In most states, July and August are the hottest months, and so air conditioner problems tend to go from minor nuisance to a full-blown emergency quickly. In extreme heat, air conditioner problems can even become life-threatening. Because we understand the need to have your AC unit running at 100% efficiency during the summer, here are 4 common air conditioner problems and how to fix them. Often, prevention is the best fix here, and so we’ll also cover essential maintenance that an air conditioner repair company will perform to prevent air conditioner problems in the first place.
Air Filters Problem 1: Air Filters
At City Heating and Air, we talk exhaustively about the importance of routinely changing air filters in your home’s HVAC system. Furthermore, it’s the single biggest issue that HVAC technicians see on house calls to service an air conditioning unit. If your air filter becomes clogged with dust, debris, and animal hair, it will significantly restrict airflow throughout your house and play host to several air conditioner issues. In fact, a clogged air filter can cause your entire air conditioner to freeze up which can overwhelm your condensate drain with melting ice, leading to possible water damage in your house. Additionally, a clogged air filter in your heating and air conditioning unit can cause mechanical problems with your compressor, leading to more expensive repair bills.
Fix 1: Replace Air Filters
If your air conditioning doesn’t seem to be effectively cooling the air, the first thing you should do is examine and change your air filter if it’s dirty. Air filters should be changed regularly, every 1-3 months. Replacing your air filters will likely improve airflow and allow your air conditioner to be more effective at cooling the air inside your home.
Thermostat Problem 2: Bad Thermostat
The thermostat plays one of the most critical roles in your heating and cooling system. It communicates the air temperature in your home to the rest of your HVAC unit and lets it know when it’s time to turn on the blower and begin taking in hot air and dispersing cold air. If your thermostat is incorrectly reading the temperature, then your AC won’t work.
Fix 2: Thermostat
If you have an older model thermostat with a mercury tube in it, you can check to see if it is working by removing the cover and turning the temperature up and then all the way back down. If it is working, you will see a tiny spark inside the tube. These thermostats have made way for newer, digital thermostats, however, and it’s advisable to upgrade to a new model. Replacing your old thermostat with a newer one will not only help the AC know the appropriate time to turn on and off but can also increase the overall energy efficiency of your home; saving you money in the long run.
Water Leaks Problem 3: Water Leaks from Air Conditioner
If you notice any signs of water leaking from your air conditioner or HVAC unit, it should be assessed right away to prevent water damage to your home. Water leaking from your air conditioner could be due to a few reasons. Aside from a clogged air filter causing your evaporator coils to build up ice that overwhelms drainage pans, it can also be caused by a leaking condensate line or a clog in your drain pan.
Fix 3: Water Leaks
A visual examination of your air conditioner is the first step towards diagnosing the problem and fixing it. If you notice that water is running down any hardware in your system, this may be due to a leaking condensate line that can be quickly replaced by an AC repair professional. Alternatively, if you notice standing water in the drainage pan, it could be the air filter causing access thawing of ice and overwhelming the drainage capacity, or it could be a physical obstruction in your drain. You can use a flashlight to examine your HVAC drain for obstructions and remove if easily accessible or you may need the help of an AC technician to remove the blockage.
Low AC Refrigerant Problem 4: Low AC Refrigerant
Another widespread cause of air conditioner problems is a low level of refrigerant. One of the most common diagnoses of low AC refrigerant is discovering that air is blowing out of the vents but is coming out warm. Additionally, if you’ve noticed that your AC is continuously running while simultaneously not creating a comfortable air temperature inside, you may have too low of an AC refrigerant level. A hissing or bubbling noise coming from your HVAC unit or piping is also an indicator that you have a leak in your refrigerant lines.
Fix 4: Low AC Refrigerant
An HVAC technician will often do a visual check of all your refrigerant lines, as well as, use an air temperature gauge in the area around your intake to diagnose an AC refrigerant issue. They will also measure the amount of pressure in your refrigerant line to make sure it is at the proper levels. If the load shows up low, you may need a “refrigerant recharge.” Having a professional refill the freon in your system will also allow them to check the health of your AC system and ensure it is running correctly.
Heating and Air Conditioning Companies in East Tennessee
As an overall fix to common AC problems, make sure to have your home’s HVAC system inspected by a professional heating and air company twice a year (once in the Spring and once in the Fall). By conducting regular maintenance on your system, you should be able to avoid air conditioning problems before they begin. If you’re AC has got you hot under the collar, contact City Heating and Air Conditioning today. Our technicians are standing by to provide emergency services at your home or commercial site. Click the link to find an “air conditioner repair company near me” or call us at (865) 938-1005.