HVAC

Troubleshooting Tips for AC Repair

When your air conditioner fails to keep you cool, you need an expert AC repair immediately. Our technicians can help with everything from system optimization to cleaning dirty filters and repairing refrigerant leaks.

AC Repair

First, determine whether your problem is easily fixable. These simple at-home fixes may save you from having to call an HVAC professional right away. For professional help, contact AC Repair Round Rock.

Thermostats are responsible for gauging your home’s temperature and working with the rest of the HVAC system to guarantee that your house is being heated or cooled as it should be. If your thermostat isn’t working as it should, the problem can impact your comfort and lead to other issues within your system. Fortunately, you can often avoid expensive heating and cooling repair by performing some simple troubleshooting.

If your thermostat isn’t responding to a temperature change, it could be that it’s not getting the power it needs from either the batteries or wiring. Replacing the batteries and making sure the unit is on the correct setting are the first things to try if your thermostat is unresponsive.

An unresponsive thermostat can also indicate that the internal components are wearing out and need replacement. If your thermostat is displaying error codes or changing its settings on its own, there may be an electronic problem with the unit.

Another common issue is a dirty or dusty thermostat. If your thermostat isn’t cleaned regularly, dust can build up in the covers and interfere with the ability to accurately read temperatures. It’s a good idea to use a clean cloth to remove the cover and dust around the thermostat to prevent this from occurring.

The location of your thermostat can also affect its performance. If it’s located near a draft or other heat source, it might register higher temperatures than it should and cause the HVAC system to work harder than it should. It’s best to keep your thermostat in a well-ventilated area.

Sometimes, it’s necessary to replace your thermostat altogether. If you find yourself replacing yours on a regular basis, it might be time to upgrade to a more modern model. However, before you do this, make sure to turn off the power to your furnace and air conditioning system at the circuit breaker box.

If your new thermostat isn’t working as it should, it may be because the installation was done incorrectly. This can lead to complications with your HVAC system and can be a costly mistake.

Capacitor Issues

A capacitor is an electrical component that stores energy. It is shaped like a cylinder or beverage can and has a specific voltage rating. It helps start the motors that power the compressor, blower, and outdoor fan in your air conditioning system to help cool your home. When a capacitor starts to fail, it is important to contact an AC repair professional right away.

There are many bad capacitor symptoms to look for. One of the most obvious is warm air blowing through your vents instead of cool, refreshing air. Another common symptom is difficulty starting your air conditioner. If it takes several seconds or even minutes for your AC to turn on, this is a strong indicator of a failing capacitor.

If you are noticing frequent cycling of your air conditioner, this is also a sign of a failing capacitor. This erratic behavior causes your unit to overwork and will lead to premature wear and tear. Another symptom is an unusual buzzing or humming sound coming from your AC access panel.

You might also notice that your energy bills are higher than usual without a change in your family’s energy use or lifestyle. A failing capacitor requires your air conditioning system to work harder to produce the same results, which leads to high energy bills.

While replacing a capacitor can seem complicated, it is not difficult for an experienced AC service tech. After disconnecting the wires and removing the mounting brackets, the new capacitor can be installed quickly and professionally. The technician will then reconnect the wires and test the system for proper functioning.

Capacitors are essential components for your air conditioning system. If you’re experiencing any of the signs listed above, call Evergreen right away to schedule an AC repair or maintenance service. Our technicians will ensure your system is working properly and efficiently to keep your home comfortable. We offer a range of services including heating and cooling, air duct cleaning, and HVAC installation. We also have a wide selection of HVAC parts and accessories to meet your needs.

Condenser Fin Issues

Surrounding the condenser unit is a set of thin fins that help to dissipate heat. However, if these fins become bent due to an impact or just the natural wear and tear of being exposed to the elements (like hail or pressure washing), then they can negatively affect cooling efficiency. Bent fins are a common issue, but can often be fixed with the use of a fin comb and a little effort on your part. Just make sure to turn off the power to the condenser first and use a comb to gently work through the coil fins until they are straight.

Another common problem with the condenser is when the fan or motor isn’t functioning properly. The large fan in the condenser is responsible for blowing air across the coil, which in turn helps to cool the refrigerant and circulate it throughout your home. However, if the fan isn’t spinning or it’s working very slow, this can be due to a number of issues. For instance, the motor may have simply burned out and needed to be replaced. The fan relay switch could also have gone bad, which can be replaced fairly easily by a professional technician.

Lastly, it’s possible that your condenser’s service valve has been damaged. This is an essential component that allows you to access the compressor without having to shut down the entire AC system, so it’s important that it works as intended.

A faulty compressor can be a huge issue for your AC system, as it’s the heart of the system and is responsible for circulating refrigerant. This can cause a lot of problems, from overheating to not producing enough cooling. Luckily, this is generally an easy fix that can be completed by an experienced HVAC professional. However, other issues, such as a blown capacitor or a defective control board, can be a much larger problem that requires a replacement. The good news is that replacing the capacitor can be a relatively simple and inexpensive repair job for an experienced professional. For more information on these types of repairs, contact a local AC company.

Freon Issues

Freon is a key component to your air conditioner’s cooling function. This chemical coolant absorbs heat from your home’s air before releasing it outdoors. Unfortunately, it can leak from your system over time due to manufacturing flaws and aging components. Freon leaks can cause reduced cooling efficiency, increased humidity, and higher energy bills. If you suspect your AC has a leak, call a professional right away to fix the problem.

You can recognize a Freon leak in several ways, including odd noises and a lack of cool air coming out of your vents. Other signs include ice building up on your copper line or a hissing sound during the cooling cycle. Additionally, you might notice your electric bills increasing as the air conditioning unit has to work harder to produce cold air.

Aside from the negative impact on your home’s cooling, a Freon leak poses a health risk for you and your family. This chemical is toxic if inhaled in large quantities and can lead to nausea, dizziness, and shortness of breath. If you see freon leaking from your AC, it’s important to call a professional to seal the leak and replace the lost refrigerant as soon as possible.

Leaks can also strain your system to the point that major components like your compressor could fail. This could be particularly dangerous if the system is older and no longer under warranty. In this case, replacing the entire system may be more cost-effective than repairing the damaged components.

Refrigerant leaks are a common issue with AC repair, but catching the problems early can prevent them from getting worse and impacting your cooling efficiency. Keeping an eye out for signs of trouble like low Freon levels, a lack of cool air, and higher energy bills can help you stay comfortable throughout the summer. If you notice any of these issues, contact a Humble HVAC technician to fix the problem quickly and efficiently.