AC Repair in Apex, NC
$49 diagnostic — applied toward your repair. Same-day service across Apex, Cary, Raleigh & Durham.
Why Is My AC Not Cooling?
If your AC is running but not cooling, the most common culprits are a dirty air filter, low refrigerant, or a failing compressor. In most cases, it's something a technician can diagnose in under an hour — and fix the same day.
Let's walk through what's likely going on.
Dirty or Clogged Air Filter
This is the number-one reason we see ACs underperform. A clogged filter restricts airflow across the evaporator coil, which causes the coil to freeze up. The system runs constantly but barely cools. If you haven't changed your filter in 60+ days, start there. Pull it out, hold it up to the light — if you can't see through it, replace it and give the system a few hours to recover.
Low Refrigerant (Freon Leak)
Your AC doesn't "use up" refrigerant. If it's low, there's a leak somewhere in the line set, evaporator coil, or condenser. Low refrigerant means the system can't absorb enough heat from your indoor air, so it blows lukewarm. You'll often notice ice forming on the copper lines near your outdoor unit. This isn't a DIY fix — refrigerant handling requires EPA certification and specialized equipment.
Failing Capacitor or Compressor
The capacitor gives your compressor the jolt it needs to start. When it weakens, the compressor struggles to kick on or shuts off early. You might hear a clicking or humming sound from the outdoor unit. Capacitors are inexpensive to replace. A failing compressor is a bigger deal — depending on the age of your system, it may make more sense to replace the unit than to sink $1,500+ into a compressor swap.
Frozen Evaporator Coil
Low airflow (from that dirty filter) or low refrigerant causes the evaporator coil to ice over. When it's frozen, it can't absorb heat. Turn the system to "fan only" for a few hours to let it thaw, then call for service. Running the AC with a frozen coil can damage the compressor.
Thermostat Issues
Sometimes the problem isn't the AC at all. A miscalibrated thermostat, dead batteries, or a thermostat placed in direct sunlight can send the wrong signals to your system. Check that it's set to "cool" (not "auto" or "heat"), the temperature is set below the current room temp, and the fan is set to "auto."
Symptoms That Mean You Need a Pro
- Warm air blowing from vents even after replacing the filter
- Ice on the refrigerant lines or outdoor unit
- The outdoor unit isn't spinning or makes unusual noises
- Circuit breaker trips repeatedly when the AC runs
- Musty or burning smell from the vents
- System short-cycles (turns on and off every few minutes)
If you're seeing any of these, it's time for a diagnostic. Our techs arrive with fully stocked trucks and can handle most repairs in a single visit. Element Service Group offers a $49 diagnostic that gets applied toward your repair — so if we fix it, the diagnostic is essentially free.
What a Technician Actually Checks
A proper AC diagnostic isn't just "look at the unit and give a quote." Our process includes checking refrigerant levels and pressures, testing capacitors and electrical connections, inspecting the evaporator and condenser coils, measuring airflow and temperature differential (you want 15-20°F between supply and return air), and verifying thermostat calibration.
Why This Matters in the Triangle
Summers here regularly hit 95°F with humidity above 80%. Your AC isn't just running — it's working overtime to pull moisture out of the air too. That puts serious strain on components. Duke Energy bills during July and August can easily double if your system is struggling to keep up.
A lot of homes in Apex and Cary were built between 2000 and 2015 during the Triangle's big growth period. Those original AC systems are now 10-25 years old, which is right at or past the end of their expected lifespan. If your system needs frequent repairs and it's in that age range, our techs will give you an honest assessment of whether it makes more sense to repair or replace — no pressure either way.
We serve Apex, Cary, Holly Springs, Fuquay-Varina, Raleigh, and Durham with same-day AC repair. Over 700 five-star reviews from Triangle homeowners back that up.
Problems We Fix
Our experts can diagnose and resolve any issue
AC Not Cooling or Blowing Warm Air
This is often caused by low refrigerant from a leak, a failed compressor, a frozen evaporator coil, or a malfunctioning expansion valve. Our technicians systematically diagnose the root cause rather than guessing.
AC Won't Turn On
A system that won't start may have a tripped breaker, blown fuse, failed capacitor, burned contactor, or a faulty thermostat. Capacitor failures are especially common in the Triangle's hot summers due to the strain of extended run cycles.
Strange Noises from the AC Unit
Grinding sounds often indicate a failing fan motor bearing. Banging or clanking suggests a loose or broken component inside the compressor. Squealing points to belt or motor issues. Each sound tells a specific diagnostic story.
AC Leaking Water Inside the Home
Indoor water leaks typically result from a clogged condensate drain line, cracked drain pan, or frozen evaporator coil that's melting faster than the drain can handle. North Carolina's humidity makes condensate drainage issues particularly common.
AC Short Cycling or Running Constantly
Short cycling stresses components and drives up energy costs. Common causes include an oversized system, low refrigerant, dirty coils, or a failing compressor. A system that runs nonstop may be undersized, low on charge, or have significant duct leakage.
Why Choose Element Service Group for AC Repair
We're your trusted partner for all AC Repair needs
Accurate Diagnosis the First Time
Our technicians follow a systematic diagnostic process — not guesswork. We test and measure before recommending repairs, which means we fix the actual problem on the first visit the vast majority of the time.
Stocked Trucks for Faster Repairs
Our service vehicles carry the most commonly needed parts — capacitors, contactors, fan motors, thermostats, and more. This means many repairs are completed the same day without waiting for parts to arrive.
Honest Recommendations
When a repair costs more than it's worth, we'll tell you. We provide clear repair-vs-replacement analysis so you can make the decision that's best for your budget and long-term comfort — not our bottom line.
Standing Behind Our Work
Every repair is backed by our warranty covering both parts and labor. If the same issue returns within the warranty period, we come back and make it right at no additional charge.
Frequently Asked Questions About AC Repair
Get answers to common questions about our ac repair services
How quickly can you get to my home for an AC repair?
For standard AC repairs in the Apex, Cary, Raleigh, and surrounding areas, we typically offer same-day or next-day service. During peak summer months (June-August), demand is highest, so we recommend calling early in the day. Emergency repairs are prioritized and dispatched as quickly as possible.
How much does an AC repair cost?
Repair costs depend on the specific problem and parts needed. A capacitor replacement might run $150-$300, while a compressor replacement can range from $1,500-$2,500+. We charge a diagnostic fee to identify the problem, then provide a flat-rate repair quote before proceeding. The diagnostic fee is waived if you approve the repair.
Is it worth repairing my older AC system?
As a general guideline, if a repair costs more than 50% of a new system and your equipment is over 10 years old, replacement often makes more financial sense. We'll give you an honest assessment factoring in your system's age, repair history, efficiency, and the cost of the specific repair needed.
Why did my AC stop working on the hottest day?
This is extremely common. Peak heat days push your system to maximum capacity for extended periods. Components like capacitors, compressors, and fan motors that are already weakened by wear are most likely to fail under this extreme stress — similar to how a worn tire is most likely to blow out on a long highway drive.
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