The best way to avoid the need for expensive air conditioner repairs is by having a good maintenance schedule in place. This includes regularly cleaning filters, checking belts, and topping off the refrigerant. But even with a solid plan, there may be times when you need to call in an AC repair expert.
If you’re experiencing a power surge that trips your breaker or blows your fuse, it can cause a variety of problems that may seem to be related to the AC. Flipping the breaker or replacing the fuse can often fix this, but more serious electrical issues will need to be addressed by an electrician or air conditioning repair professional.
Another common problem with ACs is dirty evaporator coils. This can affect efficiency and lead to poor performance. You can help avoid this by using a soft-bristled brush and mild detergent to clean the coils, then disconnecting the drain line from the unit and using a wet/dry shop vac to suck out any remaining condensation.
Keeping the condenser coils clean can also improve air flow. Dirty coils will block air from entering the unit, which could cause it to work harder than necessary. This can lead to a loss of efficiency and higher utility bills. A good rule of thumb for when it’s time to get your coils cleaned is if you can see dirt or dust collecting on the top of the unit.
A faulty blower motor is another issue that can cause AC units to not cool properly. This is usually an easy fix and can be completed in a matter of hours. The technician will disassemble the indoor blower unit, replace the motor and then reassemble it to ensure everything is in place and working properly.
Leaks in the refrigerant lines can be hard to spot, but can have a major impact on your cooling system. This is because a loss of refrigerant will prevent your system from being able to cool your home. Fortunately, this is an easy fix, and can typically be done the same day that the technician comes out for an inspection or maintenance call.
The compressor is the heart of your AC system, and it takes an enormous amount of strain over the summer. Unfortunately, that strain can cause the compressor to wear out or break down completely. Replacing the compressor can be costly, but it’s generally more cost-effective than trying to save money by fixing a smaller component like the condenser fan or control board.
Of course, the best way to avoid these and other issues is to have a good maintenance routine in place. An annual maintenance visit from an air conditioning repair company will help preserve optimum efficiency levels throughout the summer and help keep your energy bills low.