When you’re working hard or relaxing in the sun, you want your AC to cool your home. But what if it stops working or seems to be working inefficiently?
If this happens, there may be many reasons for it. The following list includes common AC Repair Round Rock issues that could require professional help:
When an AC unit is unlevel, it causes vibrations that can cause significant damage to the equipment. It also interferes with the flow of refrigerant, leading to problems such as kinking or leaks. In addition, uneven vibration can cause the tubing connections to loosen or disconnect, which is costly to repair and can shorten the life of the system.
Over time, even the best-installed AC units can become unlevel. Environmental factors, such as soil movement and freeze-thaw cycles, can gradually shift the concrete pad underneath the unit, causing it to tilt.
In addition to reducing cooling efficiency, an unlevel AC unit can damage the compressor and fan motors. This is because the motors rely on consistent oil distribution to function, and an uneven unit can lead to inconsistent lubrication, which reduces their lifespan.
An unleveled AC unit can also interfere with water drainage, resulting in moisture buildup that damages the coils and creates a breeding ground for microbial growth. In extreme cases, it can also cause the unit to leak, further adding to cooling costs and possibly requiring expensive repairs.
Fortunately, there are several ways to level an AC unit, but it is important to contact a professional for the best results. One method involves injecting a polyurethane foam under the pad, which expands to fill voids and lift the pad back into a level position. This is a quick and effective option that doesn’t require extensive excavation or other major disruptions, and it provides a durable solution that will last for years. Another option is to use a simple carpenter’s bubble level, available at most big box stores. This tool is easy to use and affordable, but it can be difficult to determine whether the unit is actually level by looking at it from just one angle.
Thermostat Issues
The thermostat is the control center for your home’s heating and cooling system. As such, it’s incredibly important that your thermostat is functioning properly. When it’s not, it can cause all sorts of issues with your HVAC system. However, there are a number of simple troubleshooting solutions you can try before calling in an AC repair technician.
First, make sure your thermostat is powered on. If it’s battery-operated, the first thing you should do is replace the batteries. Low batteries can prevent the thermostat from turning on, causing it to display a blank screen. If your thermostat is connected to your home’s electrical system, you should also check the circuit breaker and fuse box. A tripped or blown fuse can cut power to the thermostat and cause it to display a blank screen. If the problem persists, you should turn off the power to your thermostat at the breaker box and examine the wiring for signs of corrosion or loose connections.
Another common issue is a thermostat that constantly short cycles. This can be caused by a number of things, including incorrect positioning of the thermostat. If the thermostat is located near drafts, in direct sunlight, close to windows or doors, or near stoves or refrigerators, it can misread the temperature and cause your system to run more than it should. This can be resolved by relocating the thermostat or by recalibrating it.
You can also use a vacuum cleaner to clean out the inside of your thermostat and remove any dust or dirt that may be clogging the sensor. You can also take off the thermostat cover and carefully inspect the wiring for any signs of corrosion or loose connections. If the wiring is damaged, it will need to be replaced or repaired.
Capacitor Damage
Capacitors store and release electricity to help start your AC’s compressor and ensure it has the power it needs to keep running. Over time, these small electrical components will begin to wear out. This can be due to a variety of things, including overheating, power surges, lightning strikes, and extreme outdoor temperatures. In order to avoid costly AC repair bills down the road, you should monitor for signs that your capacitor is going bad.
One of the most common symptoms is when your air conditioner starts blowing warm air instead of cold. You should first check your thermostat to see if it’s been set properly, but if you continue to experience problems you might need to replace the capacitor. Replacing a capacitor is an uncomplicated process that takes less than an hour for a professional to complete.
Another sign that your capacitor is going bad is a noticeable increase in your energy bill. This is because a capacitor that is working hard to turn on during the cooling cycle will use up more energy than it should. This will lead to higher energy bills over time if left unchecked.
While you can perform a number of DIY air conditioning repair procedures, it’s always best to let a professional take care of your HVAC system. Grove Heating & Cooling will be able to inspect your air conditioner and determine if your capacitor is the culprit. We will then replace your air conditioner capacitor and return your system to full functionality. To learn more about our services and to schedule an appointment, contact us today. Our team of skilled professionals will be happy to assist you!
Contactor Issues
The contactor is one of the most important components of your AC system. It connects and breaks the power supply lines running to different parts of the appliance. When the thermostat signals that your home requires cooling, the contactor closes to let electricity flow to the compressor. It also cuts the power when the unit shuts off to prevent it from starting up again. A malfunctioning contactor can lead to higher energy consumption and electricity bills. It can also damage the compressor by continually cycling on and off.
Some of the most common signs that your contactor is wearing out are click noises and visible signs of arcing or burning. You may also notice that the contacts are not touching correctly when they are supposed to be closed. This is a sign of pitting and partial melting at the contact points, which means that the contactor cannot conduct electricity.
A faulty contactor will not allow the thermostat to signal that your home needs to be cooled. If you are experiencing any of these problems, it is recommended that you call a professional technician to inspect your AC system. An experienced HVAC technician will be able to identify the problem and fix it before it becomes worse.
Before you begin working on any electrical components, make sure that you turn off the power to your AC system at both the thermostat and the breaker. Once the power is off, unscrew the contactor on the side of your condenser and remove the wires connected to it. You can now use a multimeter to test the contactor’s function. Set the multimeter to the OL mode and connect it to the volt terminals on both sides of the contactor. If the contactor is functioning properly, it will provide you with a reading between 5 and 20. If the reading is lower or you get no reading at all, it is time to replace the contactor.
Breaker Issues
The circuit breaker is designed to shut off electricity when it senses an overload, protecting appliances from damage and fire hazards. When the breaker keeps switching off, it means that the air conditioning is using more power than the breaker can manage and is at risk of damaging your equipment or starting a fire. Instead of continually flipping the breaker back on, you need to address the underlying issue.
Breaker issues can be caused by faulty components or damaged wiring within the AC unit. Problems with the capacitor, relay, or contactor can interrupt the normal flow of electricity, causing the breaker to trip as a protective measure. This is why it’s important to have a professional inspect and repair these components when needed.
A clogged air filter can also cause the breaker to trip as it restricts airflow through the system, forcing the compressor and fan motor to work harder to pull in air. This can overheat the wires and lead to a short, which is why it’s important to change your air filter monthly and have your AC professionally cleaned every other year.
Another common reason for a breaker trip is an evaporator coil that has frozen over. When warm air passes over the cold evaporator coils, moisture in the air condenses and creates ice on the coil surface. This causes the AC to overwork to compensate, resulting in the breaker tripping to prevent an electrical overload.
Other reasons for a breaker to trip include loose wiring or an old, worn-out breaker that no longer performs properly. A breaker can easily be overloaded by multiple sources of power, so it’s important to have it replaced or repaired as soon as possible to avoid overcurrent and potential fire hazards.