HVAC and refrigeration systems are very beneficial to both residential and business facilities which require normal temperatures to be maintained. When the air conditioning system malfunctions, it can present discomfort. Several reasons exist, such as insufficient cooling, strange noises, or a complete failure to switch on. You may attempt some of the preliminary measures to handle the machine yourself. You can also rely on experts at https://www.airconservicing.org/aircon-general-service/ for more detailed information on air conditioning servicing.
1. Investigate the Power Supply
In an air conditioning unit, breakdowns are frequent, and the source of it could be neglected, like the power supply. If the air conditioner isn’t powering, confirm it is connected to an operative socket. Next, inspect if the circuit breaker has tripped, if it has, switch it back on and check if the unit powers up.
If it happens more than once, it might be caused by some other complex electrical problem deeper inside. If you are looking for quick and easy help with power-related issues, companies like 7Days AC can return your air conditioner to working order quickly.
2. Cleaning and Changing the Air filters
One of the most regular problems is caused due to clogged filters. With time, dust, dirt and other particles collect on the filters, which causes difficulty in air circulation and strains the system further. Inspect the air filter and either cleanse it or substitute it for a newer one. Changing the filter every month to the third month is advisable, based on how often the filters are used.
3. Check the Thermostat Settings
When an air conditioner is not as cold as we would like, the problem might lie with the thermostat. Any thermostat must be set to the desired temperature and “cool.” Check that it is not in “heat” or “fan” mode.
-
- Check that the Thermostat is set to Cooling: Sometimes, the unit can be on heat or fan mode, resulting in issues that need to be resolved for cooling.
- Review the Temperature on the Control: Ensure the thermostat is not lower than 22°C and the unit is expected to work at full capacity.
- Check the Accuracy of the Thermostat: If the thermostat is not accurately displaying the temperature, further adjustments will need to be made.
4. Inspect For Refrigerant Leaks
Refrigerant is a primary component when it comes to air conditioners and a leak of refrigerant can greatly impact the cooling capacity. You should notice that your unit blows warm air or is expectantly cooling for long periods without receiving cool air.
Solution: An HVAC expert must be called in any instance of a refrigerant leak. They will help diagnose the situation’s level, fill the refrigerant, and patch any leaks.
5. Wash the Condenser Coils
The externally situated coils, which are called condenser coils, serve to expel the heat that the refrigerant has previously absorbed. When those coils are dirty with soil or any rubbish, they struggle to release heat, which causes overheating. Power to the unit should be switched off, and the condenser coils should be scrubbed with soft brushes or a vacuum brush.
6. Examine the Drain Line
In relation to the functioning of an air conditioner, it produces moisture which is a by-product of cooling and that moisture is normally evacuated through a condensate drain line. Under normal circumstances, the condensate drain line can get blocked with mold, algae or other debris which results in water backing up. Check for any blockages and try using a wet/dry vacuum to clear the line or if that does not work, use a drain line cleaner specially made for air conditioners.
7. Look for Frozen Coils
Air conditioning units can experience problems such as the coils freezing. This is accompanied by poor airflow and low refrigerant supply. The frozen evaporator coils stop the air conditioner from cooling your home correctly.
The following signs might indicate that your coils are frozen:
- Ice developing on the Evaporator coils – The visibility of ice is an obvious indication that your coils are frozen.
- Air blowing through the Vents is warm – If the coils freeze, your unit might be able to blow cool air, but it may also blow warm or room-temperature air.
- Airflow is lower than Usual – Frozen coils can obstruct the airflow in the unit, making it less effective.
8. Monitor Unfamiliar Sounds
Unexpected banging, squealing, and grinding noises are warning signs that the air conditioner’s internal motors, such as the fan blades, or even the motor, may be failing.
Fix: Cut off the power and checking for obvious signs of trouble like loose screws or debris lying around. But if that noise continues, the most advisable step would be finding an HVAC technician to provide an examination.
9. Check the Cooled Air Distribution
If there is no cooling, your system may have airflow distribution problems. Furniture, draperies, for example, or other obstructions may block the air registers or vents. Before doing anything else, check all of your vents and returns. Confirm that the ducts are correctly positioned and sealed if you use central air.