How to Fix Common AC Repair Problems

When your air conditioner breaks down it can be very stressful. It’s especially frustrating when the problem occurs on a hot, balmy day when you desperately need cool air!

Fortunately, most AC repairs are minor problems that can be easily fixed. By keeping up with routine maintenance you can reduce the likelihood of a breakdown and extend the life of your unit. For professional help, contact AC Repair Sherman Oaks.

One of the most common air conditioner problems is a dirty filter. This problem is easily fixed by simply replacing the filter with a clean one. This is a simple and inexpensive way to promote HVAC efficiency and improve your home’s air quality.

Dirty filters allow dust, dander and other debris to flow into your duct system where it gets distributed throughout your house or business. This dirt can cause a variety of issues from asthma and respiratory problems to mold in your ducts. It can also lead to a number of physical symptoms including headaches, fatigue, and tightness in the chest.

A dirty air filter reduces the airflow through your HVAC system causing it to work harder to reach your desired temperature. This extra strain can exacerbate minor mechanical problems and increase your energy bills. A dirty filter can even lead to a full breakdown of your HVAC system and expensive repairs.

Keeping your filters clean is an essential part of regular AC maintenance. A clean air filter can help your system run efficiently and keep your home or business cool all summer long.

If you suspect your air filter is dirty, you can check it by holding it up to the light. A clean filter allows the light to pass through freely while a dirty one will block it completely. If your filter is dirty, you should replace it immediately. Be sure to reinstall your new filter carefully in the same orientation as the old one. You should also note the filter’s airflow direction which is marked on it. If you’re using a reusable filter, wash it according to the manufacturer’s instructions before reinstalling it.

Faulty Thermostat

The thermostat is one of the most important components in an air conditioning unit. It controls when your home comfort system comes on and off, so if it’s not functioning correctly, it can cause problems throughout the house. A thermostat that’s acting erratically can cycle on and off before the air in your home is cold enough or it could simply read the temperature incorrectly and not turn on at all.

The most common sign that your thermostat is on the fritz is if the display screen is completely dark. If this is happening, first make sure the power switch is on and then try changing the batteries. If this doesn’t fix the problem, you may need to call a professional.

In many cases, a thermostat isn’t working properly due to a programming issue. It could be set for the wrong type of equipment, running a preprogrammed schedule, or it might have loose wiring connections. A licensed HVAC technician can check the thermostat’s internal settings and determine if there are any issues with the motherboard that are causing it to not function properly.

It’s also possible that your thermostat is dirty and needs to be cleaned. Dust, soot, cigarette smoke, and other debris can build up over time, causing mechanical and electrical problems with your thermostat. If your thermostat is a programmable model, it’s recommended that you consult the user manual for specific instructions on cleaning and calibrating. Using canned compressed air or a soft brush, remove the cover and clean any visible dirt or dust from the electrical and mechanical parts. You should also inspect the wiring connections to ensure they’re all firmly attached to their mounting screws.

Dirty Ductwork

When dust, dirt, and debris build up in your ducts, the system has to work harder to distribute air throughout the house. This can result in higher energy bills, so it’s important to clean your ducts regularly.

Dirty ducts can cause respiratory problems for household members with asthma, allergies, or sinus conditions. They can also be the source of musty odors that don’t have any other obvious cause.

The dust in your ductwork contains allergens like pollen, pet dander, and mold spores. It can also harbor bacteria and microorganisms that can lead to infections. Not only does this increase the amount of airborne pollutants, but it can also make them spread faster. They may end up on tables, smart phones, and children’s toys.

Another sign that your ductwork is dirty is unexplained temperature differences between rooms in the home. This can be caused by blockages or leaks that restrict airflow through the ducts. It’s also possible that vermin such as rodents, insects, and roaches have set up nesting sites in your ductwork. The droppings and shells they leave behind can make you and your family sick.

Leaky ducts are a common issue for homeowners. They can allow cool air to escape and warm air to enter, leading to an imbalance in the house’s temperature. They can also lead to the growth of mold and mildew, which are dangerous for your health and home’s structure. It’s best to have your ductwork professionally cleaned to avoid these issues. A professional will be able to use tools to pressure test your ducts and find the source of the problem. They can then repair or replace the ductwork as needed.

Faulty Compressor

The compressor is the heart of your AC system and it’s vital for transforming refrigerant gas into conditioned air. If the compressor is faulty, your AC won’t cool.

One key sign that your compressor is faulty is if it blows warm air instead of cold. This means that the compressor isn’t able to pump the refrigerant through the system properly. The other sign of a faulty compressor is if it makes a chattering noise when the unit starts up. This sound indicates that the compressor clutch is failing. If this issue is ignored, it can cause the compressor to wear out completely.

Another way to tell if your compressor is faulty is if it keeps tripping the circuit breaker. The circuit breaker trips because the compressor is overheating and drawing too much power. If this occurs, contact an HVAC professional to examine the issue and perform a complete system inspection.

A faulty compressor can also result in the AC condenser coils getting clogged with dirt and debris. This causes the system to work harder to cool the air, which can damage other components and shorten the life of the compressor. If you notice a clogged condenser coil, have it cleaned by a professional to prevent the problem from worsening.

Another common sign that your compressor is faulty is a loud screeching or whining noise when the unit turns on. This is a sign that the compressor clutch is sticking and that it needs to be replaced. This can be fixed by a HVAC professional, but the preferred solution is to replace the entire compressor. As with all mechanical devices, the best way to keep your compressor running smoothly is to have it inspected and serviced regularly.

Faulty Contactor

The contactor is an electrical relay that delivers a low-voltage signal to activate the compressor and fan motor. This switch also connects the high-voltage power needed to start your AC. If the contactor is failing, you may notice humming, buzzing, or chattering sounds when your air conditioner cycles on and off. You’ll likely also experience a higher electricity bill than usual.

Oftentimes, the problem is a simple one that can be fixed at home without the need for professional AC repair. This includes issues such as a dirty contactor that doesn’t deliver the signal it should to the compressor. A faulty contactor can also cause the unit to continue running when it shouldn’t, which will increase your energy consumption and cause the system to overheat.

First, turn off the power supply to your AC contactor and the lighting circuit it controls. Next, remove the contactor cover and visually inspect its coil and contacts for any signs of damage. If the wire insulation has been damaged, you’ll want to have a licensed electrician examine and repair it for you.

If you do find that the contactor is faulty, you can purchase a replacement from your local hardware store or big box store. Make sure you purchase the same size, and use the pictures you took earlier as reference when connecting it to your new wiring. Once you’ve connected the new contactor, restore power to the breaker and the lighting circuit.

In addition to cleaning your air ducts, there are other routine maintenance tasks you should perform on an ongoing basis that can help keep your HVAC system in good working condition. However, when these simple DIY fixes don’t resolve the issue or if your AC is experiencing more advanced problems, you should call in a professional technician with the right tools and experience for an efficient AC repair job.