The air conditioning system is one of the most important parts of your home. Its efficiency and functionality depends on the proper functioning of many different parts. The good news is that you can learn to repair and maintain your own system. While a professional should perform most large Air Conditioner Repair jobs, there are many small AC repairs you can do yourself to save money and extend the life of your unit.
A broken air conditioner can lead to high utility bills and uncomfortable indoor temperatures. The good news is that most cooling problems can be avoided with regular maintenance and prompt troubleshooting. You can also reduce the need for major air conditioning repair by doing simple preventative tasks like replacing your filter regularly, scrubbing your condenser coils and trimming foliage around the outdoor unit.
Your air conditioner may not cool your home properly if it’s overworked. If this is the case, it’s usually because the compressor or evaporator coil is clogged with dirt or debris. You can try to clean these components yourself by removing the access plate and using a stiff-bristle brush or a small hand brush to remove dirt from the coils. You can also use a wet/dry shop vacuum to clean the drain line and collection tray. Be sure to replace the access plate and tape any insulation back in place before reinstalling the unit.
An overheated compressor or evaporator coil can cause the system to shut down because of safety sensors. If you’re unable to get the air conditioner running again, call a technician for an inspection and possible ac repair.
Your evaporator coil or fan motor may be defective. If the fan motor isn’t working, it can’t move the heat from your evaporator coil or transfer it to the blower, resulting in warm indoor air. This problem is often caused by a lack of maintenance or an insufficient refrigerant level.
The evaporator coil in your air conditioner can freeze over as a result of continuous operation, a low refrigerant level or poor circulation. The freezing can prevent the coil from absorbing heat from your indoor air, which causes the cooled air to feel warm instead of cold. A technician will likely need to make this air conditioner repair by thawing out the coil.
Air ducts that are blocked, partially blocked or sealed can restrict the flow of air, which can cause uneven and inefficient cooling throughout your home. A certified technician can inspect your ductwork to ensure that it is sealed and insulated properly.
Refrigerant leaks can be expensive to fix, and a licensed technician will need to recharge your air conditioner once the repair is complete. A clogged evaporator coil or fan can also reduce the ability of your air conditioner to cool and dehumidify your home, and this problem is sometimes caused by a buildup of mold. The EPA recommends only trained technicians should recharge an air conditioning unit.
