Troubleshooting Common AC Problems: A Homeowner’s Guide
GreenBox Home Services brings homeowners whole-home comfort solutions in HVAC and plumbing in Central KY. GreenBox Home Services aims to provide peace of mind for homeowners and business operators. Whether it’s installation or repair, GreenBox Home Services delivers a reliable partnership to achieve optimum comfort for those in Central KY. No homeowner wants to deal with long-term air conditioning (AC) issues plaguing their home throughout hot and humid summers. That’s why it’s important to understand common AC issues that may arise so those issues can be dealt with swiftly. Enlisting in annual AC tune-up appointments can help avoid costly repair needs and surprise breakdowns. Enrolling in annual AC maintenance through GreenBox Home Services will get homeowners more out of their units, and prolong their air conditioner’s lifespan.Most Common AC Problems Faced by Homeowners
Factors that lead to common ac problems include age, lack of maintenance, and environmental considerations. Air conditioner products are meant to last for up to 20 years. Once your AC unit gets up in age, problems may surface. Neglecting your AC units of proper maintenance is another way AC problems can start to develop. Environmental factors such as weather can also impact your ac unit. This can lead your AC unit to overwork and operate less efficiently. Several components within an AC unit can be prone to issues, including:Â- Compressor. The compressor takes the biggest workload in maintaining a cool home. Because the compressor is always working, it can fail and need a replacement.Â
- Condenser Coils. The condenser coil is the outside unit of your air conditioning system. This coil will release the heat absorbed by the evaporator coil. Signs that your condenser coil is experiencing issues are loud and abnormal issues from the unit, reduced cooling capacity, or leaking fluid.Â
- Refrigerant. The performance of your AC unit is at its best when the refrigerant is charged to match the exact qualifications of the manufacturer. If the refrigerant is overcharged or undercharged, refrigerant leaks may follow suit.Â
- Thermostat. The thermostat is the key factor in measuring the temperature and telling the machine to turn on and off.Â
How To Diagnose AC ProblemsÂ
The following is a step-by-step guide for homeowners to troubleshoot their AC issues before calling a professional for further help. This will save money and restore comfort throughout your home and in your mind.- Checking the thermostat settings
- Inspecting air filters
- Examining outdoor unit for debris and obstructions
- Assessing air flow from vents
- Listening to unusual noises
- Observing for leaks
Tips for Preventing AC Problems
The importance of regular maintenance will help homeowners keep their AC unit cooling their home with efficiency and longevity. A well-maintained AC unit can last up to 20 years, according to the Environmental Protection Agency. These tips can help homeowners save money and curve larger issues.- Cleaning air filters. Cleaning air filters is a task that can be done monthly to improve ac unit health. When air filters get dirty, the motor can be put under excessive strain, decreasing the lifespan of the unit and even poor indoor air quality.Â
- Keeping the outdoor unit clear. Periodically checking the outdoor AC unit is a healthy task to prevent any blockages. When debris clutters around the outdoor unit, this will cause airflow blockages. Try to keep any foliage three feet away from your outdoor ac unit.