The air conditioning repair process involves diagnosing and repairing any issues with your air conditioner’s system. It includes examining the compressor, condenser, evaporator coil, fan motor and refrigerant leaks.
Depending on the problem, an AC technician may recommend new parts or repairs to get your air conditioner up and running. It also includes checking the ductwork to make sure there are no holes or other issues. It may also involve changing the filter, cleaning out the coils and adjusting the fan speed to improve air flow throughout your home.
While you’re waiting for a professional, try these simple air conditioner troubleshooting steps to see if they resolve the issue:
Check the Power
Ensure that the thermostat is on and that the power switch is on, both in your house and at the outdoor unit. Also, make sure that the breakers of the circuits supplying power to the air conditioning system aren’t tripped. Additionally, if the air conditioner isn’t working, it could be because the condenser fan motor is stuck or the compressor relay/contactor is defective.
Dirty Filters
Air filters clean out contaminants that are commonly found in household air such as dust and pollen. When these filters become too dirty, it can cause your AC system to malfunction and overheat. It is important to change your air filters regularly to keep them as clean as possible.
Frozen Coil
A common AC issue is ice on the evaporator coil, which prevents the system from cooling your home. It’s often caused by poor airflow, blocked return air ducts or a dirty air filter. Before calling a professional, first try these AC troubleshooting steps:
Check for Leaks
Another common reason to call for an AC repair is that the system has a refrigerant leak. A leaking refrigerant will not function properly and is a sign that it’s time for a replacement. Leaking refrigerant can also lead to warm air coming out of your registers or elevated energy bills.
Choosing whether to repair or replace your air conditioner isn’t always an easy decision. It’s usually more economical to repair a damaged air conditioner, but it can be difficult to know when an investment in a new unit is more affordable than continuing to repair your existing one. It is also important to understand how old your current air conditioner is and the estimated cost of replacing it, as this will help you decide on a course of action.
