What to Do When Your AC Fails to Cool?

Nothing could be worse than a malfunctioning AC, especially during summers.

When the AC stops working, there could be multiple reasons causing it.

Sometimes the underlying problem is a blown fuse or a tripped circuit breaker, but other times it can be a cause for alarm.

That’s why it is essential to understand the reason causing the error in the first place and then take various measures to fix it.

This article will discuss things that an AC maintenance service carries out to make the most of the device even during the prickly hot weather.

Visually Inspect Various Components

First things first; make sure power to your air conditioner is turned off. You can find a ‘disconnect switch’ on the exterior of your home for the compressor and fan assembly. Or, you may need to cut power at your circuit break panel.

Next, take off the access panel on the outdoor condensing unit.

Take a look for potential issues such as burned out or worn wires, melted insulation on your wires, or loose connections. Sometimes, animals can even get in and damage necessary wiring!

If you see any serious issues, err on the side of caution and call on local heating and cooling expert.

Clean the Dusty Filter

The most prevalent cause of an underperforming AC is a dirty or clogged filter.

Suppose the device’s filter is cloudy or choked with debris.

In that case, it might cause myriad issues, such as interference with the thermostat, freezing of the evaporator ring, dirty or dusty evaporator coils, that are inhibiting the path of cool air from the system.

Since debris also blocks the passage for chilly and hot air to pass through inside the tubes, it is crucial to cleanse it frequently.

A frequent and thorough AC maintenance service helps increase the device’s longevity.

Adjust Thermostat Settings

Ideally, the thermostat that controls your air conditioner operation should display an accurate temperature or one that’s only a degree off – at most.

Sometimes the AC fails to freeze and bobbles out warm air when its thermostat settings are incorrect. In such a condition, one must adjust these settings to auto.

It will help keep a fan operating when the air is freezing.

It is desirable to continually adjust the thermostat settings on auto rather than ON as it is a principal reason causing an AC to malfunction now and then.

Another step you can take in regular maintenance is to change the batteries if your thermostat is showing either an inaccurate display or not triggering the desired response when you test it to run a cycle.

Wash the Outdoor Units

old outdoor compressor unit

Dirty exterior units also hinder the performance of an Air Conditioner. It includes a condenser that condenses the hot air into chilly air.

If this device is not performing smoothly or perfectly because of clogging, it is essential to scrub it immediately.

A jammed condenser hinders the appropriate chilling of the AC system and is one of the most typical grounds causing the problem.

Clean the device for junk and dust to allow the hot and chilly air to pass through.

Additionally, one must keep the evaporator (indoor unit) clean as it performs a critical job.

This device soaks warmth from the circling air and transmits it to the exterior unit. These two devices operate simultaneously to provide the users with ultimate comfort.

Inspect the Condenser Unit and Fan

It goes without saying you should make sure your air conditioner’s power is turned off before you perform this maintenance task (see above tips for cutting power adequately). You should also use a multi-meter to check for any current running just in case.

Begin by checking the fan that sits inside your outside A/C box. Specifically, look for blades that are visibly cracked or showing signs of extreme rust or general wear.

Cracked, excessively worn, or damaged blades should be replaced immediately.

If you have an older air conditioner unit, you may need to regularly oil the fan motor bearings – you’ll hear a high pitched squeal to tell you this is needed!

Fix the Compressor & Motor

If the motor is not working correctly, the exterior unit will fail to discharge warmth and impede the system’s performance.

Besides, a vandalized compressor may also give a headache as it is responsible for addressing refrigerant flow between the indoor and outdoor units.

And if the flow hinders, the condenser will fail to chill the air properly.

To resolve these issues, look for quality AC maintenance service from experts.

Here are some grounds causing an Air Conditioner to underperform or breakdown frequently:

  • To ensure optimal performance and longevity of an AC, it is vital to avail of professional services. It includes checking refrigerant leaks, compressor damage, and condenser coil faults.
  • Improper placement of the indoor and outdoor units of a split AC while disregarding the room size.
  • Dirt and debris collecting on the filter and coils restrict the airflow and trap heat.
  • Improper heat insulation, exposure to direct sunlight, and excessively ventilated rooms can also hamper the device’s performance.

Parting Thoughts

Hopefully, this blog helps everyone learn about the various reasons behind a malfunctioning AC and what they can do to fix it.

However, the wisest thing anyone can do to keep the device working smoothly during the scorching summer heat is to conduct regular maintenance.

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