Many air condition repair issues can be resolved with a few simple steps. The key is to act fast, as delaying repairs can lead to bigger problems.
The first step is to check the circuit breaker for the AC unit and flip it back on. You can also use a multimeter to test for blown fuses. Check out Ausco Air Heating & Air Conditioning for more details.
Thermostats
Your thermostat is the brains of your air conditioner and heater, ensuring that they function correctly to provide comfortable indoor temperatures. If the thermostat isn’t functioning properly, the entire system may not be working well and you will need to contact an AC repair company for service. Keeping an eye out for common thermostat problems can help you avoid costly repairs.
Thermostats detect the temperature of the air and turn on your air conditioner when that temperature increases to a predetermined level. They also shut off the system when they have sensed that the home has cooled down enough. This is a huge responsibility for your thermostats, and it’s no wonder that they have some issues from time to time.
One of the most common problems that thermostats encounter is simply not turning on when they receive a signal from the air conditioning unit. This is usually due to dead batteries. Replacing the batteries should fix this problem, but if it doesn’t you’ll need to call in a professional for a thermostat replacement.
Another reason that your thermostat might not be functioning is because it’s been miscalibrated. This occurs when the sensor inside of your thermostat incorrectly reads the temperature and gives inaccurate readings. This could cause the AC to turn on when it shouldn’t or to stay on longer than necessary, costing you money. A technician can recalibrate your thermostat so it gives accurate readings again.
Other issues that can affect thermostat function include dust, nicotine buildup, and old age. It’s important to clean your thermostat regularly and change the batteries once a year. You should also check the wiring to ensure that it is not tampered with or loose. A wiring problem is best handled by a professional to prevent serious safety concerns.
If you have tried changing the batteries, checking the wiring, and cleaning your thermostat but still can’t get it to work, then it’s time to call in a professional. A reputable AC company will be able to replace your thermostat or upgrade it to a programmable model that can help you save even more money on your energy bills.
Compressors
The compressor is one of the most crucial components in your air conditioning unit. It circulates the refrigerant needed for heat exchange through the condenser and evaporator coils. It also applies the energy required to convert the refrigerant into cold air. This means that any malfunction of the compressor will have a significant impact on the overall performance of your system.
The most obvious sign of a faulty compressor is that your AC no longer produces cool air. This could mean that the compressor is not able to transfer heat through the condenser and evaporator. It may be because of a lack of refrigerant, or it could be that there is a problem with the pressure or temperature in the system. It could even be due to a broken thermostat, which is unable to properly measure the refrigerant temperature.
Another common sign of a bad compressor is an increase in your energy bills. This is because an overworked compressor will be unable to keep up with the cooling demands of your home, meaning that it will have to constantly cycle on and off in an attempt to achieve the desired results. The other possible indicator of a problem with the compressor is the sound of strange noises. These noises can range from a grinding to a hissing sound, and they are often the result of mechanical problems within the compressor.
It is important to remember that the compressor is a sensitive component and that it should only be repaired by professionals with the necessary experience and equipment. If you try to repair it yourself, you risk damaging other parts of your system and compromising the quality of your air conditioning. It is also a good idea to consider the age of your compressor, as older models tend to be more prone to damage and failure than newer units.
Regularly maintaining your compressor by keeping the area around it free of debris and scheduling routine maintenance visits can help to prolong its lifespan and prevent air condition repair issues. It is also a good idea to stay aware of the signs of a bad compressor, and to respond quickly to any issues that you notice.
Fans
The fan in an air conditioner is responsible for pulling in the air, cooling it down and blowing it out of your vents. This is why fans that aren’t working properly can make your home or office uncomfortable in a hurry.
There are a few different things that can cause your AC fan to stop spinning, including electrical problems. If the capacitor is damaged, it can stop supplying energy to the fans located inside and outside of your unit. If you hear a clicking noise, this is another sign that the capacitor has failed and will need to be replaced.
Another potential problem with your fan is that it could be the result of a lack of maintenance on your AC system. If your AC system is not getting a good cleaning and service on an annual basis, it can lead to problems with the motor bearings. A professional technician will be able to diagnose this problem and recommend the necessary services to fix it.
Sometimes the issue isn’t with the fans at all but rather that your air conditioning unit is not receiving power to start them up. This can happen if various components overheat and trip the breaker switch for your air conditioner. You can try flipping the switch at your circuit breaker box back on, but repeated power issues should be looked at by a professional.
In some cases, it might be that the thermostat is set to heating instead of cooling or that the programmable settings aren’t correct. This can cause the fan to turn on but not run, and this is something you can easily check with a quick call to your HVAC technician.
The final possibility is that the fan blades are broken and need to be repaired or replaced. This isn’t an easy job to take on yourself, and it is definitely best left to a professional. They will be able to assess whether the fan blades are bent or if they have completely broken off and replace them as needed. This is a common problem with older models of AC units, and a good reason to keep up with routine maintenance on your unit!
Drainage
A well-functioning AC condensate drain line should allow moisture that has been extracted from the air to drip into a pan and then drain away. If this drainage system becomes clogged, the water can back up into your home and damage walls, carpets, flooring and other fixtures. This clog can be caused by algae, dirt or dust that accumulates inside the line. A wet/dry vacuum or a commercial cleaning solution designed for PVC drain lines can be used to remove a small clog, but if you have a severe problem, it may be best to call in an HVAC professional.
A major indicator of a blocked condensate drain line is water leaking into the air handler unit itself or dripping down the side of the house. This can cause mold and mildew growth and create a damp, musty odor. It is also a common cause of pest infestation, as insects will enter your home looking for a source of water.
Your central air conditioner should have a U-shaped trap in the condensation drain line, similar to that of a toilet drain. This is meant to prevent sewer gas, which contains high levels of hydrogen sulfide, from entering your home through the condensation drain line. If this trap dries up, it can lead to foul smells and even a dangerous situation where the sewer line can back up into your home. A certified technician should check the drain line to ensure it is properly sealed and if necessary, will refill the trap with water.
Regular inspections and maintenance by a qualified Mauzy HVAC technician can help to prevent drainage issues from becoming severe problems that require costly repair services. They will check the drain line for blockages and clean it out, flushing it with vinegar or bleach to kill any algae and bacteria that might be growing inside. They will also check the air handler unit itself for signs of a clogged drain line and make sure that the drain pan is properly sealed to avoid leaks. By catching minor drainage issues early, homeowners can save thousands of dollars in air condition repairs down the road.
