Like any machine or appliance, air conditioners occasionally experience problems that warrant a service or even full replacement of the unit itself. If you suspect that your air conditioner isn’t working as effectively as it used to, but you’re not certain that you need to arrange a new air conditioning installation, this article will go over six of the most common issues that arise with air conditioning units and their solutions.
Decreased or No Cooling
One of the most common problems faced by homeowners is when an air conditioner doesn’t cool at all. This issue generally arises when there’s a blocked air filter or low refrigerant levels. To rectify this problem, check the air filter in the unit, and if possible, clean it yourself. In some cases, you might need to replace the filter entirely. Also be sure to contact a HVAC technician who can check the refrigerant levels inside the unit and replace it if necessary.
Thermostat Problems
A poorly calibrated thermostat won’t correctly signal the air conditioner to cool your house at the appropriate times or even preset intervals that you set yourself. Calibrating the thermostat can be done on your own, but can be a complex job. The steps for calibrating your thermostat can generally be found in the owner’s manual for your air conditioner. However, if it seems too daunting to approach on your own, consider consulting with an air conditioning installation professional.
Leaks & Moisture
Condensation, refrigerant leaks and blocked drainage tubes can cause leaks or moisture issues around your air conditioner. Refrigerant leaks can be serious and can lead to system inefficiency, more frequent repairs and even health risks and environmental harm. Generally, a refrigerant leak will require the services of a HVAC professional to diagnose and resolve.
Unusual Noises
Strange noises could indicate loose screws, a faulty motor or unbalanced blower blades. If you happen to possess the right tools, you can attempt to tighten loose parts yourself. If you don’t have the tools or you’re unsure about any aspect of your air conditioning unit’s operation, it’s always best to call a professional.
Strange Odours
If your air conditioner starts emitting unusual smells, it could be due to mould or mildew build-up or even burnt-out wire insulation. A particularly pungent smell could indicate that the wire insulation inside the unit has burnt out, while musty smells may indicate mould or mildew build-up. Both issues will require assistance from a professional to ensure a safe and effective repair without damaging the unit further.
Frequent Cycling
If your air conditioner is switching between the cooling and idle modes more often than usual, this could indicate a range of issues like a blocked air filter, low refrigerant levels or more considerable problems. For issues like frequent cycling, it’s crucial to seek professional help promptly to identify the issue and implement effective solutions, ensuring the longevity and safe operation of your air conditioner.
Conclusion
When it comes to air conditioning, homeowners can usually address simple fixes such as filter replacements on their own, but more complex issues will demand the expertise of a skilled HVAC professional. New air conditioning installation may also be necessary depending on the extent of the issue.
