High heat can be quite a torment, especially in humid areas. Luckily, air conditioning makes lives at high temperatures more bearable. AC devices are handy units that are no more luxury but a necessity. The catch is to use them properly, as explained in this source.
And what can be more frustrating than when you’re trying to cool your home, but the AC just won’t work? Sure, you can try a few basic fixes yourself. But don’t touch the electrical wiring, open up the air conditioner, or troubleshoot the thermostat yourself. Instead, it might be worth knowing when to call an HVAC professional.
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You Spot Leaks from AC Unit
There are a few things to watch out for when you suspect your air conditioner leaks. First, you might notice moist smells or unusual humidity. Then, you should check for water puddles or signs of condensation near drain pipes.
It could be as simple as a clogged or dirty filter or something complex like cracked coils. Some AC problems can leave tiny leaks that you can’t possibly notice. But they can cause a lot of trouble once they enter the building structure. So if you’re unsure, you may leave the troubleshooting to experts. They’ll make the necessary repairs. You’ll end up saving money, time, and effort. Don’t wait any longer – contact air conditioning technicians today and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing your AC system is in the best possible hands.
The drain line is another common culprit. It can become clogged with dirt and fungi, causing water to back up inside the unit. This backed-up water can leak out through the condensation pan and onto the floor. You can solve this problem by running a wet/dry vac through the drain line. If the problem persists, call a professional AC company to fix it for you.
Strange Smells and Noises
Another clue to a problem with your AC is a burning or rotten smell. It could indicate clogged drains or even a dead animal in the vents. While it’s easy to get rid of a rotten egg smell, you should not ignore the possibility that a critter has infested your air ducts. You can even suspect a refrigerant leak or a faulty fan.
If the smell is coming from the blower, it may indicate a problem with the fan belt. This rubber piece is responsible for spinning the fan blades. With time, it can become worn. It can melt, causing the blower motor to overheat and produce a burning smell. If you notice this smell, shut off your AC unit and call a professional to diagnose the problem.
Aside from odd smells, unusual noises are also other warning signs of an underlying problem with your home cooling system. These sounds may be indicative of
A squealing or banging sound from an outside unit is a common symptom of a broken compressor. Maybe some parts are unfastened, so tightening them up is necessary. Shrieking noises may suggest a rusty or broken fan belt. The louder the sound, the more complex the problem, so it’s not wise to mess with it without professionals.
Thermostat Problems
If you have trouble regulating the temperature in rooms, there are several possible causes. A broken or wrongly set thermostat is usually behind most of them. Maybe the thermostat is set for heating, so it won’t run cool air. Also, it may shift between heating and cooling without warning if it’s in auto mode. These problems can result in a malfunctioning AC unit and higher energy bills.
One simple reason a thermostat may not work is that it has no power. Replace the batteries immediately and try to program the thermostat again. If that doesn’t fix the problem, the primary power source could be the culprit. Remember – that’s not a DIY fix, and you will need the help of an AC professional to fix this problem.
Evaporator Coil Issues
The evaporator coils are integral to the cooling process. They absorb warm air and reduce humidity. So when they are malfunctioning, your indoor comfort is greatly affected. While problems in this part of the AC system may not be an emergency, an early diagnosis and repair can save you money in the long run.
One of the first signs that your evaporator coil interferes with your AC unit is when it’s clogged with debris and dirt. Dirty filters can also prevent airflow and reduce the cooling power of your system. Filter problems can be easily solved by cleaning or replacing. But if that doesn’t solve the problem, you’ll probably need professional help.
Another problem with evaporator coils is a refrigerant leak. It can happen anywhere along the refrigerant lines, preventing several components from functioning correctly. Also, your coil could be frozen due to the lack of maintenance.
Professional AC repairers can diagnose the problem and recommend a course of action. They can replace cracked hoses and gaskets, apply sealants as needed, and prevent further coil issues. That can save your home energy bills and make your AC system more environmentally friendly.
Regular Maintenance
Modern AC systems and devices can last up to a decade. But they require regular maintenance to keep them running efficiently. Without that, these units would break down or malfunction. So whether it’s a clogged duct, dirty filters, or an issue with the sensor or thermostat, regular maintenance will keep your home cool and comfortable.
During maintenance, qualified professionals will evaluate the components of the system and repair them as necessary. They will spot the early warning signs of potential problems and fix them before they become expensive. Besides, a trained eye can spot minor problems before they turn into major issues.
If you can afford it, regularly call an S&S Mechanical AC service to keep your cooling system running as efficiently as possible. That ensures the system’s longevity and prevents any unexpected problems in the future.
When it comes to AC repairs, hiring professionals can spare you a lot of trouble. You can also avoid buying a new unit by improving your current one’s efficiency. This way, you’ll be saving money and enjoy the comfort of your cooling system smoothly.
