When the summer heat rolls into Staten Island, homeowners know just how essential a properly functioning air conditioning system is. At AFCO Heating & Air Conditioning, we’ve built our reputation on being the trusted local choice for reliable AC repair in Staten Island. With fast response times, experienced technicians, and a commitment to honest pricing, we’ve seen it all when it comes to keeping homes cool and comfortable during the peak of summer.
Every year, as temperatures climb and systems work overtime, we encounter many of the same issues from households across the borough. In this blog, we’ll walk you through five of the most common AC problems we fix every summer in Staten Island. By sharing our knowledge, we hope to give homeowners insight into why these issues occur, how to spot them, and why calling in licensed HVAC professionals like our team is the safest and smartest way to restore your comfort.
1. AC Not Cooling Properly
The number one call we get when summer hits is from homeowners frustrated that their AC isn’t cooling effectively. Few things are as frustrating as turning down the thermostat only to find the air coming out of your vents is warm or not cold enough.
There are several reasons why this issue might occur. Sometimes, it’s as simple as a clogged air filter blocking airflow. Other times, the problem may stem from low refrigerant levels, a faulty compressor, or leaks within the system. In older Staten Island homes, ductwork that hasn’t been inspected in years can also contribute to inefficiency, with cooled air escaping before it ever reaches your living spaces.
When we arrive on-site, our experienced technicians quickly diagnose the problem using advanced tools and years of hands-on experience with both older AC models and the latest high-efficiency systems. We’ve seen how Staten Island’s humid summers put strain on cooling systems, and we know exactly what to look for to bring temperatures back down fast.
If you find yourself searching “air conditioning service near me” because your AC is not cooling, Staten Island residents can trust us to arrive promptly and provide a clear explanation of what’s wrong and how we’ll fix it. No guesswork, no hidden fees—just honest service and immediate relief from the heat.
2. Frozen Evaporator Coils
Another frequent problem we encounter is frozen evaporator coils. When coils ice over, the system can no longer effectively cool your home, and in many cases, it may shut down entirely. This is especially common during high-use periods in the peak of July and August when Staten Island homeowners are running their systems around the clock.
Frozen coils can be caused by restricted airflow, dirty filters, refrigerant issues, or even blower fan problems. In some instances, we see this happen when homeowners skip regular maintenance, not realizing that dust and debris buildup can eventually choke the system.
Our technicians don’t just thaw coils and leave—it’s our job to identify the root cause so the issue doesn’t happen again. We emphasize preventative maintenance, because we know the inconvenience and discomfort of an AC breakdown in the middle of a Staten Island heatwave. By offering affordable maintenance plans, we help homeowners avoid the disruption of frozen coils and the costly repairs that can follow if the problem is ignored.
At AFCO Heating & Air Conditioning, we’ve built long-term relationships with families who rely on us year after year because we focus on solutions that keep their homes cool without recurring issues. We want your AC to work not just today, but all summer long.
3. Unusual Noises and Strange Smells
Air conditioners should run quietly and without noticeable odors. When customers call us reporting grinding, squealing, rattling, or musty smells, we know something is wrong—and it’s usually something that needs immediate attention.
Unusual noises can mean several things: worn belts, failing motors, or loose parts. If left unchecked, these minor issues can escalate into expensive repairs or even system failure. Smells, on the other hand, are often tied to mold growth in ductwork or on coils, electrical issues, or overheating components. Given Staten Island’s humid environment, mold and mildew are particularly common culprits.
Our emergency AC repair in Staten Island is designed for these situations. We respond quickly to prevent damage from getting worse and restore safe, quiet operation. Homeowners often tell us how relieved they are to have someone local they can count on, especially when the situation feels urgent. Because we’re licensed and insured, families know they’re getting trustworthy service from HVAC professionals who truly care about their comfort and safety.
We take pride in our ability to troubleshoot both modern systems with advanced electronics and older units that may not have had professional servicing in years. Whatever the situation, we make sure your AC system runs smoothly and quietly, so you can get back to enjoying your home in peace.
4. Thermostat and Electrical Issues
Sometimes, the air conditioner itself isn’t the problem—it’s the thermostat or electrical components. Staten Island homeowners often call us when their system simply won’t turn on, cycles on and off erratically, or doesn’t respond to thermostat adjustments.
Faulty wiring, tripped breakers, or malfunctioning thermostats are common causes. In older Staten Island homes with outdated electrical systems, these problems occur more often, especially when the AC is placed under heavy demand during hot spells.
Our technicians are trained to carefully inspect electrical connections and thermostat functionality to pinpoint the source of the issue. If it’s an outdated thermostat, we can replace it with a modern, programmable option that not only restores comfort but improves energy efficiency. If the problem lies within wiring or breakers, we ensure everything is safely repaired or replaced.
We stress to our customers that attempting DIY fixes with electrical components can be dangerous. That’s why calling for professional AC repair in Staten Island is always the safer route. With AFCO Heating & Air Conditioning, you’ll know the job is handled correctly, protecting both your family and your equipment.
5. Emergency Breakdowns During Heatwaves
Despite the best maintenance, sometimes air conditioners fail unexpectedly—and it almost always happens on the hottest days of the year. When the temperature spikes and families need relief immediately, our phones ring off the hook for emergency AC repair in Staten Island.
At AFCO, we’re prepared for these moments. We staff up during the summer months to ensure fast response times because we know that a broken AC is more than just an inconvenience—it can be a health risk for children, seniors, and anyone sensitive to extreme heat.
Our emergency AC repair services are available when you need them most, with technicians who arrive promptly, diagnose problems quickly, and get systems running again without delay. We never take advantage of emergencies with hidden fees or inflated pricing. Our commitment to upfront, honest pricing applies whether it’s a routine repair or a late-night emergency call.
It’s this dedication to integrity and reliability that has built our reputation in Staten Island. Families who have called us in urgent situations often become lifelong customers because they know they can rely on us in moments of need.
Conclusion
At AFCO Heating & Air Conditioning, we’ve built our business on keeping Staten Island families cool, safe, and comfortable every summer. From AC not cooling properly to frozen coils, strange noises, electrical problems, and emergency breakdowns, we’ve seen—and fixed—it all.
What sets us apart isn’t just our ability to solve these common AC problems. It’s our commitment to fast response times, experienced local technicians, upfront pricing, and preventative maintenance that helps families avoid the hassle of unexpected breakdowns in the first place.
So the next time you find yourself searching “air conditioning service near me” or needing reliable AC repair in Staten Island, remember that AFCO Heating & Air Conditioning is here to help. With licensed and insured professionals, decades of experience, and a reputation built on trust, we’re proud to be the go-to choice for AC repair and emergency service across Staten Island.
Don’t wait for the heat to overwhelm you—schedule your preventative maintenance with us today and enjoy peace of mind knowing your home will stay cool no matter how high the summer temperatures climb.