Before you call a pro for an air conditioning repair, make sure your AC unit is working properly. This includes examining coolant lines for broken wires, rodent nests, and chewed insulation; cleaning the tray that carries condensation away from the evaporator; removing, replacing, and taping access-panel retaining screws; and maintaining air filters and drain pans.
A dirty evaporator coil is one of the most common AC problems. This important component cycles refrigerant, and if it becomes too dirty, your air conditioner won’t be able to absorb heat from the house or cool it down as effectively. Dirty evaporator coils also cause your AC to work harder and can shorten its lifespan. Contact Air Conditioning Repair Round Rock TX for expert guidance.
You can prevent a dirty evaporator coil by taking steps to keep the area around it clean and free of debris. Trimming any shrubs, keeping dryer vents clear and cleaning the area regularly can all help keep dirt away from the coil. You should also minimize the amount of debris near your unit by keeping your lawn mower, fallen leaves and other yard waste away from it as much as possible.
Signs of a dirty evaporator coil include noticing that your home isn’t as cool as it used to be. It may also seem that the AC runs continuously, even when it isn’t trying to cool your home.
These issues can be caused by a few things, but a dirty evaporator coil is usually to blame. Dirty evaporator coils don’t cool as well because the dirt restricts the rate at which air flows through them, making it hard for your AC to absorb heat from the house.
Another problem with dirty evaporator coils is that they become an ideal breeding ground for mold and bacteria. This can cause musty odors in your home and make people with allergies or respiratory conditions feel worse. The moisture from the coil can also cause a buildup of organic matter like pollen and pet dander that circulates throughout your home when the air conditioning system is running.
Getting a dirty evaporator coil cleaned isn’t hard, but you must make sure the power to your AC is completely off before you open the access panel and look at the coil. Your owner’s manual should have detailed instructions for how to locate the coil and how to safely access it. It’s also a good idea to have an experienced AC service professional show you where the coil is and how to get to it during your regular maintenance appointments.
Dirty Compressor Coils
Your air conditioner system works by absorbing heat from the indoor air and carrying it outside, where it is replaced with cold air. If the compressor coils are dirty, your system won’t be able to effectively reject heat. This means it will work longer and harder to cool your home, driving up cooling costs and possibly leading to equipment breakdowns and a reduced lifespan for the system.
Air conditioning systems are built to defend their condenser coils from the elements, but dirt and debris inevitably get inside the unit. The most common signs of a dirty coil are reduced cooling capacity, higher energy bills and ice formation. Your dealer will remove the outer casing and top of the unit to expose the coils, which will be inspected for dirt and debris accumulation. He or she will then clean the coils using a shop vac or a commercially available coil cleaning product. This will usually include blowing the air past the fins to remove any loose material and straightening bent fins, if necessary.
Another sign that the condenser coil needs cleaning is a sudden increase in your energy bill. Dirty AC coils force your system to run longer because it’s not as effective at transferring heat. It also puts excess strain on other parts of your system, including the fan motor and compressor, which can cause premature wear and tear and increased maintenance costs.
If you have a dirty condenser coil, it’s important to act quickly. The best way to keep your coils clean is with regular professional maintenance and preventive measures, such as replacing your air filter, keeping a safe distance between the outdoor unit and any objects that could interfere with airflow, and considering professional coil cleaning on a scheduled basis.
Your local ROX dealer can perform air conditioning services, such as cleaning your condenser coils and changing your air filter. To schedule service, simply visit our online scheduler or click the orange “schedule now” button located on each participating dealer’s profile page. For even more convenience, consider joining our Priority Comfort Club to receive routine maintenance and priority service when you need it most.
Low Coolant Levels
If the air from your vents or heat pump is lukewarm, that’s a clear indicator that refrigerant levels are low. The evaporator coil needs plenty of refrigerant to absorb heat from the air and cool it down. Low refrigerant levels can cause the evaporator coil to freeze and restrict airflow.
The odor of a strange sweet or acidic smell coming from your home is another clear indication that your AC system has low refrigerant. The odor is caused by refrigerant chemicals, like Freon, leaking into the environment. This is a sign of a major issue that needs to be addressed immediately by an HVAC technician with the proper training to make this repair.
Leaking AC coolant is a surefire indicator that your system has a serious leak. Leaks can occur in a variety of locations, including on or under the compressor. It’s important to have a trained professional identify and repair these leaks, as they can dramatically reduce the efficiency of your air conditioning system.
As time goes on, low coolant levels can also lead to a drop in system pressure and refrigerant levels. This can impact the performance of your air conditioner and could result in a complete system failure if left unchecked.
Low coolant levels may also cause the system to short cycle, which is when it turns on and off frequently in order to maintain a desired temperature. This can be extremely irritating for homeowners and commercial customers. It can lead to higher humidity levels in the air, which will lead to an uncomfortable indoor muggy feeling.
The easiest way to check your coolant levels is to simply look at the coolant reservoir in your car’s engine bay. The level should be in the middle of the H and C marks on the gauge. If the levels are lower than this, it’s time to visit a trusted auto shop for an AC inspection and possible repairs.
Faulty Thermostat
Thermostats are vital to the function of your HVAC system, so a faulty thermostat can cause problems that impact your home’s comfort and lead to higher energy bills. However, the good news is that many issues with thermostats are simple to resolve and can save you from a costly repair call.
If nothing happens when you adjust the temperature settings on your thermostat, the first thing you should do is make sure that it’s getting power. If the display is dark or blank, even with a new set of batteries, there’s a chance that the thermostat is not receiving enough power to operate. It may also be a sign that your circuit breaker is tripped, so head to your electrical panel and flip the switch.
Another easy fix is to check that your thermostat’s wiring connections are secure. A loose connection can affect the ability of the thermostat to communicate with your air conditioning system. If you suspect that your thermostat’s wiring is faulty, consult with an HVAC technician to troubleshoot and solve the problem.
Inaccurate thermostat readings are another common thermostat issue that can affect air conditioning performance. If the reading on your thermostat doesn’t match the temperature in the room, it’s likely that the sensor is failing or the thermostat needs to be calibrated.
A faulty thermostat can also be the result of an improper install, so it’s important to hire certified HVAC professionals to work on your heating and cooling systems. An incorrectly installed thermostat can cause wiring issues, temperature sensor issues and short cycling of your air conditioner that can lead to higher energy bills.
If you have tried these simple fixes and your air conditioner still won’t turn on, contact the AC experts for a professional diagnosis. We can help you resolve the problem and get your home comfortable again in no time. Schedule an appointment with us here!