Common Air Conditioning Problems You Should Know About

Air conditioning is a necessity as heat can be unbearable when your air conditioner is off. Repairs can be expensive, so it's important to keep your air conditioner in tip-top shape with regular maintenance.

Common problems with air conditioners

Filter

One of the common reasons why an air conditioner is not working properly is a clogged or dirty filter. Follow the manufacturer's recommendations on how often to replace your air filter. Some monthly, others quarterly, while others are reusable and require cleaning when dirty.

Thermostat

Another simple solution is to make sure your thermostat (which controls the temperature settings in your home) is on, the interior is clean and levelled, unaffected by sunlight, and at the right settings. If the problem persists, there may be another problem.

Refrigerant leak

If refrigerant leaks into the air conditioner, the unit will not work properly and the temperature will fluctuate. The location of the leak affects the cost of repairs, so it is recommended to have it checked annually by a trained AC technician.

Drainage

Just like filters, drains can become clogged with dirt, dust, and mildew. If clogged, the drain will fill and water will leak out, potentially damaging the AC unit or anything around the tub.

Breaker

Circuit breakers and fuses protect the motor or compressor of the AC device from overheating. Often, when the compressor is off, one of the first parts an HVAC technician checks is the circuit breaker.

Capacitor

Without capacitors, the motors that drive the compressors and fans will not work. The starting capacitor sends a boost to activate the motor, while the capacitor provides a series of pulses to keep the motor running. The AC module will not work effectively if one of them catches fire.

Compressor

The compressor adds energy to the refrigerant and moves it through the windings to carry out heat transfer. If the compressor is not working, the air conditioner will not cool your home. If there is not enough refrigerant, the compressor will heat up and eventually clog. If there is too much refrigerant, it will return to the compressor, which can cause failure.

Evaporator coil

The evaporator coil absorbs heat from the air and directs it back into the house as cool air through a series of air ducts. Coils can corrode, but if they are inside, they usually only require maintenance every three years.

Capacitor coil

The capacitor coils are on the outside of the compressor so they can be contaminated by the elements. They can usually be cleaned with a water hose once a year, but if they get too dirty, an HVAC technician will need to clean them with a chemical cleaner.

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