As seasons change, it’s always a good time to check out your air conditioning system to address problems you may have dealt with through the summer and prepare for a more comfortable warmup next spring. It’s obvious there’s a problem when your AC suddenly quits (usually on the hottest day of the year, it seems!), but a number of factors can contribute to poor performance and, ultimately, failure. Many of the most common air conditioning problems can be traced back to 3 causes: installation problems, poor or inadequate maintenance (or worn-out equipment), or improper operation.
Run, Baby, Run
Beyond mechanical problems, the way you operate your AC can make it seem that your unit isn’t working properly, even when there is not a real problem. If you’re pushing your equipment to run hard to cool your space, yet are also working against it, you won’t get the comfort you’re looking for. Keep doors and windows closed while the AC is running. Use window coverings in rooms with heavy sun exposure. Close off unused rooms to reduce energy output. Keep your AC in tip-top shape so it can handle the heat.
Getting Started
The quality of your unit’s installation is critical to the performance you can expect—and can also have a direct impact on your maintenance costs. Whether you’ve inherited an AC when buying or renting your home, or you recently put in a replacement, performance issues could be related to installation missteps. If your air conditioner was recently installed or isn’t very old, follow up with a qualified installer to review the condition of your installation so that any discovered issues can be resolved.
Going Steady
Over time, as with any mechanical equipment with moving parts, an AC unit can wear out. However, they are designed for a pretty long life, especially when maintained properly. If you’re experiencing performance issues well with the expected lifespan of your equipment, check for these potential problems.
Filters and Coils
Regularly replacing filters and cleaning coils can greatly prolong the life of your system. Failing to do so can lead to mechanical breakdown well before its time.
Low Refrigerant Levels
If your AC is running low on refrigerant, you can’t just “top it off.” Rather, check for leaks (and call a professional to handle it if discovered—it’s both a safety and environmental hazard). If there are no leaks, the unit should still be checked out by a trained service technician who can re-establish the correct amount of refrigerant so that your system will function as designed—and keep you cool.
Electronics Failures
Electronic controls of the AC fan and compressor can wear out if overloaded or corroded. Units that run too often because they are undersized for the space to be conditioned, or because of other mechanical issues, may experience these electronic failures. Thermostat sensors can also fail, not only requiring their own replacement but potentially overworking the system—which may run continuously—until repaired. All of these can be addressed by a professional technician, but can also be discovered prior to failure through regular maintenance and troubleshooting.
Drainage
An air conditioner is designed to reduce excess humidity from the outside (and inside) air… and that moisture has to go somewhere. When the air outside is particularly humid, be sure to keep an eye on the condensation drain to avoid and quickly correct clogs.
It’s easy to forget about your AC when it’s working properly. But with regular maintenance (that you can schedule-and-forget with your trusted technician) you can enjoy a long and comfortable relationship with your air conditioner.
Questions? Give us a call or contact us to set up ongoing maintenance for peace of mind and the comfort you deserve!
