Expert Contributor by Len Sciulli Len Sciulli & Sons
10 PROBLEMS Your Air Conditioning Unit Could Face This Spring
When warm weather hits, your air conditioning system can bring welcome relief – but only if its many components are all “good to go!” Here’s the 10 most common problems we encounter during the cooling season. 1. Tripped Breaker Your AC won’t start if its breaker is tripped. Other simple causes are a bad breaker, loose wire, or a bad capacitor. Not addressing simple problems can lead to more expensive repairs. 2. Dirty Filter The system filter should be cleaned (or replaced, if disposable) monthly. Dirty filters reduce indoor air quality; make your home less comfortable; and can result in frozen indoor coils and eventual serious repairs. 3. Refrigerant Leaks AC systems are sealed and should never leak refrigerant. Leaks reduce a system’s cooling efficiency and increase electricity use. The coil may freeze and the compressor could become damaged. 4. Switch Turned Off Some systems have a wall switch for safety and convenience. If that switch is turned off, your AC won’t start. 5. Thermostat Problems Most thermostats must be switched between heating and cooling modes. If the mode switch is in the wrong position or it breaks, your AC won’t start. Quality digital thermostats rarely fail; cheaper thermostats might. 6. Clogged Drain Line Air conditioners lower indoor temperature while pulling moisture out of humid air. That moisture drans outside. Spring AC maintenance includes flushing the drain lines. This also helps prevent the growth of algae. 7. Contactor A contactor is an electromechanical switch in your air conditioner. f the contactor’s silver coating wears off, it can stick, causing the outside unit to run continuously. Seasonal maintenance should include inspecting and cleaning the contactor, and replacing it if failure appears imminent.
8. Dirty Evaporator Coil This coil requires periodic cleaning so dust and particle buildup don’t restrict the coil’s heat transfer capabilities or reduce duct system air flow. 9. Dirty Condenser Coil A dirty or restricted condenser coil reduces cooling capacity and increases electricity usage. Seasonal maintenance can quickly identify and resolve this problem. 10. Duct Leaks Your duct system delivers conditioned air throughout your home. If the ducts leak and/or are located outside of living space, you’re paying to heat or cool the outdoors. Leaks in the return air ducts cause unconditioned, unfiltered air to be pulled into your home. A small investment in regular seasonal maintenance can help minor problems from turning into major (expensive) system failures. Spring-clean your AC system so it’s ready to keep you cool on the hot Summer days that are right around the corner. NS
HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING
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