Air conditioners are necessary to ensure proper air circulation in modern homes, but they need proper maintenance to perform at their best. This includes routine cleaning, lubrication, and refrigerant checks to prevent issues that may require AC Repair. In the event of an emergency, however, it’s important to know which common problems to look out for that can require professional attention.
The most obvious signs of an AC system that needs to be repaired include high energy bills, decreased cooling efficiency, strange noises, or foul odors. These symptoms can often be remedied by simple AC repairs, but if left unchecked they can lead to expensive, complex issues down the line.
If you are experiencing any of these signs, the first thing to do is to ensure that your vents and registers are open in all rooms of your home. If they are blocked by furniture, it can restrict airflow and lead to additional problems for your air conditioner. Next, check to see if your thermostat is working correctly. If it is not sending a cooling signal to the system, it can cause it to stop running. If you notice a dirty filter, it could also be causing your system to run inefficiently.
A clogged air filter can prevent the coil from properly absorbing heat from your house’s air, leading to increased energy bills and possibly even damage to your compressor. It is also possible that the condenser fan has become bent or damaged, which will prevent your AC system from turning on. Fortunately, this is an easy AC repair that can usually be fixed by your technician.
Capacitors aren’t the only electrical components prone to wear and tear in your AC system. The contactor—a type of switch that is responsible for turning on and off your system’s compressor and fan motor—is another part that could break down over time. If the contactor becomes corroded or opens up, it won’t be able to transmit electricity, and your air conditioner won’t turn on.
A faulty service valve can also prevent your AC from cooling properly. The service valve—a large plastic tube that sits at the bottom of your condenser—is designed to allow your HVAC technician to service the unit without affecting the refrigerant flow, but it can break or get clogged if something slams into it. Fortunately, this is also an easy fix for a professional that shouldn’t take more than an hour or so.
A repair company can help to keep your AC functioning at its best, but it is important to note that repairing older systems can only mask certain difficulties and will ultimately limit their lifespans. Newer systems are designed to adhere to higher energy efficiency ratings and can cool spaces more efficiently and effectively. Investing in frequent AC repairs can often add up to a total cost that is comparable to or exceed the price of a new system. For this reason, if you are considering AC repair, it’s essential to weigh the pros and cons of each option carefully.