A well-functioning air conditioning system is critical to comfortable indoor temperatures. Regular maintenance and prompt AC repairs help prevent minor issues from escalating into major breakdowns, improving energy efficiency and extending equipment lifespans.
Insufficient cooling is often caused by a dirty air filter, low refrigerant levels, or a damaged blower fan. A tripped circuit breaker may also contribute to this problem. Contact Ausco Air Heating & Air Conditioning for professional help.
The compressor is the heart of your air conditioning unit. If the compressor isn’t working correctly, your whole system will not work as it should. The compressor converts liquid refrigerant into gas so that it can be transferred to the evaporator coils and cool your home or business. When the compressor stops working or isn’t providing enough pressure, it may be time to call in a professional. A trusted AC repair company will be able to diagnose and fix the problem so that your compressor can start working again.
There are several things that can go wrong with the compressor. First, it can fail to turn on. If this happens, you should check the power cord and the power switch to make sure they are connected and activated. You should also check the circuit breaker to see if it has been tripped.
Another common problem with the compressor is a lack of air pressure. If the air pressure is too low, you can check the tank for leaks. If you don’t find a leak, you can try to adjust the pressure with the compressor. You can do this by opening the plastic cover and removing the screws. You will then be able to access two screws on the pressure maintaining valve. The top screw will turn the compressor on and off, while the bottom one can be tightened or loosen to change the pressure setting.
If the compressor doesn’t provide sufficient pressure, you may have a valve problem. If the valves are broken, they won’t let the liquid refrigerant into the compressor. This can cause the compressor to overheat and stop working. A professional can replace the valves and get your compressor working again.
Another problem with the compressor is an air leak. If the compressor is leaking, it will cause a hissing sound and you can usually feel where the air is escaping. You can check for a leak by lathering the connections in soapy water. If bubbles form, you have found the site of the leak. You can then clean the area and apply Teflon plumber’s tape to the connection.
Evaporator Coil
The evaporator coil is one of the most important components in your HVAC system. This indoor component absorbs heat from your home’s air and carries it outdoors, making sure you have cool, comfortable living conditions all year round. The coil can deteriorate over time, requiring repair or replacement to ensure the optimal performance of your HVAC system.
Your air conditioner can suffer from many problems that will affect the evaporator coil’s function, including low airflow, insufficient cooling capacity, and ice accumulation. Regular professional AC maintenance can prevent these issues and extend the lifespan of your evaporator coil.
Corrosion of the copper pipes inside the evaporator coil is one of the main reasons you may need to replace it. The reaction between high humidity levels, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and the copper piping leads to formic acid corrosion that gradually wears away at the coils, causing leaks that let refrigerant escape.
You can help avoid this problem by keeping your home humidity low and avoiding VOCs in household cleaners, personal care products, paint, air fresheners, and building materials. In addition, regular maintenance of your indoor ductwork and AC system will help reduce the accumulation of dirt on coils.
When you suspect that the evaporator coil is leaking, it’s important to seek professional attention right away. If left unattended, a leak in the coil can damage other parts of the HVAC system and lead to serious, expensive repairs.
Frozen evaporator coils are the most common sign of coil deterioration, but other warning signs include a lack of cold air flow, a dirty evaporator coil, or a strange odor in your home. These are all signs of a faulty air conditioning system that require immediate attention from an experienced technician to prevent further damage.
When you need to replace your evaporator coil, follow these simple steps: Turn off power to the AC unit at the circuit breaker before beginning repairs. Remove the access panel that covers the evaporator coil, then carefully disconnect any electrical wires or refrigerant lines connecting it to your system. Use a pipe cutter to severe the copper tubing, then carefully unscrew the old coil from its mounting. Place the new evaporator coil into its mounting, following the guidelines for your specific system to ensure proper installation.
Thermostat
The thermostat is the heart of any heating and cooling system. It senses the ambient temperature, picks up on any fluctuations, and sends signals to turn the AC unit on or off based on programmed settings. So, when the thermostat is not working correctly, your whole system is affected.
Whether you have an old-fashioned dial thermostat or a more modern programmable or smart thermostat, a broken thermostat can be a huge inconvenience for any homeowner. Luckily, most thermostats can be repaired. Our AC service experts are ready to walk you through the most common symptoms and steps to troubleshoot the problem.
If your thermostat seems unresponsive, try replacing the batteries. You’ll likely find a battery compartment on the back or bottom of the thermostat, where you’ll have to remove the cover and replace the batteries. Make this a routine check to keep the thermostat functioning properly.
Sometimes a faulty thermostat can be fixed by reprogramming it. However, if you keep reprogramming the thermostat and it returns to its default settings, this could indicate a deeper problem that requires professional assistance.
You can also check the wiring connections on your thermostat to see if they’re loose, dirty, or disconnected. The multiple connections that link the thermostat to your AC system can prevent proper function if any of them become disconnected or loose.
Another thing you can check is if the breaker that controls the thermostat or furnace is tripped. This is a simple fix that can be done by flipping the breaker off and then on again. However, this is not a permanent solution and should only be used as a temporary measure until you can call an electrician.
You can also try wiping the inside of the thermostat with a damp cloth to remove any dust or debris that may be obstructing the sensors. This should be done regularly, as dirt can impede your thermostat’s ability to accurately read temperatures.
Filters
A clean filter allows for optimum airflow so the air conditioner doesn’t need to work as hard. This helps preserve the lifespan of the system and avoids costly repairs. It also enhances indoor air quality by reducing the circulation of dust, allergens, and other pollutants.
Filters are available in disposable and reusable options, but both need to be cleaned regularly. Disposable filters should be replaced at least every six months unless they become clogged sooner. Reusable filters can be rinsed with warm water and a bit of white vinegar. The vinegar solution dissolves lingering dirt and debris and leaves the filter cleaner than before.
Dirty filters can cause a variety of problems, from poor cooling to a clogged fan or even complete AC failure. When this occurs, it usually means the unit’s coils are overheated due to excessive stress on the motor.
If the AC is working overtime due to a dirty filter, your utility bills will likely increase, as will your indoor air quality. If you notice an increase in these symptoms, call your local HVAC service provider.
Inspect the air filter to determine if it’s time for a replacement. If it is, remove the old filter and replace it with a new one. Whether you’re using a disposable or a reusable filter, always wash your hands after handling the filter and close any access panels.
Whether you’re in a residential or commercial setting, construction sites may be going up around you or nearby. When construction workers disturb the surface of your yard, sidewalks, or roof, dust and dirt can be sucked into your home’s ventilation system. This can strain your air conditioning unit’s filters and make them clogged faster.
When cleaning or replacing a filter, take note of the date it was installed. Many manufacturers provide a spot on the filter for homeowners to write this information. This will help you remember when it’s time to change the filter again, and it will allow your HVAC technician to see how often it needs to be changed.