How to Fix Common AC Problems
To find the root of your problem, you’ll want to start by quickly inspecting each of these components. If your air filter is dirty or hasn’t been replaced in the past three months, go ahead and replace it. A clean air filter is a crucial component of an efficient AC unit. If this doesn’t mitigate the problem, try checking your thermostat.
If you think your thermostat is failing, you can take a few steps to troubleshoot it. If your thermostat’s screen is blank or unlighted, it likely needs to be replaced. The location of your thermostat can also impact how it functions. If your thermostat is in direct sunlight or if it is located on a wall with large openings or holes behind it, your temperature readings may be inaccurate. Before replacing your thermostat, try checking the settings, batteries, and circuit breakers first. If you have confirmed these elements are not at fault, then it may be time to replace your thermostat.
The last reason your unit may be short-cycling is if you have a refrigerant leak. If this is the case, you’ll need to repair the leak before adding more refrigerant to your unit. If you suspect a refrigerant leak, contact an HVAC professional to help locate the source of the leak and facilitate the AC unit repair.
AC Unit Blows Hot Air
There are few things more uncomfortable than an air conditioner that dispenses lukewarm air. Before doing anything, verify that your thermostat settings weren’t accidentally switched. If your settings are correct – the first thing you should do is change your air filter. Old, clogged air filters are often to blame for AC problems like frozen coils.
If the filter isn’t the problem, you could be low on refrigerant. Test this by feeling the larger of the two copper lines that go into the unit’s condenser. If it is moist and cold to the touch – your levels are good. If it lacks one or both of these qualities, refrigerant is low. Refilling or repairing the refrigerant reservoir is a job for a professional. Call in an HVAC technician for air conditioning repair.
Uneven Temperature Distribution
Are some parts of your home significantly colder or warmer than others? Don’t worry – it’s not a ghost. The problem could be an unbalanced air system. Depending on room size, air vent placement, windows, and even external temperature –some areas of your home won’t get as much attention from the AC unit.
Make sure more oversized windows are covered with sun-blocking curtains or blinds. From here, you can check the insulation of each room or install dampers to balance your system and redistribute some of the airflow to keep each room equally cool.
AC Unit is Running Constantly
We know you want to keep your home at a comfortable temperature, but your unit shouldn’t be running constantly in order to do so. Your AC unit’s thermostat is responsible for measuring the room’s ambient air to know when to turn on to reduce the indoor temperature. If your thermostat incorrectly measures the room’s temperature, it will instruct your unit to keep running until it reaches your set temperature. Achieving this goal temperature can be impossible if your thermostat is faulty. Fortunately, this problem can be easily remedied by replacing your home’s thermostat.
Your AC is Loud
You should be able to feel that your AC is working, but you shouldn’t have to hear it. If your AC sounds like it’s struggling to keep you cool – it probably is struggling. Failing air conditioners tend to make different noises difficult for a novice to identify or diagnose. Screeching and squealing could mean there’s a faulty belt. Rattling sounds may represent problems with the fans, motor, or compressors.
Beyond checking your thermostat, clearing debris from around your outdoor unit, and changing the filters – suspect noises are best corrected by a professional. Of course – you might get lucky. Loose air filters have been known to rattle when the blowers come on.
Need AC Unit Repair? Give Melton’s Heating & Air Conditioning a Call Today!
Melton’s Heating & Air Conditioning has years of experience repairing air and heaters. We also specialize in air conditioning installation, maintenance, heating repairs, and attic insulation services. Delivering quality HVAC services at an affordable price is always a priority. Our team is happy to answer all your questions, and we pride ourselves on providing the best customer service.
Feel free to call Melton’s Heating & Air Conditioning today to learn more about our AC unit repair & HVAC services!
Tags: AC unit repair
