It’s hard to beat summertime fun, but it can also be difficult to beat that summer heat! As the weather continues to warm, it’s important to prepare your home for the change in season. Just like you’d clean and service your heater or furnace for fall, you’ll want to make sure your air conditioning is ready to keep you cool all summer long! HVAC systems will put in long hours on those hot, humid days when a cool glass of water and a fan just aren’t going to cut it. Before it gets too hot, you’ll want to have your HVAC inspected for these five common problems that could leave you without cold air relief this summer!
- Clogged Drain Lines – One of the most common causes of HVAC problems are clogged drain lines. Whether you have a large central unit or a small window unit, you’ll want to make sure it’s clean and clear- especially drain lines. Air conditioners work by not only cooling the air, but also removing humidity from the air. This moisture collects inside the machine and must be drained- otherwise you could damage your unit! These lines can become clogged- especially if your unit has missed out on regular maintenance. Thankfully, careful use of a wet-dry vacuum can often clear out the drain line and fix your problem without the need for disassembly or parts replacement. This maintenance can be done preemptively on a periodical basis, to make sure your unit remains in the best condition possible.
- Leaking Refrigerant – If you’ve ever owned an old car, you’ll know all about leaking refrigerant. Air conditioning systems use refrigerant to work their magic and keep you cool, but over time, seals and gaskets can wear out and cause the refrigerant to leak out. While a simple recharge may be enough to get your unit working again temporarily, it will take an expert’s analysis to determine the best course of action for your system- replacing any damaged components, overhauling worn parts, before finally refilling the refrigerant.
- Faulty Capacitor – Air conditioners use a lot of power, and often make use of a pair of capacitors to keep it functioning properly. Like any component, these capacitors can fail. If one of these burns out, the entire unit can malfunction. Regular servicing by a professional can ensure these continue to work properly.
- Thermostat Malfunctions – Sometimes the issue with your HVAC system isn’t with the actual unit itself, but rather than auxiliary system connected to it. Issues with the thermostat inside your home can often be the culprit responsible when your air conditioner is not working properly. Simply replacing the batteries in your thermostat regularly can solve many problems with the HVAC system. Ensure that any sensors that check for air temperature are properly located and not blocked: it’s hard for your system to get an accurate read on a room’s temperature if it’s located close to a heat-emitting object like a television or computer.
- Blown Fuse – There are many electrical problems that can impact your air conditioner, but the most common is a blown fuse. This is often caused by a blocked air filter or other obstruction that causes the system to overheat and work too hard. This will cause the fuse to blow. If you suspect a blown fuse, exercise caution while investigating. If you don’t feel comfortable, call a professional who can safely help you through the process or handle it for you.
When the dog days of summer strike, we need to have our a/c systems working their best. Make sure your system operates at its best by checking your system for these common problems before they create a larger issue. Stay cool!
