When your AC system isn’t working properly, it causes annoyance, inconvenience and unnecessary expense. Fortunately, you can reduce the need for repairs by keeping up with basic maintenance.
Regularly changing the air filter, examining the ductwork and preventing refrigerant leaks are essential steps for protecting your unit. Schedule a professional inspection and maintenance appointment before the summer heat. Contact Air Conditioning Repair Round Rock TX for professional help.
Often, problems with an AC system are caused by issues with the thermostat. When the thermostat is not functioning properly, it may not send the correct signals to activate or deactivate the air conditioner. This can cause the air conditioning repair to be more involved and expensive than it would be if the problem was only with the air conditioning unit.
The first thing you should do is check that the thermostat is powered and working. If you find that the screen is blank or unlighted, this could indicate a problem with the thermostat. If you replace the batteries and recheck the function of your heating or cooling system, this should resolve the issue.
Next, you should check that the temperature settings on your thermostat match your home’s current air temperature. If the settings are too low in the summer or too high during the winter, this can prevent your system from activating. You can also test the thermostat by turning it on and off. If the temperatures match, this is a sign that the thermostat is working.
If the settings on your thermostat do not match, it is possible that the breaker for the system has been tripped. You should check the breaker in your home’s fuse box, as well as the power switch on your air handler. If you find that the breaker or fuse is tripped, you will need to turn it on again before trying to operate your air conditioner.
You can also test the thermostat using a multimeter to make sure that the electrical connections are working. To do this, you will need to remove the thermostat from its base and disconnect the wires. You should then connect the multimeter’s probes to the wire terminals. If they are connected correctly, the multimeter should read continuity, which indicates that the wires are still in good condition.
Inspect the Furnace
Furnaces are generally inspected in the fall or spring for proper operation. A qualified inspector will examine the furnace casing, electrical connections, gas line and burners, heat exchanger, and exhaust flue. They will look for cracks, rust, and other damage that could indicate problems.
They will also check the blower wheel and motor for proper operation. If the blower isn’t functioning properly, it can cause dust to fly through vent covers and into the home. This can impact air quality and the health of your family.
If the furnace is electric, they will check the circuit boards for signs of overheating. They will also check for signs of damage on the heater’s heat exchanger, as this is important for safety and efficiency. They will also check for gas and carbon monoxide leaks, which can be deadly if not immediately detected.
It’s also critical to ensure the furnace is accessible for inspection. According to InterNACHI’s Home Inspection Standards of Practice, the furnace should be located in a room or space that is readily accessible for inspection, servicing, maintenance and replacement without the need for special tools or equipment. This includes a clear path of at least 24 inches wide and solid continuous flooring.
In addition to examining the furnace, they will also inspect the air conditioner’s evaporator coil, checking for dirt and other damage that can reduce its efficiency. They will also check the condensation line to ensure it’s free from blockages that can lead to water damage. They will look at the outdoor AC condenser, too, ensuring it’s not blocked by leaves or other debris. This will help the unit operate more efficiently and prolong its life.
Check the Refrigerant Levels
Keeping refrigerant levels at the proper level is critical for the effective operation of an air conditioner. If your system is low on refrigerant, a qualified technician will be able to top it off and restore normal levels. This is an easy task that can prevent a lot of trouble in the future, including serious compressor damage and higher energy bills.
There are several signs that your refrigerant is low. These include warm air coming from the vents, ice on the condenser coils, and hissing or bubbling sounds from the evaporator coils. The reason that this happens is that the system is not absorbing as much heat per cycle. A low refrigerant charge may also be a sign that there is a leak in the evaporator coils or the refrigerant lines.
It is very rare for an AC unit to be low on refrigerant, and it almost always indicates that there is a leak in one of these components. When this happens, the technician will need to repair the leak before recharging the system.
While an HVAC professional is handling the refrigerant, they will also inspect the system for other issues. This will help them determine the cause of the problem and provide the appropriate air conditioning repairs.
It is important to check the refrigerant levels regularly because if they are too low, it could lead to a costly breakdown. A professional will be able to check the levels easily using special equipment, and they can top them off if needed. This will ensure that your system is running effectively and efficiently this summer. It will also help you save on your cooling costs this summer.
Inspect the Compressor
The compressor is responsible for pressurizing and circulating refrigerant throughout the air conditioning system, cooling your home. Over time, it can develop mechanical issues that prevent it from working correctly, including a seized pulley or internal damage. The best way to ensure the compressor is functioning properly is with regular maintenance and professional checkups.
The first step to assessing the condition of your compressor is to inspect it visually and listen for unusual sounds. If you hear a grinding or rattling noise, it may indicate that the compressor needs to be replaced. Additionally, water or oil leaks around the compressor are indicative of a faulty unit and should be investigated by an HVAC expert.
Depending on your system, you might also want to check the compressor’s sight glass for refrigerant levels. The level of red or yellow in the liquid can help determine whether your compressor is overheating. Additionally, a compressor that is overheating will typically draw higher amps and consume more power than usual.
While examining the compressor, you should always wear safety gear such as gloves and goggles. It is also important to make sure that the power to the unit is completely shut off before you test or handle it. If you suspect a problem with the compressor, it’s best to contact a Weston electrical repair service immediately.
An AC technician can easily conduct a thorough visual inspection of the compressor and determine if the mechanical or electrical components are at fault. In many cases, a simple capacitor replacement can solve the issue, but in some instances, replacing the entire compressor is necessary. This entails dismantling the existing unit and installing a new one.
Inspect the Condenser
If your air conditioner isn’t cooling your home like it used to, the first thing you need to check is the basics. Ensure that the thermostat is set correctly, and that the power switch and circuit breakers are on. You should also check the air filter, as a dirty one can restrict airflow and cause your system to work harder than it should.
If you find that your blower is making a lot of noise, it may mean that it’s overworked and in need of repair. Another possible reason for noise is ductwork leaks that let outside air in. If you notice a musty odor, it’s likely mold or mildew growing in the ductwork, and that’s something that can be fixed with a little bit of bleach.
The next step is to inspect the outdoor unit, or condenser. This large boxy part is responsible for releasing heat outside your house, and you can test its operation by holding your hand up against the vents while it’s running. If you can feel a blast of cool air, it means that the compressor and refrigerant are working properly.
You should also check the condenser coils for dirt, clogs, and disconnected or broken fins. Cleaning the coils helps improve airflow and reduce energy costs, and you can do this by removing the unit’s protective cage, then using a garden hose to wash away debris. If the coils look a bit gummy, you can use a fin-straightening tool from a hardware store to straighten them out. Finally, make sure that the area around the condenser is clear of bushes, rocks, or other debris that can restrict airflow. By performing these simple tasks, you can help keep your AC system running smoothly and efficiently all summer long.
