If your air conditioner isn’t acting right, you need to call for service as soon as you can. Running it with worn-out components could lead to additional problems that would be more expensive to fix. Plus, if you don’t have the equipment repaired, you risk going without cooling during heat waves. We’ll explain several of the most common air conditioner problems as well as why they happen, what to watch for, and how to know when the system needs a full replacement.
Dirty Air Filter
A dirty air filter may not seem like that big of a deal, but it is because it restricts airflow, making the AC run longer and harder to keep the home comfortable. That unnecessary wear not only raises the risk of breakdowns but may also increase your cooling costs.
Fortunately, changing the filter every 30 to 60 days will usually prevent it from becoming severely clogged. Households with indoor pets typically need to make more frequent changes. If you’re using a ductless mini-split, you’ll wash the filters instead of replacing them, and you’ll need to do this every two to four weeks.
Low Refrigerant
If your air conditioner doesn’t have the right amount of refrigerant, it won’t be able to properly to absorb heat from the indoor air to lower the temperature. You may notice the air coming from the vents isn’t as cool as it usually is. Some rooms may never even reach your desired temperature.
Keep in mind that refrigerant is not a substance that gets used up and starts to run low. Its level drops only when it’s leaking. Fixing a refrigerant leak requires expert skill and proper licensing. A technician will have to verify where the leak is, such as a refrigerant line or evaporator coil, to determine which type of repair to make. If the AC keeps experiencing low refrigerant, it may be time to upgrade the entire system.
Clogged Drain Line
A considerable amount of moisture is removed from the indoor air when the AC cools your home. And that’s exactly why the setup has a condensate drain line. But as time passes by and you use the AC more, there’s a chance algae and dirt will build up inside the drain line.
If you don’t have it regularly cleaned out, the buildup can lead to a complete blockage. When this happens, you may notice water dripping from the indoor unit or drain pan, which can damage the equipment and leave behind unsightly stains on walls and flooring.
It can also contribute to mold growth and musty odors. Technicians can usually clear the blockage to restore proper drainage, but the whole drain line may need to be replaced if it has a crack or some other sort of damage. If the rest of the system has water-related damage, a technician may suggest replacing the whole cooling system.
These are just a few of the many air conditioner problems for which technicians frequently receive service calls. You’ll need an inspection and diagnosis by a trained expert who can keep your warranty valid and make repairs correctly the first time around. If you have concerns or require AC installation services, contact MAX HVAC and Plumbing Solutions in Lubbock, TX.