How Do I Fix My AC Problems?
Posted On August 1, 2024
While replacing a capacitor or recharging refrigerant can be potentially dangerous, there are some air conditioner repair jobs you can do on your own. Before you can fix an issue, you first have to figure out what is causing it. You should also make sure to take care of all your ongoing maintenance tasks so that future repairs are less likely.
One of the best ways to avoid costly repairs is through annual air conditioner maintenance appointments. Additionally, there are a few AC maintenance tips you can perform on your own.
What Are Common Signs That You Have an AC Problem?
Before you worry about an AC installation or repair, you first need to see if you have a problem. The following list includes the most common indicators of an issue.- High electricity bills
- Weird noises
- Lower energy efficiency
- Frequent cycling on and off
- Unusual smells, like a burning or sweet scent
- High humidity
- Leaking water
- Lack of cold air
- No airflow
- AC remaining on to cool properly
What Are the Most Common AC Problems?
According to the Energy Department, the most common AC issues involve maintenance, refrigerant, electrical components, drainage, and sensor problems.Poor Maintenance
While AC maintenance is one of the most common air conditioner repair issues, it is also one of the easiest problems to fix. To fix this issue, start by cleaning the filters, removing weeds from around the unit, and scheduling your annual tune-up.Refrigerant Leaks
If your AC isn’t blowing cold air or it keeps freezing, you might be dealing with a refrigerant leak. Fortunately, you probably won’t need to get a full air conditioner replacement. Instead, you can have one of our HVAC technicians recharge the refrigerant so that it works properly again.Faulty Electrical Components
Faulty electrical components aren’t an AC problem that you want to try to repair on your own. Some parts of the AC, like the capacitor, can cause electrical shocks if the AC repair is done incorrectly. With air conditioner repair services, you can get the capacitor, terminals, wires, and other electrical parts replaced whenever necessary.Drainage Problems
To fix your drainage problems, start by inspecting the condensate drain line. This drain line is intended to remove moisture from your unit and take it outside of your home. If it is clogged, you may find puddles of water. When the clog is excessive, it can even trigger your AC to turn off. Fortunately, clogged drain lines are fairly easy to fix. All you need to do is remove any dirt, debris, mold, or plant matter that is in the line.Sensor Issues
The thermostat contains a sensor that detects the room’s temperature and signals the AC to turn on or off accordingly. If the temperature varies from your preset level, the sensor signals your AC to turn on. Sometimes, the sensor can become dirty or knocked out of place. When this happens, your AC may turn on and off erratically. It may also stay on for extended periods of time if it incorrectly thinks that the temperature is too high. To fix this problem, start by finding the sensor. Clean any dust or dirt away. If this doesn’t work, you can call us to see about getting a new thermostat installed.Is It Possible to Repair AC Issues on Your Own?
On occasion, you can fix some AC repair issues on your own. However, you don’t want to deal with mechanical problems, electrical issues, and refrigerant leaks by yourself. In fact, refrigerants are so hazardous that there are laws limiting who is allowed to work with them. Any issues that involve your capacitor, compressor, or coils are generally better to leave for the professionals to handle. You can clean the coils if you’re mechanically inclined, but you have to be careful not to bend any fins or disturb any pipes around the coils. Capacitor issues are one of the air conditioner repairs that you should always leave for a professional. A capacitor stores and releases electricity, so it can be extremely dangerous to work on. If you think an electrical problem or capacitor is to blame, you can call one of our HVAC technicians for expert help.Air Conditioner Maintenance Tips to Use With Your AC
One of the best ways to avoid costly repairs is through annual air conditioner maintenance appointments. Additionally, there are a few AC maintenance tips you can perform on your own.
- Change Your Filters: To prevent clogged filters and issues with your evaporator coils, clean or replace your AC filters every 30 to 90 days.
- Clean Around the Unit: Remove any plants and debris within 2 to 3 feet of your AC unit.
- Inspect and Clean Your Vents: For good airflow, clean your vents and registers. Make sure there isn’t any furniture or other items blocking the registers and vents.
- Use a Programmable or Smart Thermostat: If you get a programmable thermostat, you can use it to set different temperatures for when you’re away from home. By running your unit a little less, you can save on power and decrease the wear on your system.
- Clean Your Condenser Coils: If you have experience cleaning your condenser coils, you can remove dirt and debris so that they operate more efficiently.
- Schedule an Annual Appointment: An annual inspection isn’t just a good way to increase your AC’s longevity. Your warranty may also require regular inspections. Ideally, you should get your AC checked out in springtime before the weather becomes hot. If you forget, make sure you do it as soon as you can.
Fix Your AC Problems Right Away
While dealing with emergency AC repair is never fun, you don’t have to handle a malfunction on your own. With the help of our experienced technicians, you can quickly get your AC diagnosed and repaired. To learn more about our air conditioner repair options, reach out to Rogue Valley Cooling today.Service Request
"*" indicates required fields