Before temperatures begin to rise, most Baltimore residents do not remember to prepare their AC system. To have a smooth summer and minimize the risk of a breakdown, it is advisable to spend some time with system preparation. Clean the accessible components, look for any obvious equipment faults and check the filters. Intensive use of your AC unit during summertime may result in any number of problems. Here are some of the issues you could face.
Dirty Filters
The filter is the AC component responsible for eliminating debris and dust from the home’s air supply. During a scorching summer, a lot of air moves through it, and this can eventually lead to a blockage. If your air conditioner filters have trapped too much dust, your system operation will be inefficient.
Dirty filters also pose the following problems:
- Decreased indoor air quality
- Increased wear and tear
- Possible fire hazards
- Health risks
Most filters need replacement every few months. The frequency depends on your system’s requirements and your household’s characteristics. For example, cherished family pets do shed, and their dander will increase the need for filter replacement. Some filters are designed to be cleaned instead. A little soap and water will work for this.
Increased Energy Bills
High temperatures lead to your system working long hours, which means your utility bills will also increase. Up to a point, this is to be expected. If, however, your utility bill has been essentially stable for two months or so and it suddenly shoots up, your AC unit could be experiencing a serious issue. If you feel that the amount is unwarranted, reach out to our certified experts at HB Home Service Team, and they will inspect your system to see whether it has a mechanical problem that could be causing your energy prices to exceed expectations.
Refrigerant Leakage
Another major AC problem during the summer season is refrigerant leakage. Because the refrigerant helps rid your home of heat from the house, if it leaks, the cooling efficiency will suffer. The AC unit will not be able to keep your interior environment cool and comfortable. When there is a leak, simply topping off the fluid will not resolve the issue. To fix this ongoing problem, a technician will have to make a repair.
Frozen Evaporator Coil
The evaporator coil is the AC component that absorbs heat. To function correctly, it requires some warm air to flow across it. When there are issues with the airflow, the component can become excessively cold. If it ices over, the AC will not be able to perform its function.
AC Failing to Turn On
Whenever your unit fails to power on and cool your home, it leads to frustration. No one wants to be stuck in a sweltering environment. Obviously, you should first check your thermostat setting. If that’s in order, see if the electrical breaker has been tripped. The AC unit pulls a lot of power, and it’s possible for this to overload the circuit. If these simple steps fail to resolve the issue, you could have a serious electrical problem. That calls for a technician’s assistance.
Short Cycling
Short cycling occurs when your system runs frequently but only for brief intervals. This is hard on the equipment, and it’s an inefficient way to cool a space. You should address the issue as soon as possible since it can damage the compressor, which is expensive to fix. This can be caused by anything from a clogged filter or low refrigerant level to a system that is the wrong size for the space. Seek professional advice from HB Home Service Team.
Fan Problems
The AC system usually has two fans. One blows air over the evaporator coil to cool it. The other fan blows air over the condenser so it can release the heat. If one of these fans fails, your AC unit will not complete its job. The causes of fan problems include be worn belts, motor malfunctions, dirt and debris buildup, insufficient lubrication and obstructions.
Clogged Condensation Drain
As your AC system works, it creates condensation. This is not normally an issue because the fluid is removed through the condensation drain. However, that drain may get clogged at times, which leads to water backup and leakage. Besides potential damage the AC system, this could result in unwanted odor in your home. If the problem goes unnoticed, it could promote the growth of mold.
Loud Noises From the AC Unit
All AC systems will produce some noise. If the sounds are much louder than usual, however, there could be a serious problem with the system. A bent fan blade, for example can create a persistent thumping. If the AC unit produces screeching or squealing sounds, a motor bearing or belt could be malfunctioning. On the other hand, if the noise is banging or rattling, the blower or motor assembly could be the issue. Sometimes, a small animal or rodent gets stuck inside the system, causing an obstruction. Unusual sounds that are persistent and coming from your air conditioner could indicate an issue that needs expert attention.
Duct Leaks
Ductwork plays the role of carrying the cold air and dispersing it so that all your rooms can receive even cooling. However, if the ductwork has damaged areas, the cool air leaks. You then lose it to the walls. The AC unit will work harder to cool your space, leading to increased energy bills, while the home remains warmer than desired.
Dirty Condenser Coil
If you have too much dirt buildup on the AC condenser coil, it will not be effective at removing warm air from your house. It will result in low efficiency as your system tries very hard to ensure your home is comfortable. This leads to high electricity bills and shortened equipment lifespan. To avoid this problem, ensure that you regularly clean the condenser. This will prolong your system’s useful life and reduce the amounts you spend on repairs and utility bills. If you do not have the expertise to clean it yourself, contact our professionals.
Warm Air From the Vents
Imagine that you switched your AC on to produce cold air, but all it does is produce warm air. If your air conditioner is blowing out warm air, be sure to check whether the thermostat is correctly set. Other causes range from a refrigerant leak to a broken compressor. Be sure to contact your technician. If your AC is producing warm air, the problem probably calls for professional expertise to fix it.
Rely on the Experts
Baltimore homeowners can encounter a wide assortment of AC problems. However, if you schedule regular tune-ups with us, you can avoid most of the issues we’ve discussed here. At HB Home Service Team, we have NATE-certified technicians who are always ready to help you. Our goal is to meet your home comfort needs with excellent services. We offer a full range of heating, cooling and indoor air quality solutions, including repair, installation and maintenance. We also offer duct cleaning, plumbing and electrical services. Contact us today to discuss your concerns or schedule an appointment.
