AC Repairs a Homeowner Might Not Know They Need

If an air conditioner no longer cools as it should, there is a good chance of a refrigerant leak.

AC repairs rarely cross a homeowner’s mind when their system runs as expected. However, that could all change when they notice their home isn’t getting cold enough and their energy bills skyrocket.

There are obvious signs of wear and tear, such as leaks, noises, and smells; however, there are times when there are no apparent signs. Homeowners should be aware of HVAC systems’ problems and ways to identify the need for a professional service call.

Following are some common AC repairs homeowners may not know they need.

Regular system maintenance

Homeowners who enjoy the refreshingly cool air their HVAC provides in the summer must take care of their system. It is easy to ignore the signs that a unit is no longer operating at 100%.

A simple way to avoid this common mistake is to schedule regular maintenance for the unit.

During an inspection, the technician will identify any potential problems so homeowners can authorize repairs before a complete system failure can happen.

Repair refrigerant leaks

If an air conditioner no longer cools as it should, there is a good chance of a refrigerant leak. A refrigerant leak is problematic for several reasons.

• Refrigerant leaks impact the coils, which may corrode.

• Refrigerant is terrific for achieving cooled-off indoor air but harms the environment.

• An HVAC system operates most efficiently when the refrigerant level is correct; it should never be over- or undercharged.

Fix buzzing electrical wires

An electrical issue for an AC system is not ideal. Homeowners cannot see an electric problem, but they can hear it. While the AC unit is operating, if there is a buzzing sound, it is either the wiring, the load, or the breaker.

Electrical issues that are left unresolved can cause additional, more expensive problems. Instead of waiting for a definitive sign—a complete system shutdown—contact a reliable HVAC technician to identify the problem and make the necessary repairs.

Unclog drains

While a home’s cooling system utilizes fluids to do its job, it also produces condensation. To handle the excess water, central AC systems have a condensate line that goes from the indoor air handler out of the house. The water in the line is caught when the AC dehumidifies the air it treats. If that line clogs, the unit backs up.

When the condensation overflows, it could reach the rest of the unit’s hardware. Stagnant water in the AC is an ideal location for algae or mold to grow. Their presence poses indoor air quality issues because when the air blows back into the home, it will carry bacteria spores and particles. Individuals suffering from allergies or respiratory issues may be affected.

Remember that this damage is also preventable. During regular maintenance, a technician will inspect the drain line.

Clean condenser coils

Condenser coils help move heated air out of an AC system so it can cool the home. Condenser coils are located outside and can be affected by cold weather, dirt, and tree debris.

The coils cannot be frozen or dirty for the AC to work efficiently. Since homeowners cannot necessarily see the coils, this is a repair they may not know they need. Technicians are trained to spot the signs and can make the needed repairs.

Fix a compressor fan

Every cooling system component is essential as the parts work in tandem to produce cold air and improve a home’s comfort level. The compressor fan is considered the heart of a cooling system. If broken, the rest of the unit cannot do its job. When the compressor fan breaks, the unit will still turn on and off, and homeowners will hear the fan running. They will not, however, feel any cold air coming from the vents.

A broken fan is not necessarily a repair that homeowners will recognize. However, if the homeowner listens closely, they can spot it. A well-functioning compressor fan clicks when the unit has to begin producing cold air again. If it does not click, but the fan continues to turn, there is a problem, and the homeowner needs a technician to repair it.

The repairs homeowners don’t know they need can often be prevented with regular annual or biannual maintenance by a reputable HVAC technician. Many times, the technician will identify parts that are looking worn or an area that needs additional attention, such as a good cleaning. If the parts need to be repaired or replaced, the technician can make the necessary fixes.

Addressing issues before they become problems is a great way to avoid more expensive repairs or total replacements.

CMB Air is a residential heating and cooling installation, service, and repair company with 15+ years of experience serving Tampa and surrounding areas. If you need a new air conditioner, repair, maintenance or some other service, we can help! Call (813) 447-1443 today!