If you notice problems with your air conditioning system, prompt repairs can prevent more serious issues. Airflow problems can be caused by low refrigerant levels, a dirty air filter or blocked vents.
DIY maintenance is a great idea for small fixes, but professional technicians have the tools to inspect electrical components and open sealed system components. Attempting to perform these tasks without the proper knowledge can damage your unit or voide warranties. Contact Ausco Air Heating & Air Conditioning for professional help.
While most AC systems operate quietly to keep your home cool, any sounds that aren’t expected should be investigated. Unusual noises are usually a sign of underlying issues that can grow into serious problems if not addressed. Recognizing and acting upon these unusual sounds is crucial for your comfort, safety, and wallet.
Clicking sounds are typically a sign of electrical problems that may need professional inspection and repair to avoid costly damage to the thermostat, capacitor, or control board. If the clicking sounds like it is occurring continuously, you might need to replace the system’s relay or other electrical components.
Squealing or screeching sounds can indicate that your system’s belts and motor bearings are beginning to wear out. Ignoring these sounds can lead to broken fan blades or complete motor failure, which will require expensive replacement. Regular maintenance can extend the life of your motor and belts by preventing unnecessary wear and tear.
Rattling or clanking sounds are also a sign that something is loose inside the system. This could be as simple as a screw or bolt that has become loose due to heat changes, but it could also be internal components like the blower motor or fan blades that are becoming unstable. The longer you run your AC with these issues, the more they will affect your cooling efficiency and potentially cause other system damage.
Banging or thudding sounds can be caused by foreign objects getting caught in your vents, such as toys, drapes, or furniture. They can also occur because of ductwork expansion and contraction during temperature changes. It’s best to consult a technician if you hear this type of noise, as it involves high-pressure equipment and can pose serious hazards that require expert handling.
Inadequate Cooling
When your AC is working but you’re not getting cool air from the vents, there are a few things that could be causing this issue. For one, your thermostat may be set to “Heat” instead of “Cool.” Also, dirty or clogged air filters can restrict airflow and lead to poor cooling performance. Another problem is a broken fan motor that can’t push cooled air throughout your home.
When a strange sound like squealing or grinding is heard from your AC, it could mean that the compressor is starting to go bad. This is a complex and expensive repair, and it usually requires a professional to perform.
Inadequate cooling may also indicate that your system isn’t sized correctly for your home. An HVAC technician can assess your home’s needs and determine if an AC replacement would be more cost-effective than repairing your current unit.
A refrigerant leak is another common cause of insufficient cooling. It typically shows up as a hissing sound or oil stains around the unit, and it’s important to call a professional immediately.
Sometimes, these problems can be avoided with routine maintenance. An experienced HVAC contractor can catch small wear-and-tear issues before they develop into bigger ones that require extensive repairs. During maintenance visits, technicians can check for issues like clogged air filters, low refrigerant levels and an inefficient blower motor. By addressing these minor issues promptly, homeowners can enjoy optimal cooling and comfort for years to come. When you’re looking for an experienced and trusted HVAC company to handle your air conditioning repair and maintenance needs, trust Commonwealth Cooling & Heating, LLC! Our team of expert technicians is standing by to help.
Won’t Turn On
An AC that won’t turn on is a nightmare scenario that can trigger panic. However, it doesn’t always signal a significant system failure. Many times, the problem can be solved with a few simple steps.
Check the Air Filter
A dirty filter restricts airflow and makes it hard for your AC to work. Changing the filter regularly and cleaning the evaporator coil can help your AC run smoothly.
If your air conditioning is iced up, switch the thermostat to a warmer setting until the ice melts. Then, reset the AC to its regular temperature setting to ensure it works properly. Make sure the evaporator coil is not covered in dirt or debris, which can also limit airflow and reduce cooling efficiency.
Verify the On/Off Switch is In The On Position
Like any other electric appliance, your AC draws a significant amount of power to start up and operate efficiently. If the circuit breaker trips, it will stop the flow of electricity and prevent your air conditioner from turning on. Locate the indoor shutoff switch, usually found in the attic or closet for split systems and near the condenser unit for central systems. Make sure it is in the on position and not off, which can be easy to do after a maintenance session or when someone else has been working around the house.
Also, it is important to inspect the condition of your AC’s power cord and electrical outlet for wear and tear or damage that could inhibit its function. If the power cord is loose, discolored, or damaged, a qualified electrician should replace it. Likewise, the power outlet should be in good condition and functional, which can be confirmed by plugging in another device.
Clogged Air Filter
The air filter is a vital component of your cooling system. Its primary function is to trap airborne debris and pollutants such as dust, pollen, pet dander, and mold spores, keeping them from circulating throughout your home. When the filter becomes clogged, these contaminants are allowed to circulate freely and cause several problems for your AC unit.
A clogged filter restricts airflow, forcing your system to work harder than usual to cool the home. This puts a strain on the system, shortening its lifespan and increasing energy consumption. This leads to higher utility bills for homeowners.
Clogged filters increase indoor humidity levels because they prevent moisture from properly escaping the evaporator coil. The increased moisture is an ideal breeding ground for bacteria and other biological growth, which in turn can lead to poor indoor air quality and health concerns.
Clogged filters can also exacerbate minor mechanical issues and speed up the rate at which internal components wear out. This can eventually lead to a broken AC system and an expensive repair bill. You can help prevent these issues by ensuring your filters are changed regularly.
Clogged Condensate Drain
The air conditioning system removes excess humidity by draining it through a condensation line. If this line becomes clogged, humidity levels in your home will rise, and the air conditioner will run inefficiently, producing more wear and tear.
Like many plumbing clogs, AC drain line clogs are often caused by dirt and debris. Plumbers frequently find kid’s toys, food waste, hair, leaves, and other gunk contributing to a clog.
The first thing an HVAC specialist will do is turn off the air conditioner for safety and access the drain line. This is usually a capped vertical PVC pipe near the indoor unit.
Next, they’ll look for stagnant water inside the drain pan. This is often a sign of a clogged line, and the technician will use rags or a wet/dry vacuum to soak up this water and prevent it from spreading around your house.
If they see that the drain line is clogged, they’ll shut off the air conditioner again to prevent water overflow and damage. Then they’ll begin working on clearing the clog.
They may try to clear the clog by hand with a wire brush, a straightened coat hanger, or a plunger. They might also try to flush the line with a solution of vinegar and water. If the clog is too stubborn for this DIY approach, the HVAC technician will call in a drain snake and commercial cleaner.
It’s important to have your drain line checked and cleaned by an HVAC specialist at least once a year. This will help prevent a buildup of dirt and debris that could cause a clog and affect your home’s moisture levels. Plus, an HVAC specialist can inspect your drain line for any potential leaks or signs of rot that might require AC repair.