Gone are the days when an air conditioner (AC) was considered a luxurious item. Nowadays, it has become a necessity! Millions of people use AC to keep their homes cool and comfortable. The most recent results of the Residential Energy Consumption Survey show that 88% of U.S. households use AC. However, there is a catch! You need to make efforts from time to time to ensure it continues to work efficiently.
Most AC owners find it confusing and challenging to keep their AC in top shape. However, residential AC repair and maintenance don’t have to be a daunting task. Following the right guidance can make the task a lot easier. In case you come across any serious issues, contact a full-service HVAC company without delay. Experienced professionals can save you valuable time and energy. If you want to carry out the task, it is important to have the right knowledge.
Residential AC Repair Tips: Troubleshooting Common Issues
Here are some common things you can troubleshoot before calling for residential ac repair.
Leakage of Refrigerant
AC refrigerant is the main factor that keeps the air cool in your unit. If your AC is blowing warm air, there could be a leakage of refrigerant. For possible refrigerant leaks, you need to check your unit properly. First, you need to find the refrigerant leak and fix it. After that, you will have to top up the refrigerant to make sure that your residential AC has enough.
Water Leaks
When a condensate drain gets clogged, it can lead to a water leak. As a result, algae or fungi can quickly grow and further clog the system, which will force the water to back up. Moreover, the condensate pump can also break down over time. You might need to replace the condensate pump to fix the leak. Finally, unclog the pipe with the help of a wet or dry vacuum.
Failed Condenser Fans
The AC condenser fan keeps the condenser cool. If the fan fails to run properly, it can cause problems with the entire AC unit.
To address this issue, follow these steps:
1) Turn off the power to the outdoor condenser unit.
2) Remove the unit’s cover using screwdrivers.
3) Disconnect the motor from the cover.
4) Take off the fan blade from the motor shaft.
5) Install the new motor to resolve the problem.
Failed Capacitors
It is one of the important residential AC repair tips that people often overlook. Failed capacitors can cause voltage fluctuations in AC systems, leading to increased strain on the compressor and condenser fan, which may shorten their lifespan. To avoid this problem, replace the capacitors every few years to prevent potential damage and ensure the proper functioning of the unit.
Residential AC Maintenance Tips
The following tips will help you maintain your air conditioner in a hassle-free manner:
Rinse Condenser Coils
To effectively clean the condenser coils, rinse them thoroughly using a garden hose. Allow the water to flow down the coils, removing dirt and grime. Take caution not to bend the delicate fins while rinsing. Afterward, direct the hose to remove any visible debris on the outside. This process should be executed with care to maintain the optimal functioning of the coils and ensure their longevity.
Check Filter
To check your AC filter, ensure that light passes through it. If it doesn’t, you need to replace it. When installing a new filter, align the arrow with the direction of airflow in your unit. The frequency of filter replacements varies from home to home, so check it at least once a month. These Residential AC Maintenance Tips will improve the functioning of your air conditioner.
Visual Inspection
• Check if the AC unit looks level. If it is too far from the center, you might need professional assistance.
• Check the electrical connections and ensure no wires are exposed.
• Keep debris, leaves, and grass clippings at least 2 feet away from the AC unit.
Repair and Maintenance for Performance and Longevity
Keeping your residential AC in good condition is not as challenging as people think it is. All you need is to follow the aforementioned residential AC repair and maintenance tips and a little bit of elbow grease. If you want to save time or get the job done efficiently, contact an experienced and full-service HVAC company. Their experts will ensure your AC works perfectly and lasts longer.
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