In hot weather, if you feel warm or lukewarm air blowing from your vents, there may be a problem. This usually means the system is low on refrigerant.
Most of these issues have simple fixes. However, ignoring them can lead to more serious problems and costly repairs. Contact AIR CONDITIONING REPAIR LOVELAND OH for professional help.
One of the most common causes of cooling issues is an air filter that needs to be changed or cleaned. This is an inexpensive part that should be a regular maintenance item.
Dirty filters force your system to run longer and work harder to cool your home. This causes your energy bills to spike and can cause premature wear and tear on critical system components.
A dirty air filter will recirculate dirt, pollen, mold, dander, germs and other allergens back into the indoor air. This can make you and your family sick and can exacerbate allergies and respiratory conditions.
The easiest way to tell if your filter is dirty is to do a visual inspection. Brand new filters are usually white, while clogged filters will look brown or black and will contain dust, grime, pet hair and other debris. Some filters are reusable and can be washed with a mild detergent solution and then rinsed and reinstalled.
Most HVAC technicians recommend changing your filter at least once a month. It’s also a good idea to invest in higher quality filters that can be washed and reused as long as they aren’t damaged. Some filters are even able to filter particulates as small as one micron and can help fight against asthma and other respiratory conditions. Talk with your technician about upgrading to these types of filters. They may cost more upfront, but they can save you the expense of a costly repair bill down the road.
Worn Power Cord
Damage to power cords can occur from heavy use, accidents, and poor care. If a cord has a cut or exposed wire it should be replaced immediately to reduce the risk of electrical shock, electrocution or fire. Cords that are overheating due to improper storage or excessive current flow may also need to be replaced. Using cord covers and cable clips to keep cords organized can help reduce the chance of them becoming damaged. Conducting regular inspections of all your cords will allow you to see when it is time for a replacement. Look for broken insulation, abrasions and exposed wires.
Clogged Drain Ports
Air conditioners create condensation, and it’s important to clear that away. It helps protect the evaporator coils from moisture damage, and it also dehumidifies your home’s interior. But if the condensation line becomes clogged, the system could shut down and lead to water damage and mold.
Clogged drain lines are typically caused by dust or other debris that accumulates inside the line. But the problem can also be caused by a buildup of biofilm. This slimy coating of bacteria, fungus, mold spores, pet dander, and dust can actually prevent the line from working properly.
When a drain line clogs, it can cause water to back up into the unit and flood sensitive electronics like the blower motor or thermostat connections. This can cause a short circuit and render your entire AC system useless.
Clogged drain lines are one of the most common air conditioning problems, and they’re also an easy fix. Just pour a bit of distilled vinegar or a peroxide solution into the drain and flush it with water after about 30 minutes. This will usually eliminate the clog, and it’s a quick maintenance trick that most people forget to do. Keeping the area around your indoor AC unit clean can also help prevent debris from entering the system and clogging the drain line. Also, consider installing a clog-prevention device such as a drain pan float switch or a drain line blowout device.
Faulty Coils
If your air conditioner feels muggy or overly humid despite the AC running, a dirty evaporator coil may be to blame. Coils that are dirty or blocked lose their ability to absorb and dissipate heat, forcing the system to work overtime in order to cool the home properly. This extra strain translates into higher energy bills, and it can also accelerate wear and tear on other components.
Coils are prone to damage from dirt, debris, and airborne chemicals that collect on their surface. Combined with the effects of age, this can cause corrosion and eventually lead to leaks. If you notice a hissing sound coming from the unit, or if there is a puddle of liquid underneath the coil, it’s time to call an HVAC professional for a replacement.
Faulty coils also force the air conditioner to overwork, leading to frequent on/off cycling and premature failure of major components. An expert technician can determine whether repairing the faulty coil or replacing it is the most cost-effective solution.
In addition to the obvious signs of a faulty coil, you should also pay attention to any odors that might be coming from your AC. A musty smell can indicate mold growth, while a foul odor can suggest that the compressor is burning out (this is particularly common with older R-22 refrigerant). A sour or sweet smell suggests that the refrigerant may be leaking, and you should call for an AC repair as soon as possible.
Faulty Thermostat
Thermostats are a vital part of an AC system, but like any other electrical component they can wear out over time. If left unaddressed, thermostat problems can lead to a wide range of other issues that impact the operation and efficiency of your cooling system.
One of the most common signs that a thermostat is failing is erratic temperature fluctuations in your home. These are usually the result of a broken thermostat, which can’t read and interpret room temperatures accurately. This can also cause the thermostat to “short cycle,” which means it turns on and off repeatedly without completing a cooling cycle.
A dark display on your thermostat is another sure sign of a malfunctioning thermostat. You can try switching out the battery and looking for a tripped breaker to fix this issue, but the best thing to do is call in an HVAC professional. These professionals have all the tools and knowledge needed to diagnose and repair any problem with your thermostat.
Thermostats are complex pieces of equipment, and working around them can pose serious safety risks. Attempting to perform your own thermostat repairs may damage or ruin the device, which can increase the cost and time of the repair. For these reasons, it’s always best to call in a professional who has the training and experience necessary to safely and effectively fix your thermostat.