Common air cooler problems and their solutions

Even the best air coolers can act up sometimes, leaving you hot and frustrated. Whether it’s making weird noises, not cooling like it used to, or completely breaking down, these issues can throw off your comfort and focus. Fortunately, most common air cooler problems can be easily fixed at home if you know what to look for.

From clogged filters to faulty motors, understanding the cause can help you sort things out fast. To keep your cooler working smoothly, here are some common problems you may encounter with it, and solutions to the same.

Common air cooler problems and their solutions

It can be frustrating when your air cooler stops working, especially when the heat is unbearable. Whether it’s not cooling enough or making strange noises, these problems can mess with your comfort. But most of them are easier to fix than you’d expect.

Here’s a breakdown of a few common air cooler problems and how to tackle them:

1. No cooling (or weak cooling)

If your air cooler isn’t giving you the cooling you need, chances are the cooling pads are clogged with dust or debris. A quick clean with some mild detergent will have them working again in no time. Also, check if the water tank is full, since low water levels can make a big difference in cooling power.

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If that doesn’t do the trick, the problem could be the water pump. If the pump’s not circulating water to the pads, give it a check and replace it if needed. Finally, a faulty fan motor could be blocking airflow. Inspect it for any damage, and get it repaired or replaced if necessary.

2. Water leakage

Water leaking from your air cooler usually means there’s a crack or damage in the tank or hoses. Take a close look and repair or replace any damaged parts you find. Another cause might be a clogged drain hose, which can back up and lead to leaks. Cleaning out the hose can prevent this and keep your cooler working properly.

3. Noise

No one likes a noisy air cooler. If yours is rattling, it could be due to loose screws or bolts. Look for any loose screws or bolts and tighten them up to stop the noise. If the sound is more of a grinding noise, worn-out fan motor bearings might be the issue. Replacing the bearings or the whole motor should do the trick.

4. Unpleasant odours 

A bad smell coming from your air cooler is often due to mould or mildew building up in the water tank or cooling pads. Regular cleaning with a disinfectant solution will help prevent this. Stagnant water is another common source of unpleasant odours, so make sure to empty and clean the tank regularly to avoid bacteria buildup.

5. Electrical problems 

If your cooler won’t turn on, check your fuse box or circuit breaker to see if there’s been a power interruption. A blown fuse or tripped breaker is easy to fix. Also, inspect the power cord for damage—if it’s frayed, replacing it should get things running again.

ALSO READ: Tips to maximise your air cooler’s performance during summer 

To avoid future issues with your air cooler, clean the cooling pads, water tank, and fan regularly. Using distilled or filtered water can prevent mineral buildup that slows down cooling. Store your air cooler in a dry place during the off-season to keep mould and mildew at bay. Lastly, always follow the manufacturer’s maintenance tips to keep things running smoothly.