Many AC issues can be prevented by keeping up with air conditioning maintenance. Check that the thermostat is set correctly and that it’s not tripped. Also, be sure to open vents in unused rooms and that furniture, storage units or curtains aren’t blocking them.
Also, make a point of changing the air filter frequently. Burning or mildew odors should be a red flag.
When your air conditioner is running, it should produce cool air that blows through vents throughout your home. If you notice that the air flowing through the vents is weak, or no air at all is blowing, it could indicate a problem with your AC unit and should be addressed as soon as possible. Insufficient airflow can lead to reduced energy efficiency and even overheating, which could be dangerous for you and your family.
If your AC is set to cooling mode but you feel only warm air coming through the vents, the thermostat might be off or it could be clogged with dust. In this case, the thermostat should be checked and cleaned, and the air filter should be replaced. It’s also important to check the blower fan inside your air handler to ensure it’s not obstructed and that it’s moving properly. If it isn’t, a professional will have to inspect the unit and clean it.
Leaky ducts are another common cause of low airflow, and they can be difficult to identify since they often occur in hard-to-see areas such as behind walls or ceilings. HVAC technicians can use specialized equipment to find these leaks, which should be repaired as soon as possible to prevent further damage and poor airflow.
It’s also a good idea to make sure that all of the air vents in your home are open and not blocked by furniture or other objects, as this can reduce the air flow of your system. You should also check your vent covers for dust, which can get into the opening and reduce airflow.
The last issue that might affect the airflow of your AC system is animal infestation. Sometimes birds or other small animals will build nests or homes within the vents and air handler, which can restrict the flow of air. While a professional should look at your AC unit, you can remove any pests that are inside the vents and clean out any dirt or debris in the vents themselves. This will help to improve your airflow and make your system more efficient.
Strange Noises
Although you expect your air conditioning system to make noises as it runs, these sounds should not be disturbing or alarming. In most cases, these sounds will indicate a problem that needs to be addressed by an experienced AC repair professional.
A buzzing sound often indicates a loose or unbalanced component within your air conditioner system. This may be a fan blade or blower motor component, or it could be an internal issue, like a connecting rod or piston pin. It’s important to have this issue addressed by an experienced professional as continuing to run the system with a loose part will only worsen the problem and lead to more expensive repairs.
A quick clicking sound often occurs when the AC unit starts and finishes a cooling cycle, but if this sound is occurring regularly it could indicate a larger electrical problem. This could include a faulty thermostat or relay switch, a bad compressor capacitor, or even a refrigerant leak that needs to be repaired.
Rattling sounds usually come from loose screws, panels, or fan blades that need to be tightened or replaced. This type of sound typically also means that the ductwork has holes and needs to be repaired.
If you hear a high-pitched screeching or squealing sound, it’s a good idea to turn off your air conditioning system and call an HVAC professional. This sound could also mean that the fan belt in your unit is loose and needs to be replaced. This is not a job that should be attempted by the handy DIY homeowner, as replacing the fan belt can expose you to dangerous electrical risks.
The smell of rotten eggs can quickly signal a serious problem that requires immediate attention. This could be a sign that there is a natural or propane gas leak. These leaks can be extremely hazardous and require a trained professional to fix. Be sure to turn off the power to your gas unit, evacuate the home, and call emergency services. This type of emergency is best handled by a professional as it can be life-threatening for the occupants of the home.
Water Leaks
The heat transfer process that cools your air causes condensation on the evaporator coil. This moisture normally drips into a drain pan and out through a condensate line that leads outdoors. If the evaporator coil becomes frozen or dirty, the excess water won’t be able to escape. This can lead to a leaking AC unit and severe water damage over time.
A clogged or disconnected condensate drain line can also cause an AC leak. This problem may be caused by dirt, mold, or leaves in the line. Using a wet/dry vacuum to remove the debris and restore a clear path for the moisture will allow the system to work properly again.
Your drain pan can also become corroded over time. In this situation, you will need to replace the pan and seal any cracks in the drain line. An HVAC technician will be able to do this quickly and easily with the proper tools.
Another common issue is when the drain pipe becomes disconnected from the drain pan. This can happen because of improper installation, age-related problems, or an accident. A disconnected drain line can send water everywhere instead of leading outside, so it is important to fix the issue immediately.
Keeping up with routine maintenance is an excellent way to prevent these issues. Change your air filters regularly and schedule annual maintenance from a trusted HVAC company to keep your air conditioning working its best.
If you do notice a leaking AC unit, turn it off and contact an HVAC professional for immediate repairs. Leaking AC units that are not fixed can cause water damage in your home and result in costly repairs for you. The sooner you address the problem, the better off you will be. Then you can relax in a well-cooled home. If you need air conditioning repair, trust the experts at Diamond Blue. We are a top-rated AC repair and installation company based in Carrollton, but we service all of DFW. For more information, visit us online or call today to speak with an expert! Our team is standing by.
Clogged Condensate Drain
A clogged drain line is one of the most common causes of AC malfunction. Over time, dust, dirt, and other debris can collect inside the condensate drain line and prevent water from escaping. This can lead to water pooling around your AC unit, and it can also cause mold or mildew odors in the home. If you notice any signs of a clogged drain line, it is important to contact a qualified HVAC technician for a quick AC repair.
Depending on the severity of the clog, an HVAC technician may use a variety of tools to clear it. In most cases, the first step is to physically remove any materials that are blocking the drain line. Then, the HVAC tech may use a wet or dry vac to suction out the clog and any water that is trapped in it.
If the clog is too large for the vacuum to remove it, the HVAC technician may use an electric snake to break up and dislodge the clog. They will carefully locate the access point for the drain line, and they will unscrew and remove the cap while ensuring not to spill any water that is trapped inside the line. They will then insert the snake into the clog, turning it slowly and gently as they go to work through and break up any clogging material.
Once the clog is removed, they will replace the cap and rescrew the PVC pipe to restore power to your system. They will then check the drain line exit to ensure that water freely flows from it. If this is the case, the AC technician will have successfully fixed your clogged drain line.
To avoid future clogs, be sure to regularly vacuum the area around your air conditioner and keep it free from leaves, dirt, twigs, and other debris. You should also clean or replace your filter regularly and sign up for a professional annual maintenance service. This will help to keep your condensate drain line free from clogging and prevent the need for an expensive AC repair.