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Logo of J.A. Bertsch Heating and Cooling. J.A. Bertsch Heating and Cooling offers HVAC or electrical services near Coeur d'Alene, CDA, Post Falls, Hayden, Rathdrum, Sandpoint, Spirit Lake, St Maries, Athol, Blanchard, Dalton Gardens, Worley, Plummer, and Harrison, ID. Services include thermostat, furnace, heat pump, boiler, fireplace, air conditioner, and water heater installation, maintenance, or repair.
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Here’s What Homeowners Need to Know

When your air conditioner suddenly stops working in the middle of a hot Idaho summer, the first thing on your mind is probably, What’s wrong with it—and how much will it cost to fix? At J.A. Bertsch Heating and Cooling, we get that question all the time: What is the most common AC repair?

Here’s a closer look at the most frequent issues we see in Coeur d’Alene, Post Falls, Hayden, Rathdrum, Spirit Lake, and Sandpoint—and how to know when it’s time to call a professional.

The Most Common AC Repair: Capacitor Replacement

The most common AC repair we handle is capacitor replacement. Your system’s capacitors are responsible for starting the compressor and fan motors. Over time, they can wear out—especially after a long winter followed by a surge of summer use.

When a capacitor fails, your AC may hum but won’t start, or it might cycle on and off frequently. While it’s a relatively quick fix, it requires professional attention due to high voltage and proper part matching.

Other Frequent AC Repairs We See

While capacitors are the most common, there are a handful of other issues that frequently affect residential AC systems:

  • Refrigerant Leaks: If your AC isn’t cooling effectively, low refrigerant could be the culprit. This often requires not just a recharge, but leak detection and sealing.

  • Dirty Air Filters: Though simple, clogged filters are a top reason for poor airflow, frozen coils, and uneven cooling. Regular maintenance helps avoid this issue.

  • Faulty Thermostats: If your home never seems to reach the set temperature, your thermostat might be misreading the room or sending incorrect signals to the system.

  • Frozen Evaporator Coils: Restricted airflow or refrigerant issues can cause your coils to freeze, shutting your system down entirely.

  • Drain Line Clogs: AC units pull moisture from the air, and when the condensate line clogs, water backs up and may cause damage or system shutdown.

AC Repairs You Shouldn’t Try to DIY

While it’s tempting to troubleshoot your own HVAC issues, many common AC repairs—especially those involving electrical parts, refrigerant, or complex diagnostics—should always be handled by licensed professionals. If you’re noticing any of these signs, schedule a cooling repair service to stay cool and safe.

Stay Ahead of Repairs with AC Maintenance

The best way to avoid unexpected breakdowns is with regular AC maintenance. Our technicians inspect, clean, and fine-tune your system so minor issues don’t turn into major headaches.

Fast, Reliable AC Repairs in North Idaho

Whether you’re in St Maries, Athol, or Blanchard, we offer fast and reliable AC repair services across the region. We understand how important comfort is during the summer—and we’re committed to making sure your system is running at its best.

If your air conditioner is acting up, don’t wait for things to get worse. Contact J.A. Bertsch Heating and Cooling for professional HVAC service in Coeur d’Alene, Post Falls, Dalton Gardens, Worley, Plummer, and Harrison.

FAQs

What is the most common part to fail on an AC unit?

The most common part to fail on an AC unit is the capacitor. It’s a small but essential electrical component that helps power the compressor and fan motors. When it fails, your air conditioner might hum, click, or refuse to start. Capacitor issues are one of the top reasons we’re called for AC repair in Coeur d’Alene and nearby areas.

What is the $5000 rule for AC?

The $5000 rule is a quick way to decide whether to repair or replace an air conditioner. Multiply the age of your AC unit by the estimated repair cost. If the number exceeds $5000, it’s often more cost-effective to replace the unit. For example, a 12-year-old AC with a $500 repair might be better off replaced. We can help you compare repair vs. AC installation costs to make the right choice for your home.

What is the most common problem in an AC unit?

The most common problem in an AC unit is poor airflow caused by a dirty air filter or a failing blower motor. This can lead to uneven cooling, frozen coils, and rising energy bills. That’s why regular AC maintenance is so important for keeping your system efficient and reliable, especially during the hot summer months.

What is the average lifespan of an AC unit?

The average lifespan of an air conditioner is about 10 to 15 years, depending on how well it’s maintained. Units in Idaho’s changing seasons work hard and may wear out faster without proper tune-ups. If your system is nearing the end of its lifespan, we offer expert guidance on AC replacement options in Spirit Lake, Hayden, and Coeur d’Alene.

How much should an AC bill be?

Your AC bill varies depending on the size of your home, insulation, how well your AC is maintained, and your thermostat habits. However, unusually high cooling costs often signal an underlying issue like low refrigerant, a dirty filter, or a failing compressor. If your AC bill is higher than expected, we recommend a system inspection to improve efficiency and lower your utility costs.

Need AC repair or help deciding if it’s time to upgrade your system? Contact J.A. Bertsch Heating and Cooling for trusted, honest service throughout Coeur d’Alene, Post Falls, Hayden, Rathdrum, Sandpoint, and more.