As a homeowner, you can easily troubleshoot your air conditioning system and resolve the problem. However, there will be times when you will require professional air conditioner service from your local HVAC dealer.
Troubleshoot Your Air Conditioning System
From very simple issues like an incorrectly set thermostat or a dirty filter to more complex situations requiring component replacement. Things you should look into before calling a professional.
- The Thermostat Has Been Set Inaccurately
When you notice your home becoming a little hotter than usual, check the thermostat settings first. Check that it is set to cool. If the thermostat is set to cool, double-check the temperature setting to ensure it hasn’t been changed. If it is turned off, set to heat, or set to the constant fan, return it to cooling mode. Wait a few minutes after the system comes on before checking for cold air blowing from the registers.
This is one easy way to troubleshoot your air conditioning system.
- Air Filter
An air filter in or near the indoor air handler unit may be part of your air conditioning system. A clogged air filter can obstruct airflow and reduce cooling in your home. In more severe cases, it can cause the system to completely shut down.
If your thermostat is working properly but you still don’t have cool air, look for your system’s air filter, turn it off, remove the filter, and inspect.
This is one easy way to troubleshoot your air conditioning system.
- The Condenser Unit Is Broken
Your central air conditioning system, as previously stated, most likely includes an outdoor condenser unit. The condenser unit’s exterior features a large outdoor coil that wraps most of the way around the unit.
If your air conditioner is running but not lowering indoor temperatures, one possible cause is a clogged or blocked condenser coil.
When working properly, the condenser fan draws air into the outdoor unit via the condenser coil, extracting heat energy from your home. A dirty coil can result in decreased energy efficiency, a lack of cool air from the registers, or, in extreme cases, a complete system shutdown or compressor damage from overuse.
This is one easy way to troubleshoot your air conditioning system.
- Broken Heat Pump
Your outdoor unit could be a heat pump in some cases. A heat pump resembles an air conditioner, but it contains additional components that allow it to both cool and heat your home. It functions similarly to an air conditioner when cooling and is prone to the same problems. Check the thermostat settings, the air filter, and the condenser unit for previously described issues if your heat pump system isn’t cooling.
This is one easy way to troubleshoot your air conditioning system.
- The Evaporator Coil Has Frozen
Your central air conditioning system’s indoor component will include an evaporator coil. If your indoor unit is a furnace, the evaporator coil is located outside the furnace in its cabinet. If the indoor unit is a fan coil, the evaporator coil is housed within the fan coil cabinet. The evaporator coil circulates warm indoor air. Learn More About Air Conditioning Repair
The following are symptoms of a frozen evaporator coil:
- Frost forming on copper refrigerant tubing exiting the coil cabinet
- Inadequate cooling
- Higher utility bills
- Excessive condensate drainage in the vicinity of your indoor unit
- Frost forming on exterior refrigerant tubing or the outdoor unit in extreme cases
- Refrigerant Leak
A refrigerant is a chemical that is necessary for cooling. It circulates through the system’s indoor and outdoor coils, changing from liquid to gaseous state, drawing heat energy and humidity from the indoor air and releasing it outside.
A refrigerant leak, depending on its severity, can contribute to your AC system not blowing cold air, cause your system to run for longer periods without adequately cooling your home, or cause a damaged or failed compressor and complete system shutdown.
This is one easy way to troubleshoot your air conditioning system.
GET IN TOUCH WITH A HVAC DEALER
If you’ve exhausted all of the mentioned options, then it is time to contact an HVAC dealer. It’s important not only for your comfort but also for your air conditioner. If you notice anything out of the ordinary, contact your local HVAC technician.
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