Common Air Conditioner Problems

August 28th, 2019 by adtrak.admin

Air conditioning can be highly beneficial to us during the warm summer months, providing us with periodic bouts of refreshing, cool air as and when you require it. So when your air conditioning decides to fail, or stop working effectively, then it can prove to be a huge inconvenience. Here are a few common problems that could be the cause of your broken air conditioner.

Thermostat

Ensure your thermostat is turned on, clean and level. Check that it hasn’t been affected due to exposure to direct sunlight and that it’s also on the correct setting. If this doesn’t work, then it will most likely be something else.

Filter

A clogged or dirty filter is a highly common cause of ineffective air conditioners. To check the condition of the filter, see if light passes through it, if not, you’ll need to clean it. Not only can dirty filters reduce air flow, but it can even cause the AC unit to freeze. To prevent this from happening again, check with the manufacturer as to how often a filter should be cleaned or replaced.

A dirty filter can also make your air conditioning smell. If your air conditioning smells, even after you’ve cleaned or replaced the filter, then the following article could offer some solutions:

Why Does My Air Conditioning Smell?

Drainage

Much like the filter, the drain line can slowly become coated in dirt and dust. Once clogged, the drain pan will eventually fill up, causing water to leak out. This could potentially cause serious damage to the AC unit.

Refrigerant Leaks

As soon as coolant starts to leak within the air conditioner, the unit will fail to perform correctly, causing the temperature to fluctuate. Something else to consider is the location of the leak. Depending on where it is, it could affect the cost of its repair. To avoid this problem, ensure your unit is checked and maintained annually by a professional. For more help and advice about a leaking AC unit, take a look at the following article:

My Air Conditioning is Leaking

Fuses or Breakers

Breakers and fuses are put in place to protect the AC’s compressor or motor from overheating. If your motor dies, the first thing a specialist would check is the breaker.

Compressor

The compressor supplies the refrigerant with energy, propelling it through coils in order to carry out heat exchange. If the compressor stops working, then the AC unit will be unable to effectively cool your home or commercial premises. If there’s an inefficient amount of refrigerant, the compressor will run hot and subsequently seize. Alternatively, if there’s an excess amount of refrigerant, it will eventually return to the compressor, causing it to fail.

Capacitors

Capacitors keep the compressor and fans working, supplying power to both, so without capacitors, neither one will work. The start capacitor activates the motor and the run capacitor maintains its activation. If either one of these burn out, then the AC unit won’t run effectively.

Condenser Coils

Located outside with the compressor, condenser coils can become dirty or damaged due to exposure to the elements. It’s advised that you clean them once a year using a hose, this ensures that all dirt has been lifted and is in a satisfactory condition once again. However, if you’re finding it difficult to remove all the grime, it would be worth calling out the professionals who will restore them using a chemical cleaner.

Evaporator Coils

These absorb the heat in the air, sending it back into your home as cool air via a series of air ducts. These coils can become corroded, even if they’re located inside the unit. Despite this, they should still be regularly maintained and checked by a specialist every three years, unless the AC unit manufacturer says otherwise.

Worn Contactor

Contactors are used for the compressor, blower motor and condenser fan motor. Together, they make an electrical connection, subsequently starting the compressor and motors. If there’s pitting or arcing on the contractor, it can become difficult for the motors to start using an electrical current.

Here at Airedale Cooling Services, we’re dedicated to providing our customers with sterling air conditioning services every single time. This includes the installation, maintenance and repair of your unit. We’re committed to ensuring you’re receiving a highly satisfactory air flow throughout your premises. If you have a broken AC unit that needs fixing, get in touch with our skilled and experienced team today – we’re always happy to help.