Fresh, cool air is the ultimate remedy for hot days and sweltering nights. When temperatures rise, turning to reliable air conditioner units for some needed relief. But if your AC gives you warm air rather than cool, it’s leaking, rattles like crazy, or worse, won’t turn on—are signs you’re AC might need some repairs to keep it working.
Here we cover the common causes of air conditioning problems and what you can do to ensure your aircon is up and running in time for summer.
Common Causes Of AC Problems
Like any equipment, your air conditioner can run into problems, especially if it isn’t properly maintained. Common issues such as the things listed below can increase your electric bills if you don’t pay attention. If it gets worse, you may need an accompanying guide to AC repair to address them.
Dirty Air Filters
Air filters prevent dust and dirt from entering and damaging other parts. If you don’t clean your air filters or replace them regularly, it will block airflow and reduce the air conditioner’s efficiency. During the cooling season, you’ll need to change filters every two months. Aside from constant use during the summer, you should also clean or get new ones installed if you have furry pets inside the house.
Leaking Ducts
Ducts found on ceilings and walls work to circulate cool air. But if your ducts have holes or breaks, they cause refrigerants to leak. Broken ductwork can cause your unit to work harder than usual, jacking up your energy consumption. Leaking refrigerants are also dangerous to your health, so it’s best to call a technician to handle repairs.
Wrong Thermostat Settings
An air conditioner’s thermostat keeps temperatures ideal, anticipating heat or coolness in the room. However, wrong thermostat settings can cause your unit to misread your cooling needs. Heat issues inside the home can trick your thermostat into thinking it’s hotter than usual.
You would need to position your air conditioning unit away from electrical appliances that emit heat, such as lamps, televisions, and others. You would also need to put off heat-producing activities such as cooking and baking during the night when temperatures are more relaxed, so your unit doesn’t work just as hard, and you’ll save on your energy bills.
Damaged Fans
Fans help cool indoor air while the other expels absorbed heat. Faulty motors, lack of lubrication, and worn belts can cause the fans to malfunction. Fans need to be repaired or replaced immediately, or else it will damage the compressor. When this happens, you’ll need to replace your AC entirely.
Frozen Coils
Frozen coils result from dirty ductwork and grimy air filters. When airflow is blocked and the evaporator gets too cold, ice can build up and cause your unit to emit warm air rather than soothing cool air.
Condenser coils that expel air out of your home can also fall prey to dirt and debris. These cause strain on your air conditioner, which increases the likelihood of system failure in the future.
Clogged Drains
Air conditioning units also have drainage systems to direct water and moisture away. In time, water can clog drains and fill the pan that water can cycle back to cause damage on the home interior and even promote mold growth.
Blocked Registers
Registers open and close to direct airflow where it’s needed most. When it opens, dirt can accumulate and block airflow. Placing furniture in its path can also impede cool air from circulating, which can cause the AC to work harder to meet cooling requirements.
Faulty Fuse Or Circuit Breaker
Aside from dirty or damaged parts, you’ll also need to consider your cooling system’s electrical connection. A broken fuse or faulty circuit can also cause problems with your air conditioner. Allow your unit to cool down and replace the circuit breaker or fuse immediately. In case you can’t make the AC work, you’ll need a technician to step in.
Improper Installation
Improper installation can also make your air conditioner inefficient. Placing it under direct sunlight puts additional pressure while placing it near plants or trees can crowd the compressor and impede it from producing cool air.
Besides its placement, improper installation can also cause warm air to leak or cause the unit to make rattling noises.
Neglecting Annual Maintenance
Forgetting to annual scheduled maintenance can also result in costly repairs or require total replacement. Please don’t underestimate the power of a regular aircon checkup, as it allows your technician to detect issues early on and replace damaged parts before they become problematic.
Conclusion
You might lose your cool when your air conditioner runs into problems caused by infrequent cleaning and maintenance. Not only do these problems require repairs, as they can also cause your energy bills to rise. Regular cleaning and annual maintenance can increase the life of your unit and keep you comfy under the weather.
