Air conditioning units are crucial for maintaining a comfortable indoor environment, especially during the hot summer months. However, like any mechanical system, they are prone to certain common issues that require repairs. This article will discuss some of the most common air conditioning repairs that technicians frequently encounter.
One common issue is the failure of the AC unit to produce cool air, often due to a lack of refrigerant, also known as coolant. The refrigerant is the substance that your air conditioner uses to remove heat and humidity from the air in your home or business. If your system develops a leak in the refrigerant lines, you can end up with not enough refrigerant to effectively cool the air. Unfortunately, fixing this particular issue isn’t as simple as replacing the refrigerant. An HVAC professional needs to find and fix the leak, which can sometimes be a time-consuming task.
Another frequent problem that warrants AC repair is the failure of the fan that blows air over the evaporator coils. This fan is responsible for taking the heat from your home and dispersing it outside. If it doesn’t operate correctly, the compressor can overheat, causing the safety overload to trip and possibly damaging the compressor. A damaged fan can also cause the system’s evaporator coils to freeze, leading to additional problems.
Electrical control failure is another common issue that often leads to AC repair. The compressor and fan controls can wear out, particularly when the AC turns on and off frequently, as is common with a system that’s too large for the home. Wire and terminal corrosion is also a problem in many systems. Therefore, electrical connections and contacts should be checked during a professional service call.
A clogged or dirty filter is a very common issue that can lead to bigger problems if not addressed. When an air filter is clogged, airflow through the system is reduced, which decreases the system’s efficiency and capability to effectively cool the air. If left unattended, this can lead to more significant damage to the system and may require extensive repairs.
Drainage problems are also frequent culprits. Similar to a clogged filter, a clogged drainage pipe can prevent the system from reducing humidity in the air. The result is a sticky feeling in the home and possible water damage if the system’s drip pan overflows.
Finally, sensor problems can plague AC units. Most units have a thermostat sensor located behind the control panel, which measures the temperature of air coming into the evaporative coil. If the sensor is knocked out of position, the air conditioner could cycle constantly or behave erratically. The sensor should be near the coil but not touching it; adjust its position by carefully bending the wire that holds it in place.
In conclusion, while these are some of the most common issues that lead to AC repairs, it’s important to remember that regular maintenance can prevent most of these problems. Regularly replacing or cleaning filters, for example, can prevent a multitude of issues, while professional servicing can catch other problems early, before they result in system failure. As with most things, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure when it comes to your air conditioner.
