Skip to content
120 Liberty Street
(848) 305-9945

Common AC Problems We Repair

Air conditioning systems can fail for numerous reasons, and identifying the root cause requires expertise and proper diagnostic equipment. Refrigerant leaks represent one of the most frequent issues we encounter, often manifesting as reduced cooling capacity or ice formation on the evaporator coils. These leaks can occur at connection points, within the evaporator or condenser coils, or along the refrigerant lines themselves. Our technicians use electronic leak detectors and UV dye testing to pinpoint exact leak locations before performing repairs and recharging the system to manufacturer specifications.

Electrical component failures account for approximately 40% of AC repair calls we receive throughout Garfield, Hackensack, Hasbrough, Lodi, Passaic, Saddlebrook, Edison Township, Hasbrouck Heights, Highland Park, and Woodbridge, NJ. Capacitors, which provide the initial power surge needed to start motors, typically last between five and ten years before requiring replacement. Contactors, the electrical switches that control power flow to the compressor and fan motors, can wear out from repeated cycling, especially in systems that short-cycle due to improper sizing or thermostat issues. Our team carries replacement parts for most major brands, allowing us to complete many electrical repairs during the initial service visit.

Our Comprehensive Repair Process

When you contact First Choice Plumbing, Heating, Air Conditioning & Electrical for AC repair, we follow a systematic approach that ensures accurate diagnosis and lasting solutions. Upon arrival, our technicians perform a complete system inspection, checking thermostat operation, measuring temperature differentials across the evaporator coil, testing electrical components with multimeters, and examining the condition of filters and coils. This thorough evaluation helps us identify not just the immediate problem but also any underlying issues that could cause future failures.

We maintain full transparency throughout the repair process, explaining exactly what’s wrong with your system and what needs to be done to fix it. Before beginning any work, we provide detailed explanations of necessary repairs and discuss available options. Our financing options make even major repairs manageable for your budget, ensuring you don’t have to suffer through hot weather while waiting to afford necessary fixes. Every repair we perform meets or exceeds industry standards, and we stand behind our work with comprehensive warranties.

More

Signs Your AC Needs Professional Repair

Recognizing early warning signs of AC problems can prevent minor issues from becoming major failures. If your system runs continuously without adequately cooling your home, produces unusual noises like grinding, squealing, or banging, or creates unpleasant odors when operating, professional repair is needed immediately.

  • Inconsistent cooling: rooms that remain warm while others are cold indicate airflow problems or failing components
  • High humidity levels: properly functioning AC removes moisture, so excess humidity suggests refrigerant or coil issues
  • Frequent cycling: systems that turn on and off repeatedly may have oversizing issues or failing thermostats
  • Water leaks: pooling water near the indoor unit indicates clogged drain lines or frozen evaporator coils
  • Rising energy bills: sudden increases in cooling costs often signal declining system efficiency requiring professional attention

Maintaining Your AC After Repair

Following professional repair, proper maintenance extends the life of your air conditioning system and prevents future breakdowns. Regular filter changes, typically monthly during peak cooling season, maintain proper airflow and prevent dust accumulation on sensitive components. Annual professional maintenance visits allow our technicians to catch developing problems before they require emergency repairs.

Our maintenance programs include comprehensive cleaning of evaporator and condenser coils, checking and adjusting refrigerant levels, lubricating moving parts, tightening electrical connections, and calibrating thermostats for optimal performance. These preventive measures typically reduce repair frequency by 75% and can extend system life by several years. With our free estimates on installation services, we can also help you plan for eventual system replacement when repairs become less cost-effective than upgrading to newer, more efficient equipment.

superhero banner

24/7 Emergency Service
What They're Saying
Customer Reviews

A service person named Angel quickly diagnosed and fixed the issue with my AC. He was very professional. I was so happy with the experience that I signed up for a yearly maintenance contract. I found First Choice based on good local Facebook feedback and I am so glad that I did!

Ann Marie Regan

We had Alex Dicrosta of First Choice come check our furnace today because it was leaking water when the AC was on. Alex diagnosed the issue quickly that it was a clogged pipe going from the water pump. He unclogged the pipe and confirmed that was the cause of the leak. Alex is extreme knowledgeable, friendly, and customer focused. He even checked the rest of the unit to make sure everything was working properly before he left. I will definitely request Alex the next time I need AC or heating service from First Choice.

Rich R

I had my annual maintenance today for my boiler and mini splits and couldn’t be happier with the service. Angel Garcia from First Choice Plumbing and HVAC went above and beyond. He was patient when I asked questions, very thorough, and took great care of everything like it was his own home. You can tell he truly loves what he does, and that the company really values its people. Highly recommend Angel and the First Choice team!

Chris R

Had a plumbing, piece of water brass pipe replaced under deck and valve installed. Eli was great in giving few different options and suggestions for best method. I was very
happy with same day service and work.

Rupal B

The First Choice techs are always great but Angel was particularly outstanding today. He did a very thorough maintenance and cleaning check. He was super patient with all of my questions and really helped us plan out preventative maintenance on our system. Highly recommend Angel and First Choice!

Cassandra S

First Choice heating & cooling sent a very professional repair man named Angel who did an amazing job doing some electrical work to get my A/C unit working late on a Friday evening. He responded within hours and got the A/C up and running on this super hot day. Thank you Angel from First Choice in Metuchen, NJ! I highly recommend them!

Doris Cruz

I had a leaking toilet and gave First Choice a call. They responded quickly and sent someone out the same day. Jordan was very professional, diagnosed the problem right away, and fixed it without any hassle. The leak is gone, and everything works perfectly now. Highly recommend!

Joan

Angel came for a complimentary service after a new HVAC was installed this past winter. Angel was extremely helpful and informative. Was at the house for about an hour showing me different ways to have better airflow and also switched out filters. Would highly recommend !!

Joseph G

First Choice came out today for my annual A/C maintenance, and I couldn’t be more pleased with the experience. Lenny Z was the technician — he was professional, courteous, and right on time. He made sure everything was running efficiently before he left. I highly recommend First Choice for anyone looking for reliable, top-notch service for their HVAC !

Howard Z

5 Stars! We had a fantastic experience with First Choice. They installed two new HVAC systems for our business, and the team of Jeff, Ethan, and Joey was professional, efficient, and great to work with. Highly recommend!

Eddie M

We had 2 new hvac systems and a hot water heater replaced and WOW cannot say enough good things about all 4 guys that did the work. Efficient, caring, knowledgeable and all professional. We highly recommend First Choice, from our initial meeting with Ryan to the completion of the installation. Thank you for a perfect job!

Debbie D

I have depended upon First Choice for several years to address all my heating and cooling needs and have never been disappointed
Techs have always been knowledgeable and technically competent, in addition to which
courteous and respectful.
I would prefer my heating and cooling needs to be minor but at least I am comforted by knowing this company is always prepared to handle any issue which this household may face, thus I highly recommend First Choice

John M

Angel Garcia is the best!!! First Choice has just been great about upgrading my systems. They are neat and their work is impeccable and very pretty. I have used them since 1987 and have no complaints. Angel has been wonderful about making sure we have what we need. He feels like my personal consultant, but all the folks there are so helpful and responsive. Highly highly recommend them.

Barbara M

Dave and Eli from First Choice did an excellent job installing a toilet in my home. They arrived on time, were professional and clean, and completed the work quickly with top-quality results. Highly recommend!

Gvido T