From Observation to Solution: Navigating Your Next AC Repair
When a new air conditioner is installed, the instructions are very clear—annual, routine maintenance is required to keep the system functioning properly. In fact, extended warranties usually stipulate that records of maintenance be kept for the life of the warranty.
AC repair should be less frequent and less severe with proper maintenance. However, even a well-maintained air conditioner will need occasional AC repair during the twenty or so years of its useful life. When AC repair is necessary, here are a few things to bear in mind.
Observations are helpful; homeowner diagnoses are not so helpful. Key things to observe:
- Has the system lost power that cannot be restored by resetting a circuit breaker?
- If the system is running, is the air cold, warm, or hot? Check the thermostat to determine the difference between the air conditioner setting and the actual temperature inside the home. When the air is warm or hot, humidity is also usually high. Excess moisture may be observed on surfaces—furniture, painted walls, and skin are good examples.
- Listen for loud and unusual noises, such as buzzing, banging, or screeching noises that are not normally a part of a cooling cycle. Don’t touch anything. Listen, locate, and turn the system off to avoid further damage.
- Look around for things that are unusual for a normal air conditioner function. Is water leaking from the air handler cabinet? Can ice be observed on any surface of the system?
- Does anything smell odd?
Keep these details for the AC repair technician’s visit.
Ignoring AC Problems? Why “Wait and See” Costs You More
Wishful thinking and/or time will not make the problem go away.
- An air conditioner is a complex electro-mechanical system, not something that can be fixed with wishful thinking or positive energy. When a problem arises, it requires an actual AC repair appointment with a qualified HVAC technician.
- An air conditioner that is struggling requires more energy to run. It is doing its best to cool to the desired setting, even when it is no longer capable of cooling. Working harder means using more energy, without the desired results, so an air conditioner that needs AC repair costs additional money to continue running.
- Expect air conditioner problems to get worse, not better. Usually, it is best to turn a struggling system completely off instead of letting it run under duress.
Be patient. Emergency AC repair often happens during extended extreme heat (which can take a few weeks in our area). Place the call to schedule your AC repair appointment with DoctorCool.
- To schedule a maintenance visit to clean and inspect your system. This may catch a minor problem before it becomes a major problem.
- Whenever an emergency repair is required, Doctor Cool is here to help 24/7/365.
Trust Doctor Cool for Expert AC Repair
When your AC system shows signs of trouble, a clear understanding of the symptoms, combined with prompt action, is your best strategy. While DIY observations are helpful, remember that an AC unit is a complex system that won’t fix itself; ignoring issues only leads to higher energy bills and more extensive damage.
For reliable AC repair and to ensure your home remains a cool, comfortable sanctuary in the Houston heat, trust the experts at Doctor Cool. Don’t wait for a minor issue to become a major emergency—contact us today to schedule your repair or maintenance and experience the difference of professional care.
Call Doctor Cool & Professor Heat today at 281-338-8751 or email Doctor Cool.