You have an Unexpected Air Conditioner Repair, Now What?
No matter how common it is, unexpected AC repairs are inconvenient. While this can cause a big headache –especially during the hottest months of the year– there may be a quick. Here are some of the common causes of AC malfunctions and fast DIY fixes.
Common AC Problems And Possible Solutions To Fix Them
HVAC professionals should always handle complicated AC repairs. However, more minor problems occurring with your AC may be able to be fixed by you.
Warm or Hot Air Coming From Your Vents
An air conditioner not blowing cold air can be one of the worst feelings after a long day in the heat. However, there may be a quick solution to this problem.
First, you’ll want to check to see if your thermostat batteries and settings are both in working condition. If you notice that your batteries are dying, replace them. If your thermostat settings are incorrect, reset your thermostat. If cold air still refuses to come from your AC unit then you may have a tripped breaker. Turn it on and then off to restart it.
Odors & Sounds
Odors may occur when your AC unit has been dormant for many months. You can avoid this by cleaning your air conditioner prior to turning it on. However, if there is a burning or gas smell coming from your unit, contact an HVAC pro quickly.
Noises that come from an AC system are a cause for concern because they typically signify a deeper issue. Have an inspection done by a professional and don’t ignore these problems before they create more complicated issues.
Leaks Around Your Unit
As your AC system cools down a room, it also removes humidity from the air. Usually, leaks on the outside and inside of your air conditioner mean you need to have it serviced. Although there are various reasons that an AC unit will leak, a common cause is a blocked or clogged drain.
Check the condensate pump and condensate drain line and ensure they are performing their jobs correctly. This means that the pump is removing water and the line is blockage free. Clean any necessary areas.
AC Unit Not Kicking On
Hopefully, an AC unit that does not want to turn on has an easy fix. You can try following the same actions we laid out for when an AC is blowing hot air and see if that fixes the problem.
Frozen Coils
When warm air is prevented from reaching the coil due to dirt and debris build up a frozen coil may occur.
Disconnect the power source to your AC unit and allow the coil to start defrosting. Once it has been given a chance to thaw, check for areas that need dirt and debris cleaned off. Once it has been cleaned it should allow the air to flow to the coil.
Unit Cycles On and Off
When your air conditioner is turned on and off often over a shorter period of time, it will require the internal components such as the compressor and fan to work harder each time it is turned on. This results in damage to the part.
Since this type of issue can cause acid to build up, it is best to reach out to a professional for a tune-up.
Weak Airflow
You will most likely be able to tell if your air conditioner has weak airflow as you will notice hot and cold drafts within your home. This is usually caused by low refrigerant, leaking ducts, dirty air filters, or blocked vents.
Recalibrate your thermostat if it appears to be faulty. Also, remove all appliances and furniture that are blocking any air vents and replace your air filters.
Repair or Replace: Which is the Best Option?
Having AC problems might make you consider having a system replacement. Here are a few things to keep in mind if you’re considering this route and if it’s the right choice for you.
Unit Has Reached its Lifespan
Appliances don’t last forever. AC units have a service life that they are good for. Older models will last 10-12 years whereas modern models will live for 15-20 years. It may be time for a replacement unit if your AC system has started experiencing unexpected issues and it is past its service life.
Energy Costs & Consumption
If you notice a spike in your energy bill, a faulty AC unit may be the culprit. An HVAC professional can advise you on whether a replacement or repair is needed on your AC.
Replacement vs. Repair: Cost Comparison
The cost of repairs vs. a replacement is a very big difference. Full air conditioner system replacements can be anywhere from $2,000-$15,000 while repairs range depending on the type of unit you have and can be from $100-$900.
The team at Service Champions is ready to help diagnose any air conditioning problem. Give us a call today to schedule an appointment!