Save Money & Avoid Damage: Smart AC Repair Decisions
Some homeowners have a strong independent streak and a desire to learn how to repair and maintain every system in their home. This urge is so strong that chains of box stores abound, serving the do-it-yourself homeowner community. However, not every project can or should be a DIY project for homeowners. That is certainly the case with AC repair problems with an air conditioning system.
For sure, there are DIY maintenance tasks that a homeowner can do on a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system, such as:
- Changing the air filter quarterly
- Cleaning the outdoor condenser unit with a garden hose. Just take off the screws that hold the covers and run water on the condenser coil until it runs clean. Make sure to return the cover and do not use a power washer
- Change the batteries in the thermostat. Do it at the same time you change batteries in smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.
When a problem arises with an air conditioner system, there are a few things to check before calling an HVAC technician, but they are quite simple.
Loss of Power. When the power is on in the home, but the air conditioner is not running, there are a few checks to make before you call a technician.
- Check the thermostat. The temperature setting might have been bumped by accident and is not calling for a cooling cycle. Make sure that the thermostat batteries are charged. Change the batteries as necessary and bump the temperature setting down to call for a cooling cycle. If nothing happens, then
- Check the circuit breaker. The electric service panel should have a double breaker assigned to the HVAC system, and it might have a second double breaker assigned to the AC. If either of these breakers is tripped, turn them completely OFF and then turn them to the ON position. Give the system a minute or two to detect a call for a cooling cycle. If the air conditioner does not come on or if it comes on and the breaker trips again, call a technician.
Insufficient Cooling. If the system is running, but the air is either hot or not very cool, there are a few things to check before calling a technician.
- Check the air filter. A clogged air filter can reduce air flow and result in reduced cooling. If the filter is dirty, change it and see if the issue is resolved.
- Check the air handler closet for a water leak. If water is leaking from the cabinet, trip the AC breaker and remove the screws to open the evaporator chamber (the only chamber with a removable plate). If you observe ice on the evaporator coil, turn the system off and call a technician. Do not chip at or attempt to dislodge the ice; let it melt.
- Check the condenser. If there is no evidence of water leaking from the air handler cabinet, check the outdoor condenser unit. Specifically, check for an ice buildup on the condenser. If ice is observed, turn off the system to avoid further damage and call a technician.
Leaking Water. One function of the air conditioner is to remove humidity from the air; this is a byproduct of cooling, but it keeps a home healthier and more comfortable. If the air conditioner is cooling properly, but water is leaking from the air handler cabinet, there is a simple task to try.
- Trip the breaker to the air conditioner and remove the screws to expose the evaporator chamber. Below the A-shaped coil of tubes will be a collection pan that collects the condensation. This water must drain away, but if debris or algae have formed to block the drain line, it will spill over a leak. Dry the water in the pan and clean away rust, dust, or anything else in the pan.
Combine one cup of water and one cup of white vinegar and pour it into the pan. Vinegar should inhibit algae growth. Replace the cover and restore power to the air conditioner. Observe for the next couple of hours. If the water no longer leaks, it is well and good. But if the leak continues, call a technician.
If any other problem arises, like unusual noises or smells, or if your utility bill takes a sudden spike, there are no do-it-yourself tasks. Call a Northwind AC repair technician.
Save Money & Avoid Damage: Smart AC Repair Decisions
Homeowners should decide which air conditioning maintenance tasks are suitable for DIY, such as changing filters and cleaning the condenser, while emphasizing the importance of calling for professional AC repair for more complex issues. We strongly caution against attempting DIY fixes for unusual noises, smells, or significant issues like refrigerant leaks, stressing the need for expert AC repair to avoid further damage and ensure safety.
Northwind Air Conditioning and Heat can help answer your AC repair questions for your home. Contact us and get the help you need.
