AC/HVAC units tend to be sometimes complicated when it comes to troubleshooting problems. While there are some common issues that are easy to fix, there are others as well that require a thorough inspection. If your AC/HVAC unit is showing certain unusual signs and you are not able to understand what the problem is, you might want to consider some important troubleshooting tips from air conditioning companies.
The AC Won’t Turn On
Although it is an uncommon problem, that does not mean it doesn’t happen. If you observe that your AC won’t turn on, it might be an electrical issue. What this means is that either electricity from the source itself is not available or is not reaching the unit. In such cases, you might want to check the circuit breaker or a blown fuse. Both cases will not let your AC turn on. First, check the circuit breaker and see if the switch is flipped. Turn it on and then if necessary, check for a blown fuse. There could be several reasons contributing to such issues. Therefore, first, check the circuit breaker and then determine the root cause of the problem so that it does not happen again.
Thermostat Issues
If your thermostat is not working properly or even calibrated, it will not tell the AC to turn on. If you observe that you have adjusted the temperature to its lowest setting and the AC still does not turn on, it is time that you call the professionals. It might be that the thermostat needs recalibration or replacement. If you have the older dial-type thermostat, then it is more likely to develop a calibration problem. However, the newer thermostats are relatively sometimes a bit complicated to program. Therefore, while troubleshooting your air conditioner, you should ensure that the thermostat is properly calibrated.
Low Refrigerant
If you observe that your air conditioner is not throwing the same cool air it used to, it might be due to a low refrigerant. This could be a result of a leakage or undercharging while installation. Plus, AC refrigerant leakage is one of the most common problems in air conditioners. Air conditioners require an appropriate amount of refrigerant to remove humidity and heat from the air. If a sufficient amount is not there, the air conditioner will not be able to throw cool air.
In addition to that, in case of a leak, you should not continue using the air conditioner. The reason is that the compressor will have to work harder and will be put under excess strain. As a result, it might give up. And since compressors tend to be expensive components, you might want to wait until the refrigerant is brought up to the required level.
Condenser Problems Will Heat Up The Unit
Apart from the refrigerant leaks and thermostat glitches, you should not ignore the compressor coils while troubleshooting AC/HVAC problems. The condenser has an important job to do. It forces the heat removed from the air and sends it outside the building. And since it is installed in the outside unit, it is exposed to dirt and debris on a daily basis. Condensers are tough components and are made to last. If you were to regularly maintain your AC/HVAC unit, it will prevent the accumulation of dirt and soot. Otherwise, the coils will become excessively dirty and heat up as well. This will force your unit to work harder and reduce its lifespan in the long run.
Leaking or Dirty Ducts
If you are experiencing warm air in some rooms while cool air in others, it might be due to leaking or dirt ducts. Although air ducts are tough and will hardly crack but sometimes rodents cut them or sometimes amateur installers will do a shoddy job while installation. Therefore, if there is a crack, the cool air will escape allowing only warm air to be distributed. Therefore, put duct inspection amongst other troubleshooting tips as well.
Final Word
Considering the troubleshooting tips above, you are bound to make the AC troubleshooting process a lot easier. If any of the tips do not solve the problem, hire HVAC repair services Chantilly. It might be that something else is causing the problem that might lead to a bigger problem if left ignored.