Maintaining an air conditioning system can keep you comfortable for up to 15 years. Unfortunately, like any mechanical device, it will eventually need replacing due to wear and tear.
The sooner air conditioner problems are identified and fixed, the cheaper repairs will be.
Here are some warning signs that may indicate you need an air conditioner repair:
Poor Airflow from your HVAC
Airflow is essential to the operation of your HVAC system. If it’s restricted, you may experience poor indoor air quality and higher energy bills.
One of the primary causes of poor airflow is a clogged AC filter. This is typically caused by trapped dirt, dust and pollen on the filter which restricts airflow.
Another potential cause is inadequate ductwork design. Older homes or those with converted attics often have undersized air ducts that don’t provide sufficient airflow.
Ductwork is also vulnerable to developing cracks and holes which allow cool air to seep out. When this occurs, a professional can clean the ducts and restore proper airflow in your home.
Additionally, small animals can make their way into your home and create dens in the ductwork. A professional can remove these animal dens; however, it’s best to leave this job to an experienced HVAC contractor who knows what to look for and takes care of the issue without damaging your air conditioning unit.
Foul Smells from the AC Unit
If the air coming from your AC vents is giving off an unpleasant odor, it could be indicative of a problem with the system. It’s wise to contact an expert for diagnosis and repair so that you don’t end up with more serious issues or damage in your home or business.
A musty AC odor is often due to mold or mildew growth. This occurs when condensation from your AC system meets moisture in the air, along with small particles like dirt, dust, pet dander, and other pollutants.
A musty smell may also be caused by standing water that has built up in the AC drain pan or ducts and isn’t draining properly. A thorough cleaning by an experienced HVAC technician usually eliminates this issue.
Another possible explanation for a musty odor could be an air conditioning Freon leak, which is chemical used in AC to absorb and eliminate heat. Since Freon is heavier than air, you won’t usually notice any signs of it for some time; however, it still creates an unpleasant odour.
No Cold Air
If your air conditioner is malfunctioning and won’t blow cold air, there are a few steps you can take to resolve the problem. Check that all thermostat settings are set correctly first.
Thermostats are essential in keeping your home cool, as they communicate with your AC unit when to turn on and off. If your thermostat malfunctions, it won’t be able to communicate effectively and won’t be able to keep your house at a comfortable temperature.
One common issue that affects the air conditioned temperature in your home is low refrigerant levels. This causes your compressor to work harder than necessary in order to cool the air.
Low refrigerant levels can also cause ice to form on the evaporator coil, signaling that it’s time for your HVAC professional to recharge the refrigerant.
Warm Air
Are your AC blowing out warm air and you’re unsure if it’s due to a thermostat issue or something else? Depending on what’s causing your unit to do this, you may be able to do some minor home AC repair yourself or need the services of an expert.
One of the most common causes is a low refrigerant level. Recharging your system with high-quality refrigerant will usually get your unit back up and running again, keeping you cool and cozy in no time!
Another potential cause is a malfunctioning thermostat, especially electronic ones. This issue usually requires only visiting your local hardware store to purchase replacement parts and parts. If these steps don’t solve it, you’ll likely need to hire an expert who can run diagnostics and recommend an appropriate course of action. Make sure to choose a certified professional with an impressive portfolio so you get the job done correctly from start to finish.