As summer gets closer and closer, air conditioner service ought to be something that crosses your mind a little more often as you ponder your whole home comfort. Of course there are various things to keep an eye out for when thinking about air conditioner service, but a few problems are more typical than others as you prep to ramp up your air conditioner use for the year.
No matter when you last had your air conditioner service completed, be sure to keep these five potential problems in mind when your air conditioner is on the fritz.
1. Coolant leaks
There are a couple things that can cause low refrigerant levels. It may be due to an undercharge during installation or the system could have developed a leak over time. Adding refrigerant to an already leaky air conditioner is like using a band aid on the Hoover Dam. It’s not going to cut it. Leaks should only be taken care of by trained experts like the ones at Van Haaften Plumbing & Heating in Pella so that you can be sure your system is working at its best. Having that simple air conditioner service done means that you’ll fix the leak and have the refrigerant charge match the precise specifications of the manufacturer, which provides you with peak performance and efficiency.
2. Lack of maintenance
Allowing filters and coils to build up with dirt and grime will not only lower your system’s efficiency, but it could cause a host of other issues if they’re not addressed. Arranging routine maintenance on your air conditioner with Van Haaften Plumbing & Heating means that you’ll have a system offering you comfort when you desire it most.
3. Turning on and off
The air conditioner fan controls and compressor are most prone to wear, and if you have an air conditioner that cycles on and off frequently, you’ll likely have this issue. You’ll also want your service provider to look at the wiring to make sure there isn’t any corrosion and that the wiring job itself is done correctly. Cycling on and off during cooling season might also be a sign that your system is not sized correctly, and if that is the case you will also notice your home might have high humidity issues. Because there are several concerns to look at, you want to be sure you’re dealing with someone as knowledgeable and experienced like the pros at Van Haaften Plumbing & Heating.
4. Sensor damage
Air conditioners and their thermostat sensors are another common issue that can lead to air conditioner service or AC repair. Thermostat sensors, usually located behind the control panel, measure the temperature of air coming into the coil. This helps your air conditioner know whether it needs to turn on or stay off. So if the sensor is out of place you could be left with a system that cycles constantly.
5. Drain lines clogging
Condensation is made by your air conditioner during the cooling process, and your system is created to take care of its own drainage. If the drain becomes clogged you could be subjected to mold or mildew problems, which can lead to an entirely different set of issues.
No matter the age of your air conditioner, there will always be problems that can rear their heads when it is used frequently. Summer is when your system should be running at its highest level, so give the pros at Van Haaften Plumbing & Heating in Pella a call at 641-628-3621.
