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If you have spend a hot summer’s day inside with a broken air conditioner, then you know how uncomfortable that gets. This makes a basic knowledge of identifying AC problems very important. With detailed tips on how to identify AC problems, air conditioning replacement Fairfax Station ultimately saves you from an unpleasant experience.
If this is something that interests you, we invite you to continue reading to learn about identifying AC problems in your home.
10 Tips for Identifying AC Problems
1 • Types of Air Conditioners
It’s essential to understand the type of air conditioners before narrowing down to problems.
- Central air conditioners – This is the most common kind of cooling system. They circulate cold air by the supply and return ducts. Also, their location is usually inside walls or under floors. Once the air gets warm, it flows back in the supply registers and ducts. There, it will then transport it back to the AC.
- Ductless mini-split air conditioners – Similar to central AC systems, such systems have an outdoor condenser and an indoor handling unit.
- Portable air conditioner – This kind of AC unit takes the air from room and cools it, then distributes it back in the room. The unit later vents the warm air outside through an exhaust hose installed in any window.
- Hybrid air conditioner – Hybrid systems alternate between using electricity and burning fossil fuels to run. It pulls heat from the house and distributes it outdoors. When its winter or cold outside, it draws heat from outside and distributes it inside your home.
2 • AC Problems & Scheduling Maintenance
Never underestimate the value of maintenance. Instead, keep regular maintenance schedules for inspection by an HVAC expert maintenance team. An expert eye is important because they catch the serious problems before they get worse. So, look for a team with a wide range of AC expertise. In fact, they may even carry out additional maintenance to prevent future breakdowns.
3 • Fan Problems
A fan that acts as a cooling system for the air conditioner propels over the cooling coil. Next, another fan blows over the outdoor unit condenser to expel absorbed heat. For this part, you can easily check for worn belts, a faulty motor, poor lubrication, or excessive dust.
4 • Check If the Filter is Dirty
A clogged filter leads to restricted airflow which decreases the efficiency of the air conditioner. Regular cleaning of the filter, especially for portable air conditioners, is important. Of course, central air conditioners usually require replacement after time.
5 • Examine for Any Air Leakages
Although most window units come with insulation panels, always be on the lookout for any leakage. Be sure that the seals around your AC window do not leak both cold and hot air out or in. To maximize efficiency, use weather stripping around the perimeter of the unit.
6 • Is Your Window AC Vibrating?
Air conditioners typically make plenty of noise, especially from the whirl of the fan and the sound of the compressor cycling on and off. If there’s a vibration, confirm that its placement is proper and according to the manufacturer’s manual. If not, seek professional assistance since it might be an installation problem, mainly because of your safety.
7 • Solving Drainage Problems
All the moisture removed by an air conditioner is supposed to be removed from the space through a drain line, into a pan, and finally down a drain. The pan gets full if clogged, which leads to water backing up that damages your system. You can also wind up with water leaks that destroy your ceiling and walls. Vacuuming the registers will aid in removing accumulated dust.
8 • Electric Control Failure
Usually, turning the air conditioners on and off may lead to increased wear of the fan and the compressor. Further, the corrosion of wires and terminals is a problem. Therefore, it’s advisable to contact a professional electrician or installer to fix the problem.
9 • Thermostat Settings
Air conditioners usually have a programmable thermostat that controls the temperature from a place of comfort. Make sure not to subject the thermostat to harsh conditions, such as exposure to sunlight or freezing environment. It may lead to the thermostat recording invalid temperatures.
10 • Is There Need for a Professional Heating and Cooling Technician?
Yes, there is. The continuous use of the home cooling appliances causes them to malfunction which reduces their lifespans. Seeking professional assistance will minimize energy expenses, reduce emergency repairs, and increase the AC lifespan.
If you have any suggestions or questions to want to add, please do so in the comments below. You will also find several links below to additional articles about all things design.
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About the Author: Ashley Edwards
