Beat the Heat: Recognizing AC Repair & Essential AC Maintenance
There are a few stages of heat in our area during the transition from late spring to full-on summertime heat.
- There is a pleasant confusion stage. On some days, both heat and air conditioning may be used on the same day—a little crazy, to be sure. During the early morning and late evening, it is pleasant to open windows on days when the pollen count is low.
- There is a comfortable heat stage, as well. It is hot enough to warm the pool water without being stiflingly hot. This stage is sufferable, knowing that the relief of air conditioning lies just beyond the door.
- There is a period of sweltering humidity and wilting heat that drives most people indoors whenever possible.
Americans spend about 90% of their waking hours indoors, for this very reason—to escape from the vagaries of seasonal weather. Since this is the case, here are a few AC repair tips for proper care of residential air conditioners.
Signs of AC Repair Trouble
Notice things that you feel. When all is well, indoor spaces feel comfortable. When an air conditioner is under stress and performing its functions poorly, the difference is quite noticeable.
- The air conditioner blows warmer air than normal and the cooling cycle does not reach the desired temperature setting.
- The relative humidity indoors is much higher than normal, matching the high humidity of outdoor spaces.
Explore unusual noises. Whenever a mechanical device begins making an unusual or loud noise, it should always be investigated; this is especially true of an air conditioner/HVAC system.
- The only real moving part in an HVAC system is the blower motor, so this component is the most likely to create loud and unusual noises. Start your noise investigation with the blower motor.
- When electrical parts weaken, they may emit a loud buzzing or humming noise. This will not go away by itself or improve, so let someone with training explore the cause.
Do not ignore odd smells. The air conditioner moves air without contributing to its odor. Any unusual or obnoxious smell is an indication that something is amiss. The cause can, indeed, be hazardous to health, so do not delay. If you notice smells coming from your HVAC system, call and schedule your AC repair appointment as soon as possible.
Components That Need Routine AC Repair and Maintenance
An air conditioner system is complex, with electrical, mechanical, and chemical processes interacting in precise sequences. Those key parts include:
- The network of tubes filled with refrigerant gas, which we imprecisely term Freon. This gas is compressed to 400 psi and released to a pressure of about 40 psi, and this happens several times per cooling cycle. The network needs to be tested for leaks annually.
- The network includes two large components, the outdoor condenser unit and the indoor evaporator coil. These two transfer heat very quickly . . . unless they get dirty. They need to be cleaned regularly/annually to enhance the transfer of heat.
- The air filter collects airborne contaminants every time the air conditioner runs. Eventually, the collection of dust, pollen, and dander clog the filter and inhibit airflow. The air filter needs to be changed quarterly.
- The thermostat is the small “ON/OFF” switch mounted on an indoor wall. It is a small, battery-powered computer, giving and receiving a lot of data. The batteries need to be changed annually, and they need to be calibrated occasionally.
Since more homeowners are not trained and do not have the equipment necessary to complete testing and repairs, a preventative maintenance inspection/cleaning should be scheduled annually with your trusted Doctor Cool AC Repair professional.
When Your AC Needs a Hand, Doctor Cool is There
As an award-winning, BBB-accredited AC Repair League City and AC repair and maintenance contractor serving the League City and surrounding area, we pride ourselves on providing exceptional service to our customers. Call Doctor Cool & Professor Heat today at 281-338-8751 or email Doctor Cool.