AC repair professionals can supply accurate cost estimates for repairs versus complete system replacement so clients can make informed decisions regarding their budget constraints. They can also provide options for more efficient new technology solutions than older equipment.
Many issues that can arise with an air conditioning system are minor problems with simple fixes. However, if left unchecked, these minor issues can lead to more significant problems that will impact the overall functioning of your HVAC system. Contact AC Repair Encino for professional help.
Your thermostat is the brains of your home’s air conditioning system, making sure it turns on and off as needed to provide your family with optimal comfort. When it doesn’t work properly, however, the problem can spread throughout the entire AC unit and prevent the equipment from reaching its full potential.
If your thermostat isn’t working, there are a few things you can try before calling in an HVAC professional for AC repair. The first step is to make sure the device has power by checking its circuit breaker. If it has been flipped off, flipping it back on should solve the issue. You can also try replacing the batteries.
Another common thermostat issue is a display that’s not reading accurately. This can be caused by several factors, including low batteries or an improperly calibrated device. It’s recommended that you calibrate your thermostat on a regular basis in order to maintain its accuracy. A professional can do this for you safely and quickly.
Lastly, it’s important to make sure your thermostat is clean. Over time, dust, soot and cigarette smoke can accumulate on the mechanical and electrical components inside of your thermostat. This can affect how well it works and even damage the unit. You can clean your thermostat by using canned compressed air or a soft brush to remove any dirt from the interior of the device.
Besides making sure your thermostat is in good working condition, you can also ensure that the vents in your home are open and unobstructed so that cool air can circulate freely throughout your house. This will also help your system run more efficiently by preventing the AC from having to work so hard to cool down your home. By taking these simple steps, you can extend the life of your air conditioning unit and keep your family comfortable all summer long. A professional AC technician will be able to diagnose and fix any issues that you may have with your thermostat. They will have the tools and knowledge to do this quickly and effectively.
Refrigerant Leaks
One of the most common AC repair issues involves refrigerant leaks. The refrigerant, known as Freon in the industry, plays a critical role in cooling your home. Its job is to absorb the heat from inside your house and then release it outdoors. If your air conditioning system is losing refrigerant, it will take longer to cool your home and your energy bills will go up.
In many cases, the first sign of a refrigerant leak is when you notice your air conditioner is not performing as it used to. You may also hear a hissing sound coming from your vents or see ice forming on the evaporator coils. If you notice any of these signs, it’s time to call an air conditioning repair professional.
When a refrigerant leak is left untreated, it can lead to the destruction of your compressor. This is a costly problem that will require extensive repairs or even replacement of your entire system. A skilled HVAC technician will be able to spot the signs of a refrigerant leak and can fix it before it becomes too serious.
Often, AC refrigerant leaks occur because of corrosion in the piping. Copper is typically used for the refrigerant lines, and although it’s corrosion-resistant, there are certain types of corrosion that can weaken it to the point of leaking. For example, formicary corrosion can form on the surface of copper pipes and create small holes in the line.
Another cause of AC refrigerant leaks is vibration damage. Over time, vibrations from the compressor and other parts of the air conditioning unit can cause the seals to wear down, causing the refrigerant to leak out. Fortunately, this is a problem that can be prevented with regular maintenance visits. During a maintenance visit, the technician will look for signs of a leak and can fix it before it gets out of hand.
Some air conditioning repair companies will offer to add refrigerant to an AC system that is low on refrigerant. However, this is not the best option because it will cost you more in the long run. Adding more refrigerant will only make your air conditioner work harder, which means you will be paying more on your electric bill. It is also more expensive than simply replacing your old, inefficient AC with a new ENERGY STAR certified model.
Faulty Compressor
The compressor is the heart of your AC system and plays an important role in its ability to cool your home. It has to be in good working condition in order for your cooling system to function properly. A faulty compressor may be causing your AC to work harder than necessary in order to cool the air, which can lead to increased energy costs. If you notice any of the following signs that your compressor is not functioning correctly, contact a qualified AC repair technician right away:
Strange noises coming from your compressor can indicate problems with it. Chattering, squealing, and whining sounds can all signal that the compressor is beginning to fail. These sounds can come from various problems, including bearing wear, a seizing shaft, or a lack of refrigerant.
If you hear these types of noises, turn off your air conditioner and consult a professional right away. They will be able to determine which issue is causing the sound and fix it accordingly.
Another common sign that your compressor is failing is if it seems to take a long time to start up when you switch on the air conditioner. A ‘hard start’ problem can cause the compressor to burn out prematurely, and should be dealt with immediately by an AC repair specialist.
A faulty compressor can also cause your cooling system to blow warm air, even when it is set to the highest temperature setting. This can be caused by a variety of issues, including a low refrigerant level, an internal thermostat problem, or a bad compressor clutch.
A faulty compressor can be difficult to fix, but replacing it is the best option for most homeowners. A qualified AC repair company will be able to advise you on which type of compressor is best for your system and will help you purchase and install it correctly. If you attempt to do this yourself, it is likely that you will damage your compressor and end up paying more for repairs in the future. Electrical repairs are never a DIY project, and should only be done by a qualified HVAC professional who has the proper tools and training to handle these high-pressure components.
Cooling Issues
When you turn on your AC, you expect a rush of cool air to blow from your vents. If you don’t get this, it could be a sign of a few different problems. Whether it’s a dirty air filter, an overly-complicated thermostat, or an undersized compressor, your AC repair technician can help you resolve the issue and get your home cool again.
If your system is running but no cool air is coming out of the vents, the first thing you should do is check the breaker. Flip the breaker to the “on” position and try again. If this doesn’t work, contact a HVAC professional as soon as possible for an emergency AC repair.
The ductwork may be to blame for the cooling problem if it’s not properly sized or sealed. A qualified AC repair technician will be able to determine if there are any gaps or leaks in the ductwork and make any necessary repairs.
It’s also important to keep the air ducts clean and clear of any obstructions that might restrict airflow. A clogged air filter or excessive dust can cause the system to overwork and lead to overheating, which will eventually wear out the compressor and blower motor.
A broken capacitor or contactor is another common reason for a lack of cool air. The contactor helps to power the compressor and outdoor fan motors, so if it’s damaged or corroded, your AC will struggle to cool the home. Often, you’ll hear a clicking sound when the capacitor is starting to fail.
The HVAC expert will also check the electrical components of the air conditioning unit to see if anything is overheating or burning out. This might involve replacing a blown fuse or fixing loose wiring. It’s essential to have a qualified professional perform any wiring repairs, as they can be dangerous.
If the AC system is very old and in need of replacement, a skilled technician will be able to provide options for different types of systems that would suit the homeowner’s needs. They will also be able to supply accurate cost estimates to enable the client to decide on which option is most appropriate for their budget constraints.
