When AC Repair Round Rock is needed, it’s always best to leave it to a professional. These experts have the training and tools to identify a wide range of problems.
For instance, a technician might have to clear a clogged drain or defrost the evaporator coil. They will also use digital multimeters to check voltage, current and resistance.
The compressor is the heart of your air conditioning system, responsible for pressurizing refrigerant gas into a form that allows it to absorb heat and transfer it from the indoor space to the outside. A malfunctioning compressor means reduced cooling efficiency and discomfort for your home. Fortunately, most AC problems that lead to compressor failure are preventable.
A faulty compressor is typically accompanied by unusual noises and other physical signs. These include a low humming sound or the clunking sounds of metal on metal, as well as an inability to produce cold air. If you notice these signs, call an HVAC professional right away for a diagnostic service and repair.
Another common indicator of a faulty compressor is the appearance of oil stains around your air conditioner unit. These stains indicate that the compressor is not properly sealed, which can cause the loss of refrigerant. The leaking refrigerant will create an unpleasant odor that may also spread throughout your home.
Lastly, if your electric bill increases without any apparent increase in energy usage, this could be an indication that the compressor is not working correctly. This problem can be caused by a number of factors, including low suction and discharge pressures, or the failure to charge the compressor with the correct type of refrigerant.
It’s important to be aware of these warning signs, especially if you have a reputable company doing your preventative maintenance. Ignoring them will only result in higher repair bills down the road, as well as possible damage to your system’s internal components.
Failed Contactor
A contactor is a crucial component of your AC unit’s electrical circuit. It transmits electricity to different parts of the system, including the compressor and fan motor. When a contactor malfunctions, it may affect the flow of electricity throughout your system, leading to problems like overheating and excessive wear and tear on the other components.
A failed contactor can also cause your system to short-cycle, which is when it switches on and off more frequently than normal. A faulty contactor can keep the system running when it’s not needed, causing it to consume more energy than necessary and driving up your electricity bills.
One of the most obvious signs that your contactor is failing is a clicking sound when the unit turns on or off. This sound is caused by the contactor’s coil attempting to close or open when it’s not meant to. If you hear this sound, it’s best to turn off the power supply to your AC unit and then remove the cover of the air conditioning contactor box. Once you have access to the contactor, look for signs of physical damage such as charring or pitting.
Another symptom of a failing contactor is when the system produces strange humming or buzzing sounds. This is usually caused by the contactor’s contacts or coil overheating and preventing them from making a proper connection to the coil. Dirt, dust, and other contaminants can also prevent a contactor from making a solid connection, leading to electrical arcing that causes mechanical failure. A faulty contactor will need to be replaced to restore your system’s functionality and avoid further issues with your air conditioning. Regular maintenance services can help prevent contactor failure by cleaning contaminants and ensuring the coil is properly energized.
Frozen Evaporator Coil
The evaporator coil is the part of your air conditioning system that is responsible for cooling the air in your home. If the evaporator coil becomes frozen, your air conditioner won’t be able to achieve your desired indoor temperature and you may notice that cold air isn’t coming out of your vents. Frozen evaporator coils can be caused by a number of issues, including improper maintenance and a dirty air filter.
Over time, your air filter can become clogged with dirt, dust, and debris. This clogging hinders the free flow of warm air through your AC unit, which can cause the evaporator coil to freeze. A professional AC technician can clean your air filters and help prevent clogs before they occur.
A frozen evaporator coil can also be a sign of low refrigerant levels. The air conditioner will have to work harder to cool your home, causing increased energy bills and wear and tear on other components. An AC technician can check your refrigerant levels and complete any necessary repairs to prevent your evaporator coil from freezing up again in the future.
Once the ice has melted from your evaporator coil, it’s important to let the coil dry completely before turning on your AC system. This prevents future problems and allows you to have an inspection completed on the blower fan, motor, and expansion valves.
Failing Thermostat
The thermostat is a key component in your AC system. If you notice that it’s displaying inaccurate temperatures, turning on and off randomly, or isn’t working at all, you need to call in professional technicians right away.
Many thermostat problems can be caused by improper installation. This is why it’s important to hire a professional to install your HVAC system and perform any necessary maintenance services. If you decide to self-install your thermostat, you may run into issues that can damage your system and lead to costly repairs later on.
Another common thermostat problem is short cycling, which occurs when the thermostat turns off the AC unit before it finishes its cycle. This puts extra stress on the compressor and blower motors and can result in premature failure. If you notice that your thermostat is short cycling, it’s time to contact a professional for an inspection and AC repair.
Lastly, a malfunctioning thermostat can be due to bad or worn batteries. Over time, the metal parts of a battery can become gummed up or full of corrosion, restricting the flow of electricity and causing the device to function incorrectly. If you suspect that your thermostat isn’t getting enough power, check the breaker box and replace the batteries.
Another easy way to test your thermostat is to turn it on and off manually, checking for a response. If the display screen doesn’t turn on, or you don’t hear a click sound, it’s likely that the battery is dead and needs to be replaced. You should also remove and clean the cover of your thermostat regularly to keep it free from dust and other debris that could cause a malfunction.
Failing Refrigerant
The compressor’s electric motor requires a certain level of refrigerant to keep cool. Without it, the motor will overheat and burn out. This can be a costly repair. Low refrigerant levels are also a sign of a leak in the system and can lead to humidity buildup in your home.
Often, a failing compressor is due to a leak in the coils or lines of the system. A qualified technician will be able to find and repair these leaks, restoring the compressor to full operation.
While a lack of cooling is the most common sign of a leak, the symptoms may vary depending on the severity of the problem. The technician should first use special gauges to evaluate the pressure and temperature inside your unit and look for clues to the cause of the leak. He or she may need to add dye to help locate the source of the leak. In addition to repairing the leak, the technician should evacuate and recharge your air conditioner using the correct procedures. This includes making sure the new refrigerant is the proper blend and that the system is not overcharged (which can damage the compressor).
Even the best AC units will experience some natural wear and tear over time, which can affect the integrity of the compressor components and lead to a leak. However, routine maintenance and regular tune-ups are the best way to catch these problems before they can become a serious issue. If you are experiencing any of the above warning signs, call for a tune-up or a repair immediately! The quicker these issues are addressed, the better for your comfort and your energy bills.