AC Repair: Identifying The Most Common Issues

AC Repair Issues You Need To Know About

It is already late in the cooling season, but several weeks of air conditioner use are yet to come. Due to the long months of constant use, repairs are not uncommon this late in the season. While air conditioner (AC) problems are quite disconcerting for homeowners, most are common to HVAC professionals. The most common AC problems are:

A Clogged Air Filter

An air filter is placed in the path of moving air to collect and remove airborne particles from the indoor air. Even poor-quality filters are very efficient at removing particles and therefore the dust will quickly cover the filter and clog it.

This clog will:

• Restrict airflow
• Interrupt the cooling (or heating) function
• Stress the whole system and create unnecessary wear

The air filter should be changed every three months, more often if necessary. The filter can be found near the base of the central air cabinet. Slide the old filter out and put a new filter in its place.

Loss of Power

During late summer, it is not uncommon to experience several days of extreme heat, putting strain on the air conditioner system. If the air conditioner draws more electricity than normal it can cause a circuit breaker to trip or a fuse to blow. The result is a sudden loss of power to the whole system, resulting in a home that heats very quickly.

If all power is lost to the air conditioner, check the service panel for a tripped breaker/damaged fuse. Turn the breaker to the OFF position and then turn it to the ON position. Power should be restored to the system, but be patient, as there may be a short delay before a cooling cycle begins. (A damaged fuse will need to be replaced, but these principles are the same in either case.) If the breaker trips again immediately, it will be necessary to schedule a repair visit from an HVAC professional.

Replace Thermostat Batteries

The switch for the AC is called a thermostat—find it installed midway up an interior wall. The thermostat is battery-powered, and the batteries need to be replaced regularly—annually is recommended. Common AA or AAA batteries are the most popular power source.

Refrigerant Leak

Air conditioners use a refrigerant to transfer heat, commonly called Freon. Freon is compressed (to about 400 psi) and then suddenly released, creating a sudden drop in temperature. Since the refrigerant is put under such extreme pressure, the system of tubes must be closed. When a hole in the closed system develops, the Freon leaks away very quickly. A refrigerant leak results in

• Ice builds up on the refrigerant tubes. The ice does not last long in the heat, resulting in water melting; if the ice develops indoors, the melting water can create a real mess. The ice can build up on the outdoor condenser coil and melt away without being noticed.
• Cooling depends upon Freon. When the Freon leaks, cold air becomes warmer before all cooling function is gone. The blower motor runs. The condenser runs. However, there is no cool air coming from the air conditioner.

This problem will not fix itself. It requires a call for AC repair. The leak will need to be repaired, and the Freon replaced.

Water Leak

The air conditioners’ cool tubes cause humidity to condense on the coil and drip to a collection tray; during this time of year, it is not uncommon for a gallon or two of water to be removed. If rust from the tray or, more commonly algae grows in the dark, moist drain line, a clog can develop, dumping the water on the floor. Removing the clog will let the water drain properly.

AirPro Houston For All of Your AC Repair Needs

With our four decades of experience as an HVAC contractor, AirPro Houston provides you with the skill and expertise to assist with your AC repair questions.

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