Common A/C Issues

If your air conditioner is low on refrigerant, either the system was undercharged at installation or it leaks. If it leaks, simply adding refrigerant is not a solution. A trained technician should fix any leak, test the repair, and then charge the system with the correct amount of refrigerant. Remember that the performance and efficiency of your air conditioner are most significant when the refrigerant charge exactly matches the manufacturer’s specification and is neither undercharged nor overcharged. Refrigerant leaks can also be harmful to the environment.

If you allow filters and air conditioning coils to become dirty, the air conditioner will not work correctly, and the compressor or fans are likely to fail prematurely. Just a simple checkup now and then can prevent you from needing unsightly repairs that can cost thousands of dollars. Don’t wait to call Custom Air Systems if you need any info or advice on A/C maintenance.

The compressor and fan controls can wear out, especially when the air conditioner turns on and off frequently, as is common when a system is oversized. Because corrosion of wire and terminals is also a problem in many systems, electrical connections and contacts should be checked out during a professional service call.

Room air conditioners feature a thermostat sensor, located behind the control panel, which measures the temperature of air coming into the evaporative coil. If the sensor is “knocked out of position,” the air conditioner could continuously cycle or behave erratically. The sensor should be near the coil but not touching it; adjust its position by carefully bending the wire that holds it in place.

When it’s humid outside, check the condensate drain to make sure it isn’t clogged and is draining properly. Room air conditioners may not drain properly if not mounted level.

Clogged air filters can give rise to a range of air conditioning issues by impeding the smooth flow of air through the system. As the primary defense against airborne particles, air filters accumulate dust, dirt, and debris over time. When left unattended, these accumulations restrict the airflow, causing the AC system to work harder to pull in and circulate air. This increased strain can lead to reduced cooling efficiency, longer cooling cycles, and higher energy consumption. Furthermore, the restricted airflow can cause the evaporator coils to become too cold, potentially leading to condensation freeze and a decrease in the system’s overall performance. Regularly replacing or cleaning air filters is essential to maintain optimal airflow, improve cooling efficiency, prevent unnecessary strain on components, and ensure a comfortable and energy-efficient indoor environment.

Inadequate cooling often arises due to factors such as improperly sized or outdated AC units, compromised insulation, leaky ductwork, or blocked airflow caused by clogged filters or obstructed vents. This can lead to uneven temperature distribution, discomfort, and increased energy consumption as the system struggles to meet cooling demands. Resolving inadequate cooling requires a comprehensive assessment of the AC system, addressing underlying causes, and possibly considering system upgrades or repairs to ensure optimal performance and indoor comfort.

The indoor blower fan and outdoor condenser fan in your cooling system play pivotal roles in maintaining proper airflow and heat exchange. If the indoor blower fan is malfunctioning, insufficient air circulation can occur, leading to uneven cooling, reduced comfort levels, and even frozen evaporator coils due to restricted airflow. On the other hand, if the outdoor condenser fan is not functioning properly, the heat dissipation process becomes compromised, causing the system’s compressor to work harder and leading to overheating. Both scenarios result in decreased cooling efficiency, higher energy consumption, and potentially costly repairs if left unaddressed. Hence, maintaining well-functioning fans is essential to ensure optimal air conditioning performance and prevent a chain reaction of related issues.

Dirty coils can significantly impair the performance of an air conditioning system by hampering the crucial heat exchange process. When the condenser and evaporator coils become coated with dirt, dust, and debris, their ability to efficiently transfer heat is compromised. This impediment forces the AC unit to work harder and longer to achieve the desired cooling effect, resulting in increased energy consumption, reduced cooling efficiency, and potentially higher utility bills. Moreover, the added strain on the system can lead to overheating, increased wear and tear, and a higher likelihood of breakdowns. Regular cleaning and maintenance of coils are therefore vital to ensure optimal heat transfer, system efficiency, and prolonged lifespan of the air conditioning unit.

Thermostat malfunctions can significantly impact the performance of an air conditioning system, leading to a range of AC issues. When a thermostat fails to accurately sense and regulate the indoor temperature, it can cause the AC to cycle irregularly or not turn on/off when needed. This can result in uneven cooling, discomfort, and energy wastage. Inaccurate thermostat readings may also cause the system to overwork, leading to excessive wear and tear on components. Additionally, if a thermostat is not calibrated properly, it might set the temperature too high or too low, leading to inefficient cooling and higher utility bills. Addressing thermostat problems promptly through calibration, repair, or replacement is crucial to ensuring optimal cooling efficiency, comfort, and energy savings.