Why Is Your Air Conditioner Blowing Smoke in Surprise, AZ?

“Why is my AC blowing smoke?” While it might look like a serious problem, it’s often not as bad as it seems.

As the go-to crew for AC services in Surprise, AZ, we at Mountainside Air have seen our fair share of unusual HVAC behaviors. Keep reading to learn more.

Troubleshooting a Cooling System Blowing Smoke in Surprise

Don’t panic just yet because there’s likely a simple explanation. The most common culprits include:

High Humidity

Have you ever opened a freezer on a hot day? You probably noticed a cloudy fog as the chilled air came into contact with the warmer environment beyond it. The same thing can happen with your air conditioning.

As long as the “smoke” is pale and odorless, it’s probably just condensed water vapor. It forms when a cooling system’s internal humidity dips below that of your indoor air.

The bigger the temperature difference, the more likely you’ll see this mist. Summers in Surprise are fairly arid, so condensation is less common. However, it can still happen in properties outfitted with humidifiers.

Condensation Buildup

All air conditioners create condensation as a natural part of the cooling cycle. Modern setups in Surprise collect it in a drain pan and reuse it to clean and cool components.

Traditional models, meanwhile, only have a small drain hole for excess water to escape. If it gets blocked, the moisture stays trapped inside the system. The water will eventually come into contact with the heat produced by the unit and evaporate into the steam you’re seeing.

Overheating

Why is my AC blowing smoke? If it’s accompanied by burnt, acrid odors, cut off power immediately to limit potential damage.

Air conditioners have various components that produce heat and need ample ventilation to dissipate it. With limited or blocked air flow, these parts can overheat and eventually fail.

Today’s systems typically have safety features to shut down before damage occurs, but they’re not foolproof.

An Electrical Malfunction

Electrical issues within your AC can spark smoke due to faulty wiring, short circuits, or failing components like capacitors. For example, aged insulation may crack, exposing wires and causing sparks. Motors and compressors can also work beyond their limits because of a faulty overload relay.

Avoiding Air Conditioning Smoke Issues

If you’ve discovered this page out of curiosity and not from an immediate concern, then take these proactive steps to prevent the issue altogether:

Refresh Your Filters

Regular filter changes preserve airflow, prevent unnecessary strain on your system, and extend its lifespan. This practice also improves the air you breathe, capturing dust, pollen, and other particles. Most experts recommend a replacement every 30 to 90 days based on the following:

• The number of inhabitants
• Presence of pets
• Allergies or respiratory conditions
• Usage patterns
• Environmental factors, such as nearby construction or busy neighborhoods

Keep in mind that some filters are reusable. You simply need to take them out, wash and dry them thoroughly, then place them back. Read your owner’s manual for specific instructions.

Get a Properly Sized Air Conditioner

If your AC is blowing smoke, buying an air conditioner a few sizes up might seem like a good idea. However, while it will cool quickly, it won’t run long enough to dehumidify your space, resulting in clammy air and the unit emitting visible vapor.

Frequent on-off cycling also strains the system and wears it out prematurely. Always choose an air conditioner that suits your home’s square footage.

Get an HVAC System Inspection Yearly

Many people make the mistake of treating professional tune-ups as optional, but they’re essential. Experts catch issues before they snowball and preserve your system’s efficiency. For example, frozen evaporator coils can eventually turn into a refrigerant leak.

A typical session includes:

• Checking and cleaning critical components
• Testing for proper airflow and temperature control
• Evaluating refrigerant levels and addressing leaks
• Calibrating the thermostat
• Tightening electrical connections
• Lubricating moving parts
• Identifying potential safety hazards