The air conditioning system in your Wheat Ridge, CO, home can help keep it cool and comfortable throughout the summer. As with any appliance or equipment in your home, some issues can occur. Understanding the most common AC issues and how to avoid them can help protect the integrity of your air conditioning system and ensure you enjoy indoor comfort all summer long.
What Is the Importance of a Clean Filter?
Your HVAC system has a filter that collects particulate matter from the air. This process not only supports healthy indoor air quality but also protects the interior components of your heating and cooling equipment. Most filters need to be replaced every 30 to 90 days. You should refer to the recommendations provided by the manufacturer of your filter to determine the exact time frame.
In between routine filter changes, inspect for signs of clogs or a large buildup of debris. If you hold your filter up to the light, you should be able to see light pass through it. If this doesn’t occur, your filter is likely dirty. Large clumps of debris also indicate that your filter needs to be changed. If your filter is damaged, dented, or broken, it likely isn’t doing its job and should be replaced.
What Issues Do Refrigerant Leaks Cause?
A professional will inspect your refrigerant lines for leaks or damage as part of your yearly HVAC maintenance appointment. However, issues can occur in the meantime. You’ll want to watch out for signs of leaky refrigerant lines, which include a lack of cool air coming from your vents, higher-than-normal energy bills, unusual noises, and longer-than-normal cooling cycles. Once refrigerant lines are repaired or replaced, your refrigerant will be refilled.
By keeping up with routine HVAC maintenance service, you can avoid refrigerant leaks. Minor repairs can often prevent major problems, such as a refrigerant leak.
How Do I Prevent Clogged Drain Lines?
Significant problems can occur when you have blocked AC drainage lines. This is the line through which moisture is moved away from your home once it is collected by your air conditioning system. It’s common for these drains to become obstructed with sediment, debris, or mineral deposits. Scheduling routine maintenance for your AC unit will reduce the risk of a clogged drainage line.
You can spot a clogged drainage line by looking for pooling water near your unit. When your AC unit is running, there shouldn’t be any musty or moldy smells coming from your vents. Overflowing drain pans can also indicate a clogged drain line.
Can Blocked Vents and Airflow Restrictions Cause Issues?
Your air conditioning system will run efficiently if there is ample airflow present. You should avoid blocking vents, registers, and intakes. Airflow restriction can lead to equipment strain, which results in frequent repairs and a shortened system lifespan. Keep all furniture and items away from your vents, allowing for at least 6 to 10 inches of space.
What Are the Most Common Thermostat Problems?
Your thermostat functions as the central hub for your HVAC system. If there are issues with this unit, it can impact your AC unit’s ability to cool your home. Make sure that you change your thermostat’s batteries at least once a year. You can have a professional calibrate your thermostat annually to ensure accurate readings.
Consider upgrading to a smart thermostat for better control over your air conditioning equipment. You can turn your AC unit on and off remotely, monitor electrical usage, and review important data that allows you to use your AC more efficiently.
What Are Common AC Electrical Problems?
Electrical components can wear out and become damaged, causing issues with your AC unit. Having your equipment inspected yearly can help spot these problems early so they can be repaired. Air conditioning repair professionals look for frayed or broken wires, loose connections, sparks, and smoke.
You should watch out for signs that indicate potential AC electrical issues. These include flickering lights when your AC turns on, burning smells coming from your vents or AC unit, insufficient cooling, and a sudden spike in energy consumption.
How Do I Address AC Compressor Failure?
If your AC unit fails to turn on, you have a major issue that should be addressed immediately. This equipment failure can occur for several reasons, including inadequate airflow, refrigerant issues, electrical problems, and debris on the interior components of your unit.
A professional may be able to make repairs that will get your AC unit up and running again. However, a total replacement may be necessary if your unit is very old, the problem is extensive, and the cost of replacing your unit isn’t much more than the cost of the repair.
What Causes Abnormal Smells Coming From Vents?
When your AC equipment is running, abnormal smells coming from your vents can indicate a problem. If the smell is moldy or musty, there may be an issue with your unit, resulting in moisture accumulation. A professional can inspect for mold or algae in your drain pan. You may have a dirty air filter that prevents optimal airflow. There may also be debris caked up on interior components, coils, or filters.
If your AC unit runs on gas and you smell gas or a strong sulfur smell, turn off your AC unit and exit the home. Call immediately for assistance.
Why Does My Home Have Hot and Cold Spots?
Your air conditioning system should provide cool air throughout your entire home. If you find that your indoor temperature is inconsistent, there are several issues to consider. Anything that impacts airflow in your system can be to blame, including a dirty air filter or obstructed vents.
Your ductwork may also be the source of the problem. If certain areas of your ductwork are damaged, conditioned air can leak out before it makes its way to your living spaces, making certain rooms feel warmer than you want them to.
You can schedule a routine duct inspection once a year to spot damage. Repairs can be made, or a professional can replace large sections of damaged ductwork. Having your ducts sealed once every three to five years can help maintain optimal airflow through your ducting, ensuring your home is cool throughout every room.
You can also have your ducts insulated to help retain the temperature of conditioned air as it travels to different areas of your home. This helps support indoor comfort while also helping you save money on your cooling costs. There may be tax incentives available for insulating your ductwork.
What Is the Most Common Part To Fail?
Capacitors help start and keep your AC unit running. They are components that commonly experience issues and need to be repaired. Watch out for signs of capacitor problems, such as abnormal humming noises, equipment that doesn’t start, or short cycling.
Fox Heating, Cooling & Plumbing can provide air conditioning maintenance, repair, and installation services in the Wheat Ridge area. We can also help you maintain comfortable and healthy indoor air quality through the use of air filtration equipment. Contact our knowledgeable team at Fox Heating, Cooling & Plumbing today for assistance in Wheat Ridge.
