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Top 11 Causes of Air Conditioner Problems and How to Prevent Them

Top 11 Causes of Air Conditioner Problems and How to Prevent Them
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If you are one of the unlucky people who find themselves in the market for a new central air conditioner, you may be wondering what caused your old unit to fail. Before calling an HVAC technician for A/C repair Leander, TX, you might as well want to check our list of the top eleven A/C problems, along with some tips on how to prevent them.

  1. Debris in the Unit

One of the most common reasons that debris can cause problems with your A/C unit is because it can block the airflow. When there is not enough airflow, the coils in the unit can’t efficiently transfer heat, which can lead to your A/C unit being less effective.

Additionally, it can also cause corrosion on the coils, which further reduces their efficiency. In some cases, debris can damage other parts of the air conditioning system, such as the compressor. All of these issues can lead to higher energy bills and a need for frequent repairs. 

Another reason that debris in your A/C unit can be problematic is that it can attract pests. Rodents and insects nest inside the unit. They can damage wiring and insulation, leading to shorts and fires.

To prevent these problems from giving you a further headache, you should regularly check the unit for any buildup of dirt, leaves, or other materials. Also, make sure that there is nothing blocking the vents around the unit.

  1. Dirty Coils 

Dirty coils can cause your A/C unit to break down. Over time, the dirt and dust accumulated on the coils will impede the unit’s ability to cool your home. It can cause the unit to work harder than necessary, which can lead to overheating and ultimately a breakdown.

To avoid this and any A/C repair Leander, TX that might poke a hole in your pocket, you should clean the coils of your Air Condition unit regularly. Do this by removing the unit’s front panel and using a brush or vacuum cleaner to remove all dirt and dust. You should also check for any obstructions in the airflow, such as leaves or other debris, and clear them away if necessary.

  1. Wiring Problems 

The wires in your A/C unit can become frayed or damaged as time goes by, which can cause a short circuit. A short circuit occurs when electricity flows through a conductor (such as metal wiring) in an unintended way, often because of a break or fault in the conductor. This can cause sparks, heat, and even fire.

If you’re experiencing problems with your A/C, it’s important to have a professional electrician take a look for A/C repair Leander, TX. Wiring problems can be dangerous and should not be fixed by amateurs.

  1. Water Leaks

While a small amount of condensation is normal for air conditioners, too much water can lead to a variety of problems, including decreased efficiency, shorts in the electrical system, and mold growth.

Water leaks can occur for several reasons, including clogged drains, faulty installation, or damage to the unit. Whatever the cause, it must be addressed quickly to avoid further damage to your unit.

If you think your A/C has a water leak, the first step is to turn off the power and contact a professional for help. They will be able to diagnose the problem and repair any damage that has been done.

  1. Improper Installation

Improper installation of an air conditioner can cause a variety of problems. One of the most common is that the system will not cool properly because the refrigerant levels are incorrect. It may also result in compressor failure, and other pricey A/C repairs Leander, TX.

Make sure to allow only a qualified technician to do the installation. They will make sure that all the tubing and electrical connections are properly made and that the system is calibrated for your home. If you do not have regular maintenance performed on your A/C, it can also lead to improper installation as well as other problems along the way.

  1. Poorly-Sealed Windows and Doors

Yes, even your windows and doors can cause problems for your air conditioner. If they are not properly sealed, cool air can escape from your home, causing your A/C unit to work overtime to compensate. This can lead to various problems, including decreased efficiency and increased wear and tear on the system.

So, always check your windows and doors for any cracks or gaps. If you find any, seal them with weather-stripping or caulk. You may also want to replace your old windows and doors with new ones that are better insulated.

  1. Ductwork Leaks

The most common reason for ductwork leaks is that the joints where the sections of duct meet are not properly sealed. When these leaks occur, conditioned air seeps out, and the available cooling capacity of your A/C system is reduced. This causes your A/C system to work harder than necessary, increasing energy costs and possible mechanical failure.

Leaks can also occur due to damage to the ductwork caused by pests, rodents, or even construction work. In some cases, leaks may be difficult to detect simply by looking at the ducts. If you think you may have a leak in your ductwork, it’s best to have a professional HVAC technician inspect your system.

  1. Fan Problems

When the fan fails, the compressor in the A/C unit can overheat and eventually burn out. A few things can cause a fan problem, but the two most common causes are a dirty or clogged filter and a bad motor.

As mentioned, a dirty or clogged filter will reduce airflow through the unit, which will cause the compressor to work harder and overheat. On the other hand, a bad motor will not be able to produce enough power to keep the fan running, which will also cause the compressor to overheat.

If your air conditioner is having problems and you suspect it may be because of a failed fan, there are a few things you can do. First, check the filter and clean or replace it if necessary. Next, check the fan blades to see if they are damaged or bent. If they are, you will need to replace them. If the problem persists, you may need to replace the motor or require help from a technician for the necessary A/C repair Leander, TX.

  1. Dirty Sinks and Toilets

You might not think that your sinks and toilets have anything to do with your air conditioner, but they actually can. If the traps in your sinks and toilets become dry, they can allow sewer gases to enter your home. These gases are not only foul-smelling, but they can also be toxic.

Additionally, these gases can cause your air conditioner to work harder than necessary, which leads to decreased efficiency and increased wear and tear. To prevent this, simply pour a cup of water into each sink and toilet once a week to keep the traps full.

  1. Clogged Gutters

Your gutters play an important role in protecting your home from water damage. When they become clogged with leaves and other debris, they can no longer do their job properly. This can lead to water leaks in your attic and around your foundation, which can cause a variety of problems for your air conditioner.

You may also experience increased humidity levels inside your home, making it more difficult for your cooling system to cool the air. It can lead to discomfort from excessive heat and humidity – even respiratory problems.

The formation of mold and other allergens is also possible with a clogged gutter. It causes serious health problems for you and your family.

All you need to do is clean your gutters regularly. You can do this yourself or hire a professional to do it for you. Either way, it’s important to keep them clear so that they can do their job properly.

  1. Poor Maintenance

Poor maintenance is another number one cause of air conditioning problems and usually leads to expensive A/C repair Leander, TX. When filters are not replaced, or the coils are not cleaned, dust and other debris build up and impede airflow. This causes the system to work harder than necessary, resulting in decreased efficiency and even system failure.

It’s important to keep your air conditioner properly maintained year-round in order to optimize performance and prevent expensive repairs down the road. A qualified technician can clean and replace filters, check electrical connections, lubricate moving parts, and much more. For maximum efficiency and peace of mind, be sure to schedule annual maintenance visits.

Let Covenant Air Conditioning & Heating Handle Your A/C Repair Leander, TX!

We understand that no one wants to deal with air conditioner problems. That’s why we’re here to help! Our team of qualified technicians is ready to provide you with the A/C repair Leander, TX you need to get your system to achieve its peak efficiency again in no time. We also offer preventative maintenance to keep your system in top shape year-round.

For more information or to schedule a repair service, make sure to drop us a call at (512) 318-2257!

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