The air conditioning unit is made up of many different parts working together to cool a home. It’s important to keep these components clean and running properly to avoid costly repairs or even replacement.
Common signs that a unit may need repair include warm air coming from vents, strange odors, and higher than normal energy bills.
Thermostats are responsible for controlling your home’s temperature, turning on the air conditioner or furnace when it’s needed, and ensuring they turn off when they’re not. Faulty thermostats can cause the system to run when it shouldn’t, leading to higher energy bills and sub-standard cooling performance. Fortunately, there are many signs that indicate you may need to call an AC repair technician for thermostat issues.
When a thermostat’s sensor fails, it can send inaccurate information to the unit’s brain. The result will be the AC system running when it shouldn’t, resulting in overworking the compressor and evaporator coil. Eventually, this will result in premature and expensive equipment failure.
If your thermostat isn’t working at all, it could be a sign of a power issue. Make sure the battery is in good shape, or replace it if necessary. You can also check the breaker box to see if it’s been flipped off by a power outage or other issue.
Another common thermostat problem is the display screen or backlight stopping working. This could be a sign of a simple software fix, but it can also be a signal that the thermostat isn’t functioning correctly. If you have a manual thermostat, the user’s manual should contain instructions for testing or resetting it.
Finally, if your thermostat cycles on and off frequently, it’s likely that the internal circuitry has worn out. This can put unnecessary stress on the compressor and fan motors, shortening their lifespans.
Trying to DIY your thermostat repairs isn’t recommended, as this can lead to further damage to other parts of the system. It can also invalidate any manufacturer warranties, which could be costly in the long run. It’s always best to leave any complex issues to qualified professionals. This will help you save money, avoid progressive problems, and reduce your risk of an untimely and potentially dangerous system failure. Contact an HVAC maintenance company to schedule a service appointment today. Our technicians can diagnose and fix the thermostat problem, putting your system back into the right operating condition. We can even install a new unit for you when the time comes.
Leaking Refrigerant
Leaks are one of the most common AC repair problems. A leak can be caused by cracks or holes in the parts that distribute refrigerant, such as the compressor or evaporator coils. It can also be caused by faulty or worn-out components, such as the condensate drain line or a faulty defrost valve.
In addition to wasting energy and money, leaks can pose health risks. Refrigerant gases like Freon can be toxic if inhaled. If your air conditioning system is leaking, it’s important to have it repaired immediately.
Refrigerant leaks are often hard to spot. A hissing sound from the system is a common sign of a leak. Another sign is a high energy bill. This is because the system will have to work harder to cool your home if it’s low on refrigerant.
If you suspect a leak, it’s important to turn off the air conditioner and unplug it. Then, you can try to find the source of the leak. If the leak is small, you can seal it with tape or duct repair sealant. If the leak is larger, you’ll need to call an HVAC contractor for professional repairs.
A hissing sound from the AC system is a common sign of a refrigerant leak. Other signs include warm air from the vents and a high energy bill.
Whether you have an older or newer air conditioning unit, a leak can be costly. Luckily, you can reduce your chances of a leak by regularly having the system inspected.
While most AC contractors are licensed and insured, it’s important to check customer reviews before hiring a company. Look for companies that have an excellent rating on the Better Business Bureau website and a good reputation in your community.
Besides causing AC system failure, AC leaks can affect your health by creating a breeding ground for harmful bacteria. These bacteria can cause skin infections and lead to more serious health issues if left unaddressed. By addressing AC leaks promptly, you can create a healthy indoor environment for your family and protect your financial investments.
Clogged Ductwork
Air ducts may seem invisible, but they make a big impact on your system’s overall function. They help your HVAC unit circulate conditioned air throughout your entire house, improving indoor climate and increasing your home’s energy efficiency. However, clogged ducts can cause serious problems.
The main problem that occurs when a duct becomes clogged is that it causes air to blow out of your vents at an insufficient rate. The airflow is not enough to cool your space, which can lead to a feeling of stuffiness and staleness. Additionally, you might notice an unusual spike in your energy bills. The reason why is simple: Your system will have to work harder and longer just to circulate the same amount of air.
You can check for clogs by simply looking at your vents. If they look dirty or dusty, it’s likely because they are obstructed by furniture or other objects. If you find this to be the case, try rearranging your furniture and vacuuming the vents to fix this problem. However, a clog that is too far inside the duct will require professional intervention to remove.
Another common problem that can occur with clogged ducts is leaks. Whether it’s caused by a direct impact or because of worn down duct insulation, these leaks can cause a lot of wasted energy.
In addition to wasting energy, leaking ducts also allow dirt and other contaminants to enter your home. These can lead to a number of health problems, including respiratory issues and allergic reactions.
One way to prevent duct clogs is to install filters in your vents. These will catch lint and other debris from entering the ducts. Another way is to have your ductwork cleaned regularly. Professionals will use a combination of brushes and vacuums to clean out your ducts and clear away any accumulated debris.
Besides cleaning the ducts, professional technicians will also inspect them for leaks, rust, gaps, and loose connections. They will also seal and insulate ductwork when necessary. They can also replace your ductwork if it is damaged or inefficient.
Dirty Evaporator Coil
The evaporator coil in an air conditioner is designed to absorb heat from the air that circulates through it. It is one of the most important parts of your system, but it can also spell trouble for your whole system if it gets dirty. Dirty coils can cause a variety of problems, including ice or frost buildup, lower air quality, mold and mildew growth, clogged condensate drain, higher energy bills, and more.
The main problem caused by a dirty evaporator coil is reduced heat absorption. When dirt and dust accumulate on the coil, they act as insulators that hinder efficient heat transfer. This can lead to a significant reduction in your AC’s cooling capacity.
Another problem with a dirty coil is that it can produce unpleasant odors and release harmful pollutants into the air. If there is mold or mildew on the coil, it may release spores into the air, which can lead to respiratory issues for occupants of the home. In addition, the accumulation of moisture on a dirty coil can restrict heat exchange and contribute to ice or frost buildup, which further limits the coil’s ability to absorb heat.
A dirty coil can also clog the condensate drain, which will result in an overflow of condensation. This can create a host of other issues, including reducing the efficiency of your HVAC system, increased energy costs, and damage to your compressor, which will require expensive repair or replacement.
While it is possible to clean a evaporator coil yourself, it’s typically best to let a professional do it. The coil is located inside the internal unit of your AC, and accessing and cleaning it requires special tools and training. In addition, the coil can be dangerous to work on because it is connected to live wires and contains chemicals that can be hazardous if inhaled or touched.
The best way to keep your evaporator coil and the rest of your system clean is to schedule regular maintenance visits with a professional HVAC technician. During these appointments, the technician will inspect and clean the entire system, including the evaporator coil. In addition, the technician will check for any signs of wear and tear that can be addressed before they become serious issues.
