We’ve all been there. You walk into your house expecting a blast of cool air, but are instead greeted with the same hot, humid air as outside. A quick inspection reveals that your air conditioner is leaking water, the line is frozen, or the unit won’t even turn on. It’s clear that your AC unit is malfunctioning.
How did this happen? Below, we’ll outline some common AC problems, and how to prevent them.
Dirty Air Filters
Clogged or dirty air filters top the list of the most common air conditioner problems. Short-cycling, reduced efficiency, frozen lines and uneven cooling can all be caused by dirty air filters, which make your unit work harder than it needs to. If your filter is dirty, your AC unit cannot take in enough air to cool, meaning it will have less cool air to blow out. Be sure to replace your filters according to the manufacturer’s instructions, typically every 1-3 months.
Thermostat Problems
After a dirty air filter, a malfunctioning thermostat is another usual suspect for common AC issues. Check that the thermostat is turned on with charged batteries, the inside is clean, and the program settings are accurate. In older homes where walls may have settled, make sure the thermostat is level. And just like with real estate, location matters; thermostats should be installed on a centrally located interior wall away from direct sunlight to get the best reading in your home.
Clogged Condensate Drain
Sediment, algae, mold and insects can all clog up your AC unit’s condensate drain, which is the line used to drain humidity pulled from the air. Knowing how humid it is in Green Cove Springs in the summer, this line is often constantly at work. If you notice water leaking from your AC unit or in the drip pan below, it’s likely the result of a clog in the drain line. Regular system maintenance will prevent buildup and keep debris cleaned out before a clog develops.
Electrical Issues
An AC unit with faulty electrical flow cannot cool your home. Breakers and fuses protect the AC unit’s motor from overheating, and need to be replaced periodically. Issues with the capacitors can cause the compressor and fans to malfunction, or even cause a total breakdown of the motor. Connectivity can also be compromised by faulty wiring or regular wear and tear; wires can fray, corrode or disconnect. Electrical connections should always be assessed by a licensed AC technician, and many issues can be spotted during an annual maintenance visit.
Refrigerant Leaks
Refrigerant is a chemical blend that cycles through an air conditioner, changing from liquid to gas and back again, all the while absorbing heat from inside your home and releasing it outside. An air conditioner cannot perform correctly if the unit is leaking refrigerant. Leaks can cause a number of problems, such as higher utility bills and fluctuating temperatures, and should be assessed and repaired by an AC technician. Scheduling regular preventive maintenance for your AC unit from DDI Southeast can help detect the early signs of a leak and resolve the issue before it gets out of hand.
Dirty Condenser Coils
The condenser coils on your outdoor unit will get dirty just by nature of their location. They are exposed every day to dirt and debris from outdoor elements, and can be damaged by the type of weather common in Clay County, Florida. An AC technician can spray them off with a hose once a year, but a chemical solution might be needed if the coils go years without maintenance. We can assess the status of your coils during a scheduled HVAC service call.
Frozen Evaporator Coils
Evaporator coils can freeze up for a number of reasons, such as dirty air filters, refrigerant issues or lack of airflow. Frozen coils must be thawed and cleaned by a trained AC technician, but the issue can be prevented by following a maintenance schedule that keeps your unit clear of debris and functioning at optimal efficiency.
Preventive Maintenance Can Help!
Wear and tear is to be expected for any air conditioner. But with regular preventive maintenance, many issues can be avoided or caught early before they become costly emergencies. Having a professional technician inspect, tune up and repair your AC unit each year will extend the life of your unit and keep you cool all season.
Is your air conditioner ready for summer in Green Cove Springs, Florida? Stay ahead of the heat with a preventive maintenance agreement with DDI Southeast.