There are many reasons why your air conditioner may be not running properly. If you suspect that your unit may need air conditioner repair, it is best to investigate the problem yourself. If you don’t know what to do, you can end up with an emergency situation and not get the cool comfort you need in your home. There are many reasons why your air conditioner may need repairs, so it is important to understand what you can do yourself to fix it before calling for professional help.
If your AC unit is more than five years old, you should consider getting a new one. These older units are more expensive to fix and it may be harder to find replacement parts for them. Also, a new HVAC tech might not be familiar with these older models. Therefore, you should look for a company with more experience in working with older units. Ultimately, the decision will depend on your budget and how much you’re willing to spend on air conditioning repairs.
Another common issue is a faulty thermostat. It is responsible for sending the desired temperature to the air conditioner. A faulty thermostat can cause your air conditioning system to overwork itself and cause your home to heat up much faster than it should. It’s important to check the thermostat’s electrical connections and fuse box to ensure loose electrical wires don’t cause the problem. If the thermostat continues to malfunction, you may have a problem with the evaporator coil or compressor. Also, check your indoor air vents to ensure they aren’t obstructed.
Other common problems that can cause your air conditioner to stop functioning are a broken thermostat, malfunctioning electrical panel, blown a fuse, or circuit breaker, excessive dirt and debris clogging the air filter, or faulty sensors. If you can’t fix these issues, it may be time to contact a professional air conditioning repair company.
Air conditioning repair costs can vary widely. While smaller parts may only cost a couple hundred dollars, larger replacement parts can cost several thousand dollars or more. Some technicians charge hourly, depending on the scope of the job. A technician can provide you with more details and let you know your options. If you are not sure whether your unit needs repairs, get an estimate to compare prices.
If you are concerned about the cost of air conditioner repair, try looking for a local contractor who is licensed and certified. Make sure the person you hire has a good reputation. If you can’t find an HVAC specialist in your area, you can check out independent contractor certification programs. This will help you find a reliable local contractor who has the experience and skill to diagnose and fix any issues you may have.
If you are confident with tools, you can fix a small AC issue yourself. However, it is always best to hire a professional to ensure your air conditioner is working properly. Trying to repair an air conditioner without a professional can be dangerous. Make sure you use proper safety precautions and take the appropriate tools. If you don’t have these, the warranty may be void. A licensed AC contractor can help you determine which tools to use and which parts are necessary to fix the problem.
Another common problem that can lead to an air conditioner not functioning properly is a low amount of refrigerant. This can result in little or no cooling. Recharging the refrigerant lines yourself is not a good idea – it is best to call an HVAC professional for help. This way, you won’t be tempted to work on the problem. In addition, you’ll be sure to avoid a more costly problem down the road.
Cleaning the air conditioner is also an essential step. To avoid the growth of mold and bacteria, clean the condensate drain line every time you use the air conditioner. Occasionally, this may be clogged, so clean it thoroughly. In some cases, cleaning the condenser may also be required to get it running again.
You should schedule yearly maintenance and cleaning of your air conditioner. This will include cleaning the coils, the drain line, and the fins of the outdoor unit. Having annual maintenance done will help you avoid costly air conditioner repair. Also, it will help keep your home warranty coverage.