Why Does An Air Conditioner Malfunction?

Summer is just around the corner, and with it comes warmer weather and longer days. As a result, your air conditioner will have to work much harder and run longer to maintain the perfect temperature within your home. And unfortunately, air conditioners tend to malfunction or break down during this period due to various factors. In this article, we will look at some of the common causes of an air conditioner breakdown and the best repair solutions for them.

Dirty HVAC Filter

A dirty filter is perhaps the most prevalent reason for HVAC system failures. Typically, HVAC filters last for about 30 days. However, given that the AC system runs longer cycles during the hot season, the filter may need to be checked more frequently and returned much earlier than the recommended 30 days.

If your AC system isn’t working correctly, in most cases, all that is usually needed is replacing the dirty filter with a clean one to restore optimal performance.

Thermostat Malfunction

The thermostat is responsible for regulating your HVAC system. To ensure that your thermostat is working correctly, start by checking the batteries and ensure that the thermostat is switched on and set to ‘cool’ mode.

If your AC unit still doesn’t work correctly after completing all these steps, you can reach out to our team at Furnace Repair Calgary, and we will help further troubleshoot the issue over the phone.

Issues with the Evaporator Coil

The evaporator coil is responsible for removing heat and humidity from the air that passes through the air filters, thus cooling the air that enters your home. The evaporator coil is located indoors, either inside the air handler or attached to the furnace of your HVAC system. An evaporator coil covered in dirt won’t properly absorb the heat and moisture, which means that your indoor atmosphere will be less than conducive.

If you suspect that your evaporator coil is dirty, have a technician come and check it.

Dirty AC Condenser Coils

Given that the condenser coils are outside your home, dirt and seasonal debris always find them. If the condenser coils become too dirty, it will lead to high utility bills.

Clean off the AC condenser coil using a water hose. If there is too much build-up of dirt, you need to call out an HVAC service technician who will clean it professionally.

Refrigerant Leaks

Refrigerant leaks are another common reason for AC breakdowns. A refrigerant leak leads to increased temperature and humidity levels, which cause your home to become uncomfortable. Fortunately, refrigerant leaks are easily detectable with a leak test.

If your AC unit isn’t cooling off your home as it should and you suspect that you have a refrigerant leak, you need to contact our office for a service call. Our technician will diagnose your system to determine whether a refrigerant leak has indeed occurred. If a refrigerant line requires repairs, contact Furnace Repair Calgary. The cost of repairs primarily depends on the leak’s location and the amount of lost refrigerant.

Clogged Drainage Line

Like the HVAC filter, the drainage line can become clogged due to dirt, dust, and lint build-up. Water will fill the drain pan and leak out when the drain becomes clogged. A drain clog can potentially damage your AC system and furnace. In addition, the leaking water can damage other objects around your system.

Depending on how the drain is connected or runs, you can unclog it. But if it is hard to reach or you don’t know how to go about it, consider reaching out to our office. We will also perform a check-up of your system to identify any other potential issues.

Faulty Capacitor

The capacitor powers the motors that drive fan and compressor motors. The start capacitor sends the initial jolt that starts up the motor. The run capacitor keeps the motor running by sending a series of jolts. If the capacitor goes wrong or is weak, your AC unit won’t work correctly or may not work at all.

Your best option is to call out a residential HVAC technician who will be able to determine whether the capacitor is wrong and if your cooling system needs a replacement.

Pitted or Burnt Out Contactor

The contactor supplies voltage to your fan and compressor motor. If the contactor is pitted or burnt, the fan and compressor motor won’t get the proper voltage to power up. Thus, your system won’t run correctly or at all.

If a pitted or burnt-out contactor is the root cause of your AC issue, a technician from Furnace Repair Calgary will diagnose the problem and offer an AC repair solution to get the system back up and running.

Maintenance Manages Common Causes Of An Air Conditioner Breakdown

Regular HVAC maintenance is crucial to ensure your HVAC system’s efficiency and service life. It also helps to prevent unexpected and premature AC breakdowns.

Our team of expert HVAC technicians provides quality, effective, and comprehensive AC solutions to all your AC problems. Call us today at (403) 775-6800 to schedule your service.