Your air conditioner (AC) proves to be vital in maintaining a comfortable temperature level in your home, particularly during the summer season. However, it can be quite inconvenient to find that your AC is not functioning properly when you need it the most. This is where it will help to know some of the most common AC problems and how you will be able to address them properly.
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Refrigerant Leaks
One of the most common AC problems that people face is refrigerant leaks. When you are faced with the question ‘Why is my AC not blowing cold air?’, then one of the most probable reasons is that your AC is low on refrigerant. This can be because it was either undercharged during the installation process or there is a leak that you need to address. In terms of the latter, simply adding refrigerant won’t be able to resolve the problem. Rather, a trained professional should inspect your AC to find the leak and address it properly.
Filter Issues
Another common problem that people face when it comes to their AC units is filter issues. More often than not, when the filter of your AC is already clogged or dirty, it will begin to malfunction. In this case, what you can do to prevent this problem is to follow the manufacturer’s specification of your AC when it comes to the frequency of changing its filter. In case your AC’s filter is reusable, take the time to clean it regularly.
Thermostat Failure
There is also the probability that you encounter thermostat failure or the component of your AC that controls the temperature setting. Inspect the thermostat of your AC to ensure that it is clean and level. You should also make sure that it is not directly hit by sunlight and that it is in the correct setting.
Drainage Problems
There may also be instances wherein you may experience drainage problems because they can get clogged or full of dirt, just like your AC’s filter. When they do, the drain pan will tend to fill up, with water potentially leaking out. This will cause serious damage to your AC over time, causing it to malfunction accordingly.
Damaged Components
Your AC is composed of various components such as breakers and fuses, and different capacitors. When the motor of your AC dies, the first thing that a technician will most likely check is the breaker or the fuse of your AC. On the other hand, your AC unit will also fail to function properly if one of its capacitors is worn out because the motors that power the compressor and fans will also fail to work.
Malfunctioning Compressor
With a malfunctioning compressor, your AC unit will also fail to work properly, unable to cool your house properly. Your compressor can malfunction and tend to run hot if there is insufficient refrigerant. On the other hand, with too much refrigerant, it will tend to return to the compressor causing it to fail as well.
In the same manner, worn-out contractors can also make it difficult for the electric current powering your AC to start the motors. The reason behind this is that the contractors are responsible for making the electrical connection that will start your AC’s motor and compressor. Make sure to get in touch with a reliable technician to have your AC’s contractors inspected in case your unit is no longer efficiently cooling your home.
Worn Out Coils
Finally, worn-out coils can also lead to a malfunctioning AC that is unable to efficiently cool down your home and maintain a comfortable temperature level. The coils of your AC are the evaporator and condenser coils. The former absorbs heat in the air, sending it back into your home as cold air when it passes through a series of ducts. They can become corroded over time. On the other hand, the latter is located outside the compressor, which is why they can become dirty due to external elements. For this reason, you should ensure that your AC, along with its coils, is regularly inspected at least once a year.
Some of the most common AC problems include refrigerant leaks, filter issues, and thermostat failures. There is also a chance for you to experience drainage problems, damaged components, as well as a malfunctioning compressor and worn-out coils. Rest assured that all these can be prevented with the routine maintenance of your AC. However, if these problems already arise, make sure that you have the contact details of a professional technician who will be able to help you resolve them.
Featured Image by F. Muhammad from Pixabay
