Whether you run your a/c year-round or prefer to limit your usage to only the hottest days of summer, few things are more irritating than discovering that your a/c is on the fritz. Prevent your system from failing by learning about three of the most common a/c repairs and what you can do to avoid them.
Refrigerant Leaks
If your a/c seems to be cycling on and off more frequently than usual or it’s having trouble achieving the desired temperature, you may be dealing with a refrigerant leak.
To generate cool air, your a/c takes in hot air and runs it across compressor coils. These coils, filled with refrigerant, quickly chill the air, and the blower motor circulates it throughout your home’s vents. But when your refrigerant levels are lower than normal, your a/c isn’t able to produce this ultra-cool air, and its constant cycling in an attempt to achieve the set temperature could lead to other issues.
Fortunately, a/c professionals are trained to detect a refrigerant leak. Depending on the size and location of the leak, your HVAC technician will be able to discuss your repair options.
A Malfunctioning Thermostat
Many a/c owners are relieved to find out that what they believe to be a malfunctioning air conditioner is really just a malfunctioning thermostat. If your thermostat’s batteries are running low or it’s placed in an especially cool (or sunny) area of your home, it may not be clearly communicating with your a/c unit or detecting the correct temperature. Avoid placing your thermostat in direct sun and check (and change, if necessary) the batteries every 6 months.
Other reasons a thermostat can malfunction include the equipment’s age, power supply, and also the misplacement of wires. While a thermostat may look easy enough to self-diagnose, it is a significant piece of electrical equipment that can cause a lot of harm and damage if it isn’t handled with care. When in doubt, always seek the help of a professional.
A Dirty Filter
Because your a/c unit is exposed to the elements (not to mention debris), it’s crucial for the air that flows across the compressor coils to be as clean as possible. To achieve this, your a/c has a built-in filter to remove dust and airborne particles; but when this filter becomes dirty or clogged, it can block airflow and cause your a/c unit to freeze. Fixing this issue is as simple as periodically checking your filter and swapping it out whenever it’s dirty enough to block light.
Whether your a/c needs repair or you just want a tune-up to ensure you’re prepared for the summer, A/C Designs can help. Our extensive array of services and professional, experienced staff can get your HVAC system in Jacksonville back in top shape quickly. Give us a call today to learn more about our services or to schedule your next appointment.