Why AC Repairs Are Necessary
Keeping an air conditioner functioning properly can help reduce the amount of work it has to do. The AC unit can also improve indoor air quality by reducing humidity levels which often cause problems like mildew and mold.
Homeowners can often avoid paying for AC repairs by doing a few simple tasks like replacing air filters or moving the unit to a shadier spot. However, many AC repair issues are best left to a professional.
1. Faulty Thermostat
The thermostat is the brain of your heating and cooling system, so when it’s not working properly, it can leave your home uncomfortable. It can also lead to a lot of unnecessary energy use, which will add up on your utility bill.
If your thermostat reads a temperature that is higher or lower than what it should be, one of the sensors inside may be broken or damaged. These sensors help the thermostat determine whether the system should turn on or off. They’re located in the cover of your thermostat, so if they look dirty, you can remove it and use canned air or a soft brush to wipe away any dust or debris.
Another issue could be that your thermostat isn’t getting any power. Check to see if the circuit breakers have been tripped and reset them if necessary. Then, switch the power back on to your thermostat and try again. If this doesn’t work, you’ll probably need to call a technician.
2. Faulty Compressor
The air conditioner compressor is a complex piece of equipment, and like other appliances, it experiences normal wear and tear. If you hear a buzzing sound or the unit keeps trying to start but fails, this is a sign that it may need a new start capacitor. Only a professional can replace this part since it stores potentially dangerous and high voltages.
A rattling noise from the AC compressor is also a common problem. It could mean that the compressor’s bearings are wearing out or that their lubrication has failed. This causes a rattling sound of metal against metal as the motor struggles to turn.
If the unit trips a circuit breaker, this is another sign that it needs to be replaced. Often, this means the AC compressor is overheating. This can be caused by a lack of suction cooling, a dirty condenser coil, or electrical problems. Getting these issues fixed promptly can prevent them from worsening and leading to further damage.
3. Faulty Ductwork
The average HVAC system will make a little bit of noise while running, but if you hear rattling, banging, or whistling sounds coming from the vents, your ductwork may be to blame. Any leaking holes, tangles, or blockages in the air ducts will result in extra wear on your unit and can cause your utility bill to skyrocket.
You can identify duct leaks by looking for drafts from the vents, and you can repair them with a special metallic foil tape that creates an air-tight seal. However, large duct leaks or other severe issues will require professional repairs from an experienced HVAC technician.
Other physical obstructions that can restrict airflow include dust, dirt, debris, old air filters, and tangled ductwork. If you see these problems, call an HVAC technician right away to fix them before they worsen. This is a very common problem that most homeowners overlook, but it can significantly impact your AC efficiency and comfort level.
