How to Find a Good AC Repair Service

If you’ve ever woken up in the middle of the night with a sweaty forehead, then you know how important it is to have a working AC fixed. Unfortunately, AC units can break down and a professional air conditioner repair technician will need to take a look.

However, there are some common AC problems you can easily fix yourself before calling for help.

Refrigerant leaks

One of the most common reasons that an air conditioning system fails to cool is due to a refrigerant leak. There are several ways that technicians can detect a leak. They may be able to see oil collecting around the leak, or they can spray or dab soapy water on suspected areas of the system. They can also pressurize the system with nitrogen, which will push out any refrigerant gas and cause bubbles to show themselves.

Leaking refrigerant is dangerous and can lead to time-consuming AC repairs. It’s important to have a professional diagnose the problem and restore any lost refrigerant. Just adding more refrigerant will not fix the underlying issue and will just lead to problems again in the future. This is why having regular seasonal maintenance services is so important.

Thermostat problems

Whether you have a digital thermostat or one that is powered by a breaker, your HVAC system relies on it to relay messages to your furnace and air conditioner. If your thermostat isn’t sending the right signals, it can lead to all sorts of problems with your home’s comfort.

There are a few things that you can do to troubleshoot thermostat problems on your own. Start by removing the cover and replacing the batteries. This should power up the screen and reset your thermostat.

If this doesn’t fix the problem, check the breaker box and flip any switches that are in the off position back to the on position. You can also open the thermostat and inspect the wiring for loose or corroded connections.

Condenser problems

When refrigerant comes into contact with a heat-transferring evaporator coil, it changes from a gas to a liquid. It then moves into the condenser, where it loses its heat to outdoor air. Any problem with this process can lead to a system that doesn’t cool properly.

One common problem is a dirty condenser. Since this unit is outside, it’s prone to dirt accumulation. Homeowners should make sure it is regularly cleaned and that nothing obstructs the unit, such as bushes, shrubs, or grass.

Another problem is a damaged coil. This requires the assistance of a professional to repair, and it may require the replacement of the entire unit. A faulty run capacitor also can require replacing. It powers the fan motor, and its decline can cause the system to shut down.

Drainage problems

Drainage problems can be caused by a number of things, but one of the most common is that your AC drain line is clogged. The drain line is responsible for expelling the condensation that your AC wrings from the air, and it needs to be free of obstructions in order to function properly.

You can test your drain line by looking for standing water or signs of a full pan. If you can see the clog, it may be possible to clear it with a stiff brush and a wet/dry vacuum, but if you can’t reach the blockage easily, you should call an AC professional who offers maintenance services. They’ll have the tools and knowledge needed to safely remove clogs without damaging the line or compromising your unit.

Loud and unusual sounds

During normal operation, your AC’s thermostat should make a soft clicking sound. But if you hear loud clicking sounds, it means that the thermostat has stopped sending power to your air conditioner. This could be due to a faulty relay switch or electrical problems. A professional can take a look at the problem and decide what kind of fix is needed.

If you hear a buzzing sound, it may mean that there is an issue with your fan motor or compressor. Both of these parts can cause screeching sounds, and a technician can help you determine which one is at fault.

It’s important to listen for any unusual sounds coming from your cooling system and get them fixed as soon as possible. Ignoring them can allow them to escalate into bigger issues that may require costly repair.