The simplest AC repair involves clearing up a clog or defrosting the evaporator coil. An HVAC technician can use a shop vac to dislodge whatever’s causing the problem and return the unit to working condition.
Timely air conditioning repair prevents energy waste and ensures optimum performance. It also enhances comfort by eliminating hot and cold spots and temperature fluctuations. Contact Air Conditioning Repair Orlando now!
If your air conditioning seems to turn on and shut off repeatedly, it’s called short cycling. This problem puts unnecessary stress on your system’s components, reduces energy efficiency, and drives up your utility bills. It can also lead to a much shorter lifespan for your AC unit. Fortunately, the problem is easy to diagnose and repair.
Sometimes, the issue is as simple as replacing an air filter. Over time, air filters can become clogged with dirt and dust. This impedes the flow of air through the system, which causes the compressor to overheat and shut off before completing its cycle. It’s important to check and change your air filter frequently.
Another common cause of short cycling is a frozen evaporator coil. When this happens, you need to turn off your system and allow it to thaw before turning it back on. A professional can determine if your coils are frozen and, if so, can help you get them back to working condition.
A faulty thermostat is a frequent cause of short cycling, too. If it’s in direct sunlight or close to a heat-generating appliance, it may register the room temperature as cooler than it is, signaling your AC to shut off before it’s had time to cool your house. It’s also possible your thermostat has simply stopped working altogether. An HVAC expert can help you replace your thermostat.
Your compressor motor may be starting to wear out, which can also cause short cycling. The constant start-and-stop operation places additional stress on the system’s components, which can speed up the rate at which they wear out. In many cases, it makes more sense to replace the compressor than to keep repairing an older model.
Finally, your ductwork might be leaking. This can make the compressor work harder to maintain proper temperatures, which can cause it to overheat and shut off prematurely. A HVAC technician can locate and seal any leaks in your ductwork to prevent this issue.
Smells from the Vents
While the crisp air flowing from your AC vents provides a refreshing summertime oasis, funky smells coming from them indicate various problems lurking beneath the surface. Each odor typically indicates a specific issue and requires the attention of a professional for resolution. Determining which odors are present helps you to work toward a solution more efficiently.
A musty odor emanating from the vents may indicate that mold or mildew are developing inside the system. Moisture accumulation in drain pans, drip lines or evaporator coils is the primary source of these odors, as it encourages fungus and other growths. The best course of action is to turn off the AC and call for a technician.
If the odor of burning cigarettes is wafting from your vents, it’s almost certainly the result of someone smoking in the home or nearby. Cigarette smoke residue builds up in the evaporator coil and is circulated around the house when the AC system runs. If a burning smell is present, you should turn off the unit and contact a HVAC technician immediately to prevent potential fire damage to your equipment.
An unpleasant rotten egg smell may mean that an animal has died in the ductwork or around the air conditioning unit itself. Small animals and birds sometimes make their way into air ducts for shelter during winter, where they can die. This causes an unpleasant rotten egg odor that is circulated throughout the home when the air conditioner turns on. A professional will usually need to remove the dead animal and seal the ducts.
The smell of raw sewage can also come from your air vents, especially when the AC is on. This usually means a backed-up sewer line or ruptured sewer vent pipe is close enough to your vents to allow the smell to drift into your ductwork and be dispersed throughout your home. This is a serious problem that requires the immediate attention of a plumber or professional HVAC technician.
A strong vinegar odor can also come from your vents. This usually means that your evaporator coil is in need of cleaning, and it can be accomplished by having a technician clean the coil and replace the filter.
Dirty Air Filters
Air filters aren’t just meant to protect the internal components of your HVAC system. They’re also responsible for filtering out dust, germs, pet dander, and other airborne debris. If your air filter becomes clogged, it will no longer be able to do its job properly. Instead, the clogged filter will allow all of those contaminates to be blown back into your home.
A dirty air filter can lead to a number of cooling problems. It can cause the evaporator coil to freeze, which will further hamper your system’s ability to cool your house effectively. It can also restrict airflow, causing your system to work harder to keep you comfortable. This extra strain can lead to premature wear and tear, reducing your system lifespan.
In addition, a clogged air filter will cause your system to overheat. It’s important to change your air filter regularly if you want to avoid overheating and other air conditioning repair issues.
If you check your air filter and it’s visible clogged with dirt, you should replace it right away. This simple, inexpensive task will save you from major cooling repairs down the road.
Another sign it’s time to change your air filter is when you notice a buildup of visible dust around the vents. This is a sure sign that the filter has stopped functioning effectively and is contributing to increased dust levels in your living spaces. This dust can then become a health hazard for your family members who suffer from allergies or respiratory conditions.
It is recommended that you change your air filter every month. This is a quick, easy and affordable maintenance task that can be easily accomplished in just five minutes. If you have pets or many people living in your home, you may need to change the filter more frequently.
Older Systems
Generally, HVAC systems have a lifespan of 10-15 years. After that point, they start to break down and require more frequent repairs than a newer system would. This is normal, and it’s important to have a maintenance plan in place so that your HVAC can last as long as possible.
However, if you’re finding yourself scheduling repair services frequently, it may be time to consider upgrading your HVAC system to something more advanced. Each time you make a repair, it’s money that could be better spent on a newer unit that will pay for itself over the lifespan of the system.
Another sign that your HVAC system is nearing the end of its life is if you notice an increase in humidity. Humidity issues can be a result of many factors, such as dirty evaporator coils or thermostat problems. However, it can also be a sign that your AC is too old and no longer capable of dehumidifying the air in your home.
Finally, an older HVAC system can become prone to leaks. Leaks are a big problem because they allow for the loss of refrigerant. This causes the system to work harder, which results in higher cooling bills.
If you find that your HVAC is leaking, it’s crucial to have the system cleaned. This will prevent the buildup of dust, mold, and other debris that can cause respiratory issues. In addition, having the ductwork cleaned will help with circulating clean air throughout your home.
Older systems can suffer from several other issues that require professional air conditioning repair. If you’re experiencing a strange noise, smells, or varying temperatures in your home, it’s important to have the system inspected by a professional. A professional service technician can recommend the right solution to restore your comfort and lower your energy costs.