Having a well-functioning air conditioning system is essential during the summer. However, an AC unit can break down over time for various reasons.
Getting routine maintenance twice a year minimizes the number of repairs an air conditioning unit needs. It also helps ensure that the air is cool and comfortable. Contact AC Repair Woodland Hills for professional help.
The thermostat is the heart of your AC unit, allowing you to control temperature and ensure comfort in your home or office. But just like any other appliance in your house, it can wear out over time and need to be replaced. This is especially true if you have an older model that’s reaching the end of its lifespan.
A faulty thermostat can lead to various problems with your air conditioning system. One of the most common is when it doesn’t properly read and maintain the temperature settings you input. This can cause your air conditioner to misread temperatures and produce temperatures that are too hot or too cold for you.
Another common problem with thermostats is when they start and stop cycling erratically. This can be a big problem for your air conditioner because it places stress on the compressor and the motors in the fan. This can cause them to burn out quickly.
In some cases, a faulty thermostat can even be dangerous. If you’re seeing signs of a faulty thermostat, it’s best to contact a professional immediately to prevent further damage or injury to your equipment.
While a faulty thermostat can cause many different issues, there are some things you can look out for to help identify when it’s time to call for repairs or replacement. If you notice any of the following issues with your thermostat, it’s likely time to call for repair or replacement:
If the thermostat display doesn’t light up, it means that it’s not receiving power. You can check this by going to your breaker box and finding the breaker that’s connected to your thermostat. Switch it to the “on” position, and the problem should be resolved.
If you see that the breaker is constantly getting switched to the “off” position, it’s likely due to a damaged wire inside of your thermostat. The thermostat will need to be opened up by a professional to repair or replace this wire.
Faulty Compressor
The compressor is the heart of an air conditioning system. It compresses the refrigerant gas that will then be pumped through the rest of the system to remove heat from your home. Unfortunately, like all mechanical parts, compressors can fail. That’s why it is important to keep your eyes and ears open to the following signs of a failing compressor.
One of the most common signs that a compressor is about to fail is a high-pitched squeal coming from your AC unit. This sound is usually caused by a failing compressor bearing that is producing excessive friction. It can also be caused by a damaged shaft seal that is not allowing the compressor to properly compress the refrigerant.
If you hear this sound, shut your AC unit off right away and call an experienced HVAC technician. They can provide you with a professional diagnosis and perform the necessary repair services to restore your AC unit.
Another common sign that your compressor is about to fail is a low flow of cool air from your vents. This can be a sign of a leaky compressor, or a problem with the condenser coils that are unable to remove heat from the air. A failing compressor will have to work harder and longer to cool your home, which can cause the compressor to overheat and fail.
A failing compressor is often a result of poor installation or lack of regular maintenance. It is always best to have an experienced HVAC technician install your AC system and ensure that it is properly maintained throughout the years to avoid any problems with the compressor.
If you notice any of these signs of a faulty compressor, contact an experienced HVAC company for immediate repairs. It is never worth it to ignore any warning signs, and by catching these issues early you can save yourself from the expense of a costly compressor replacement. Just remember that the compressor is located outside, so it can be more vulnerable to debris and damage from external sources such as tree branches and leaves.
Faulty Condenser Coil
If your AC system is unable to cool the air, it might be because the condenser coil is dirty or blocked. While the average homeowner can clean the outside of their unit, cleaning the coils requires a professional to get the job done properly. Luckily, this is a relatively inexpensive and straightforward fix for experienced technicians.
Dirty coils can hinder the AC system’s ability to release heat, leading to performance dips and higher energy bills. It’s important to schedule regular cleaning services for the evaporator coil to help prevent issues like these. In addition, routine inspections can reveal if the coil has visible damage such as corrosion, bent fins, or physical dents. This is important to address right away as the damage could cause the coil to develop leaks.
If the coil is damaged, then it may be necessary to replace it entirely. However, this is a costly process, and depending on the extent of the damage, it could be more cost-effective to replace the entire unit.
A blocked coil can also impede the flow of refrigerant through the system, leading to high energy bills and decreased cooling capacity. A professional can determine whether the problem is a result of dirt, blockage, or low refrigerant levels. If the refrigerant level is low, a technician can determine if it’s due to a leak in the condenser coil or an issue with the compressor.
The condenser motor is another important part of your AC system, and it’s vital to keep it in good condition. While it’s rare for the motor to go out all of a sudden, it can occur as a result of stress and improper maintenance. It’s important to monitor the motor regularly, and if you notice any problems, then it’s a good idea to call an expert for AC Repair.
A faulty control board can prevent the compressor from starting up, which will lead to problems with the air conditioner’s overall efficiency. This is a common issue that can be repaired easily by an expert. However, it’s worth noting that modern AC systems have come a long way in terms of energy efficiency, and it may be more cost-effective to replace your current unit with a newer model.
Faulty Ductwork
Ducts are one of the most common reasons that an air conditioning system needs repair. A faulty air duct can cause your system to work harder than it should. This can cause your energy bills to increase significantly. It can also lead to uneven temperatures throughout the house. A faulty air duct can also lead to mold and mildew.
When an HVAC system is working properly, it should distribute quality air evenly throughout the home. But if your home has holes or dents in the ducts, it may not be able to do that. This can lead to your AC working overtime and causing high energy bills. If your ducts are damaged, you should have a qualified professional inspect them.
A HVAC technician will be able to determine if the ducts are leaking and need to be repaired or replaced. They can also check for kinks or clogs that may be blocking the flow of air through the ducts. In addition, they can test the ducts to see how well they are sealing and whether any areas need to be sealed more tightly.
The most common reason for duct leaks is that they were installed incorrectly. This can be due to improper sizing or a problem with the way they were installed. A good HVAC professional should be able to resolve these problems before they become too serious.
Another sign that your ducts need repair is if they are leaking water or if you can hear whistles and humming coming from the vents. This means that the ducts are letting in hot or cold air from outside and it is not being distributed correctly.
Finally, if you notice that there is a musty smell coming from your vents, this can indicate that there is mold or mildew in the ductwork. This is a big problem because mold and mildew can spread to other parts of the home and it can make you and your family sick. A reputable HVAC professional will be able to get rid of the mold and mildew and they can also help you with a duct cleaning.