Trouble Brewing? Watch for These AC Repair Issues Before Summer
The cooling season is about to begin in earnest. At this point, cooling cycles are fewer and shorter than one might expect later in the summer. Some days, air conditioning might not be needed, but a few cycles per day. The day is coming, and coming quickly, when air conditioning will become quite necessary for the health and comfort of family members.
If an air conditioner problem presents itself, the time for such a presentation is coming quickly. It is in a homeowner’s best interest to recognize common AC repair problems.
- No Power
If the home has power but the air conditioner does not, first check the electrical service panel for a tripped circuit breaker labeled AC. Turn the breaker completely OFF, then to the ON position. If this works, that is good. If the circuit breaker trips again, it is best to call a technician.
There may also be a circuit breaker on the air handler closet; resetting this breaker may also be helpful.
- Power, But No Cooling
If the air coming from supply vents is warm or not as cool as usual, there are several steps to take. First, check the air filter found on the lower portion of the air handler cabinet. A clogged air filter restricts the airflow through the evaporator (cooling) chamber and limits the amount of cooling that can happen. A dirty condenser unit can also inhibit cooling; use a garden hose to wash away the dust and debris collecting on the condenser walls.
Another reason for low or no cooling might be the loss of refrigerant (commonly called Freon) from the system. The gas is kept under pressure, so even a pinhole leak will result in the loss of all refrigerant, resulting in no cooling. A homeowner may not be aware of the leak, but a few telltale signs can give it away.
Ice development on the coils or coolant pipes indicates a loss of refrigerant. When the ice begins to melt, water will leak out of the air handler closet onto the floor, or, you may find the ice melting off of the outdoor condenser unit.
- High Humidity
If the indoor air leaves skin and surfaces moist and sticky, start by checking the air filter. The air passing through the filter enters the evaporator chamber, the place that moisture condenses and drains away. A new filter may allow this process to happen again. Another reason for high humidity may be the loss of refrigerant, as mentioned above.
- Unusual Sounds or Smells
The normal sounds of an air conditioning system is a faint noise of the blower motor and a pleasant whooshing sound. If new noises, grinding, screeching, or loud buzzing noises occur, this indicates a problem that has developed that needs to be addressed by a technician. Grinding or screeching noises are usually generated by an ailing blower motor, while buzzing can be generated by any electrical component governing large heavy currents.
- High Electricity Bills
Failing electrical components require more electricity. When an unexplained rise in the electrical bill happens, it might be attributable to a problem with the air conditioner controls.
- Age
The normal useful lifespan for air conditioner systems range between 15 and 20 years. Determining the age of an air conditioner can help a homeowner decide whether to make an expensive AC repair or prepare to replace the system in a timely manner.
Cooling Season Prep: Call Doctor Cool If You See These AC Repair Warning Signs
As an award-winning, BBB-accredited AC Repair League City and HVAC installation contractor serving the League City and surrounding area, we pride ourselves in providing exceptional service to our customers. Call Doctor Cool & Professor Heat today at 281-338-8751 or email Doctor Cool.