When your AC system breaks down, it’s time to call for a repair. But before you pick up the phone, check to see if there’s a quick fix that can save you money.
Air filter replacement is a quick and easy fix that improves airflow. Cleaning the coils can also boost efficiency. And replacing the capacitors minimizes voltage fluctuations that can damage motors. Contact Ausco Air Heating & Air Conditioning for professional help.
The air filter is a vital piece of your HVAC system. It is the first line of defense against dust, pet dander, pollens, and other air pollutants that can aggravate respiratory issues and allergies in your family. However, if you aren’t changing it regularly (about once every month), it can become clogged, and it will lose its effectiveness.
A clogged filter restricts the flow of air, forcing your AC system to work harder to push fresh air through the system. Eventually, this extra strain can cause mechanical problems and shorten your unit’s lifespan.
One of the most common signs that your air filter needs to be replaced is a noticeable drop in your home’s temperature. Although a little variation in temperatures between rooms is normal, major differences are a sign that your filter is clogged and preventing proper airflow through the system.
Aside from less cooling, a clogged filter can also lead to poor indoor air quality. Because your AC system has to work so hard to push air through a dirty filter, it can suck up contaminants and spread them throughout the house. These pollutants can exacerbate existing health issues and contribute to the development of new ones.
Depending on the level of clog, a dirty filter can also trigger your system to overheat. In this case, you’ll need a professional ac repair service to fix the problem and prevent further damage to your unit.
If you’re not sure how often to change your air filter, set a reminder on your phone or in your calendar. It’s an easy way to make sure you don’t forget this crucial task. By following this simple maintenance schedule, you can help reduce energy usage and avoid expensive ac repairs in the future. If you need a professional ac repair, contact Jerry Kelly Heating, Air Conditioning, Plumbing & Electrical in St. Charles, Missouri. We provide a wide range of residential and commercial services, including duct cleaning, installation, and repair. Call us today to learn more about our services or to request an estimate. Our local technicians are happy to help!
Dirty Coils
The air conditioner’s evaporator and condenser coils perform a vital service in transferring heat from indoors to outdoors. They also ensure that the refrigerant flowing between them properly cools indoor air. When these critical components become dirty, however, they affect cooling performance and lead to expensive problems.
The best way to prevent dirty coils is to perform regular cleaning tasks. Using a soft-bristle brush or specialized coil cleaner to remove dirt and debris can prevent them from building up and restricting air passages. A professional technician can perform this task during a standard maintenance visit.
Dirty AC coils increase energy consumption and worsen minor HVAC issues. They also impose unnecessary strain on the compressor and fan motors, driving up operating costs and shortening equipment lifespans.
Coil maintenance is a critical part of any HVAC system. It is especially important during long stretches of Florida summer, when high humidity and heat can put a serious burden on the AC. A clean AC system not only delivers comfort at a reduced cost, but it also helps protect the equipment and extends its lifespan.
A dirty evaporator coil is particularly problematic. It can restrict airflow to the blower, leading to cooling failure and reduced indoor comfort. In addition, it can cause a build-up of odors in the home, making it smell musty or unpleasant.
It is important to address a dirty coil as soon as you notice signs of an issue. If you see a steady rise in utility bills, or if the AC is running but not delivering cold air, it is time to have the coils cleaned.
Dirty coils are a sign of poor system performance, but they can be difficult to spot without a thorough diagnostic. A professional can inspect the system, clean the coils, and identify any other underlying issues. They can also test the refrigerant charge, since proper charge goes hand in hand with coil cleanliness. When you schedule a maintenance appointment with a skilled, licensed technician, you can rest assured that your AC will be ready for the peak heating season.
Failing Fan Motors
The fan motor is an important component in the AC system, helping to keep the condenser unit cool and distributing air throughout your home. Over time, the motor can experience several problems, including strange noises or inconsistent airflow. By recognizing the early warning signs of a troubled fan motor and addressing them promptly, homeowners can help prevent serious issues that require expensive repair.
Strange Noises
Strange sounds coming from your outdoor AC unit may indicate a problem with the fan motor or other internal parts of the system. Often, these noises begin subtly and escalate into louder disruptions that require immediate attention. If you notice these sounds, be sure to call a technician right away to schedule an AC repair visit.
A grinding sound indicates loose bearings within the fan motor. This can cause the motor to overheat, leading to short circuits and eventual failure. Other symptoms of a failing fan motor include frequent breaker trips, bent or damaged blades, and an inability to turn on the compressor.
If the fan motor doesn’t turn on when you turn on your AC, there could be a problem with the capacitor or start windings. The capacitor is essentially a large battery that provides the extra power and torque needed for the fan motor to start up. Without it, the motor will not turn on and the blower wheel, fan belt, and other components won’t operate.
Failing fan motors can also produce high-frequency squeals and bangs as the shaft rotates against worn bearing surfaces. These noises amplify as the speed of rotation increases, making them difficult to identify and address at lower speeds.
The best way to extend the life of your fan motor is to keep it clean and lubricated, which can help avoid premature failure. Consistent maintenance and routine inspections can help ensure that your motor stays in top condition, cooling your home efficiently with minimal energy use.
A failing fan motor can lead to higher energy bills and ineffective airflow. By taking the time to recognize the early warning signs of a troubled motor and calling our technicians immediately, you can help keep your home comfortable all summer long.
Failing Capacitors
If your AC keeps tripping its breaker, or the capacitor fails, it could be a sign of a serious problem that needs immediate repair. Capacitors provide the initial energy boost to start the compressor and fan motor, and then keep them running at a consistent pace. If they fail, it can cause problems with cooling performance and may prevent the system from turning on at all.
You might notice a humming or buzzing sound when the capacitor is failing. This is because the fan motor is trying to start but not getting enough power from the capacitor. This can also lead to poor airflow and a weaker cooling effect.
A failing capacitor can also cause the system to cycle on and off frequently, which can strain the unit and lead to other issues. It can even cause your AC to leak refrigerant, which can be dangerous and should only be handled by an experienced professional.
Failing capacitors are sensitive to heat and can overheat if left unattended for too long. This is especially true of capacitors that are located in the outdoor portion of your AC unit, where they are constantly exposed to sunlight all day. This can damage the dielectric materials inside the capacitor and shorten its lifespan.
With proper care and ideal conditions, most capacitors can last between 8 to 20 years. However, if your AC is located in an area with hot summers and cold winters, they might need replacement closer to the 10-year mark.
The good news is that replacing a failed capacitor is fairly easy for a licensed HVAC technician. They will open the access panel to the capacitor and drain it before installing a new one. This is a relatively simple process that shouldn’t take more than an hour, and will ensure your AC runs smoothly once again.