arrive ready for anything Memphis weather can throw at them.

Here’s what you can expect:

Thorough Inspection: We check refrigerant levels, electrical connections, and safety switches.
System Tests: Airflow, temperature drops, and cycling are measured and recorded.
Leak Detection: We use safe, approved methods to check for refrigerant leaks.
Component Checks: Motors, capacitors, fans, and thermostats are all on our list.
Clear Communication: We’ll explain what’s wrong—in plain English—and what can be done.

We follow local Memphis codes and national safety standards (like those from ASHRAE and EPA) to keep your home safe and up to code.

Preventative Maintenance Tips 🧰

Regular care is the secret weapon against surprise breakdowns. Here’s what Memphis homeowners can do:

Change your air filter every 1–3 months (more often with pets or allergies).
Schedule spring AC maintenance before the first heat wave hits.
Keep the outdoor unit clear of leaves, grass, and debris.
Check your thermostat’s accuracy. If in doubt, use a portable thermometer.
Seal up drafts and insulate ducts. Keeps cool air where it belongs.
Ask about humidity control. Memphis summers are muggy; dehumidifiers can help your AC run smoother.

Annual maintenance with a pro means fewer emergencies, better air quality, and longer equipment life. Consider our AC Maintenance plans to make it easy.

Costs & Time Factors

Every AC repair is different. Here’s what can affect how long and how much:

Severity: A quick filter change is fast and cheap. Refrigerant leaks or motor failures take more time and expertise.
Parts: Older units or specialty models may need ordered parts.
Access: Tight attic or crawlspace installs can add time.
Season: Summer in Memphis is peak season. Emergency calls may take priority, especially during heat waves.

Delaying repairs often means higher costs down the line—small issues rarely fix themselves.

When It’s an Emergency

Some AC issues can’t wait—especially in Memphis, where heat and humidity can be dangerous, especially for kids, seniors, and pets.

It’s an emergency if:

Indoor temps climb above 85°F and you can’t cool down.
You smell burning or see smoke.
Water is leaking into ceilings or walls.
You have medical equipment or health needs that require cooling.

AJ’s HVAC offers 24-Hour Emergency Service so you’re never left in the heat.

FAQ: Common AC Repair Questions

Q: Why does my AC freeze up in summer?
A: Frozen coils are usually a sign of low airflow (dirty filter, blocked vents) or low refrigerant. Never try to chip away the ice—turn off the system and call for service.

Q: Is it safe to run my AC during a Memphis thunderstorm?
A: It’s generally safe, but power surges can damage electronics. Consider a whole-home surge protector or generator for peace of mind.

Q: How often should I have my AC serviced?
A: At least once a year—preferably in spring before heavy use. Memphis’s long cooling season can mean more frequent checks.

Q: What should I do if my AC is leaking water?
A: Turn off the unit. Clean up standing water to prevent damage, then call for professional help.

Local & Seasonal Considerations 🌦️

Memphis weather throws curveballs: sudden heat spikes, sticky humidity, and the occasional power outage. Your AC isn’t just fighting temperature—it’s battling moisture, dust, and electrical surges.

Humidity: High moisture makes your system work harder. Consider dehumidifier add-ons.
Storms: Power outages and surges can trip breakers or damage sensitive components.
Pollen & Dust: Memphis spring blooms mean more filter changes to keep air clean.

AJ’s HVAC has served Memphis homes through blazing summers, muggy springs, and stormy nights. Our technicians know the local codes, weather patterns, and what it takes to keep your system running strong.

Need more than just a quick repair? Explore our full service options:

Ready to Get Comfortable Again?

Don’t let the Memphis heat win. When your AC acts up, call the team that knows how to keep your home cool—day or night.

Call AJ's HVAC now — or reach us anytime at (901) 657-1827 .