AC repair is the process of restoring an air conditioning unit to working order. It includes examining all components, servicing what needs to be serviced and performing any necessary repairs.
Some problems are minor and can be addressed with at-home fixes, but others may require a professional inspection to prevent expensive damage. Here are ten signs it’s time to call in an AC repair. Contact Ausco Air Heating & Air Conditioning for professional help.
Air filters allow for proper airflow throughout the system, helping it to maintain energy efficiency and prevent cooling problems. When they get dirty or clogged, however, the AC has to work harder to circulate air. The extra workload can lead to higher power bills and reduced performance. It can also strain components to the point that they wear out more quickly and fail prematurely. Fortunately, there are a number of warning signs to watch for that signal it’s time to swap out your filter.
One of the most common indicators is the appearance of visible dust or a buildup of clumps of dirt clinging to vents or surfaces in your home. A clogged filter can also cause indoor air quality issues like odors or increased allergies. Regardless of the issue, replacing a dirty filter is a fast, simple and inexpensive fix.
You can check your air filter by turning off the thermostat and locating your return vents. Look for covers that look like louvered cabinet doors and remove them to reveal the air filter inside. Alternatively, you can go to your electrical panel and locate the breaker that controls the air conditioning unit. Flip it to the on position and try starting your system again.
If you hear a whistling noise from the return vent, that’s another sign your air flow is obstructed by the dirty filter. This can cause the fan to blow hot air into your attic or crawl space, which could damage the ductwork.
The airflow problem may also be caused by ice on the evaporator coil. A professional technician will thaw the coil and replace the air filter, but you can start by checking the air flow. If the airflow is good, the ice probably just needs to thaw.
Keeping your air filter clean and replacing it as needed is a simple way to protect your investment in an efficient and effective HVAC system. Bob’s Repair offers a variety of filter options to suit the needs of your property, including high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters. Contact us today to learn more about our services, and schedule your next AC maintenance visit.
Clean the Condenser Coil
The evaporator and condenser coils are the heart of your AC system. They are responsible for cooling the air in your home or business, and they transfer heat by passing hot air over a network of aluminum fins. However, if these coils become dirty or covered in dust, they can’t perform their jobs properly. This can significantly impact your energy bills and decrease your system’s lifespan. Performing regular cleanings can help prevent these issues from occurring, as well as lower your energy bills.
You can clean your evaporator and condenser ac coils by following some simple steps. First, turn off the power to your unit for safety. This is typically done by locating and opening your exterior breaker box and shutting it down completely. You may also want to check your home’s interior breaker to be certain that it is fully turned off. Once the power is off, you can begin to work on your coils.
Before you start cleaning, it is a good idea to locate any screws or bolts holding the access panel to the coil in place. These can be removed using a screwdriver or drill and set aside in a safe location so they don’t get lost while you are working on the AC unit. Next, remove the panel to expose the ac coils. It’s a good idea to use a pair of gloves for this task, as the fins of the coil can be sharp and potentially dangerous to touch.
Once the cover is off, you can start to clean the ac coils. A nylon scrub brush can be used to scrape away any large chunks of dirt or dust from the coil. For really caked on dirt, a coil cleaner can be used in combination with the brush. Finally, a fin brush can be used to straighten out any bent coil fins and ensure that the best air flow is achieved.
You can also rinse the ac coils with a hose at low pressure, which helps to eliminate any remaining debris. It’s important to avoid using too much water, as the coils can become damaged or rusty from excess moisture. By using the right tools, taking the proper safety precautions, and completing a routine cleaning, you can significantly reduce your energy bills and increase the longevity of your ac system.
Check for Pests
When pests invade your air conditioning unit, they can create a number of issues. Rodents and insects can chew through wiring, contaminate insulation, or clog air filters. They can also cause damage to the system itself and lower efficiency. Aside from their obvious annoyance, pests can also carry diseases and exacerbate poor indoor air quality.
To keep pests out of your HVAC system, you can do a few things. First, check regularly for signs of pest activity, such as droppings or nesting areas. Second, be sure to trim vegetation around your outdoor unit to minimize the risk of pests accessing the system or hiding underneath it. Finally, make sure to clean your AC vents and ducts regularly to prevent dust accumulation, which may attract pests.
Leaks are another common issue that can draw pests to your system. If you notice moisture around your outdoor unit, it’s important to drain the water and take action before it reaches the condenser coils. Leaks can lead to extensive damage, so it’s best to contact a professional as soon as possible to address the issue before it worsens.
Insects and rodents can enter your HVAC system through the smallest openings, so it’s crucial to seal gaps in ductwork and other entry points. You can use duct tape or caulk to do this, and it will also improve airflow and reduce energy waste.
Installing screens on your air conditioner vents is another way to deter pests and maintain proper air flow. You can purchase special vent covers designed for this purpose, or you can use window mesh to accomplish the same effect.
Keeping your home and outdoor equipment free of pests is essential to avoid costly repairs, maintain efficiency, and improve indoor air quality. Regular maintenance will help catch pests before they become a problem, so don’t skip scheduled tune-ups!
Reset the Breaker
Resetting the breaker when performing an AC repair is one of the most common and affordable ways to get your system back up and running. When the breaker trips, it protects appliances against excessive voltage that could otherwise cause fires or other dangerous problems. When it flips back on, the unit is ready to work again. The simplest way to do this is by going to your home’s electrical panel and finding the breaker switch that runs to your air conditioner. Turn it off, then back on, then wait a few minutes before turning your thermostat back to “cool”.
Airflow problems are another common AC repair that can be resolved by simply resetting the breaker. Furniture, toys, drapes, and other household items can block airflow through your return and supply vents. Make sure to walk through your home and clear any obstructions. Additionally, the outdoor air conditioning unit needs to be free from leaves, sticks, and other debris that can build up inside and around it.
A faulty compressor is another common AC issue that can be addressed with a simple breaker reset. The compressor is the component that releases heat from your house, converting it into cool air. A failing compressor can often be spotted by loud noises or warm air blowing from your vents. The best way to prevent a failed compressor is by keeping up with regular maintenance.
Finally, refrigerant leaks are a serious problem that can be prevented by proper AC maintenance. Leaks can lead to higher energy bills, environmental damage, and reduced cooling efficiency. The most common sign of a leak is the hissing sound that you hear when turning on your air conditioner. If you hear this, schedule an immediate AC repair from your local HVAC technician.
While most AC issues can be fixed with routine maintenance or a simple breaker reset, it’s always best to call an HVAC professional for any major repairs or replacements. An expert will be able to give you a more accurate estimate of the cost of a new system vs. repair costs and help you decide what your next step should be.