Everything You Need To Know About Air Conditioning Repair | San Antonio, TX
Having a functioning air conditioner during summer in San Antonio, TX can be the difference between being comfortable and downright miserable. The sun is scorching, the humidity is high, and the temperatures can be oppressive. Most homeowners dread having their AC unit break in the middle of the hot Texas summer. However, even the most reliable Air Conditioner isn’t immune to breakdowns and malfunctions. The best thing you can do to avoid being caught off guard by an AC malfunction is to schedule regular air conditioning repair.
How Does Central Air Conditioning Work?
An AC unit comprises several components that work together to cool the air inside your house. As the warm air is drawn into the unit, it’s absorbed by a refrigerant in the evaporator coil. This refrigerant is then pumped to the condenser–a part of your AC unit outside your home. The condenser expels the heat from the refrigerant, which is then sent back to the evaporator coil. This process repeats continuously, keeping your home cool until you shut off the system. AC units also have a fan that helps circulate the cool air throughout your house.
Air conditioning repair is crucial when any of these components have malfunctioned, which should be done as soon as possible to prevent further damage to the system.
Why DIY Repair Is Not Recommended
Attempting DIY repairs could be risky for you and the AC unit. That’s because Air Conditioners consist of delicate electrical and mechanical components. One wrong adjustment could compromise your entire unit. You also risk electrocution, harmful chemicals, and severe injury if you don’t follow the safety protocols. Not to mention, DIY air conditioning repair may void the manufacturer’s warranty, leaving you to pay the cost of any repairs, replacements, or adjustments.
Signs You Need Air Conditioner Service
Here are the 7 most common signs that indicate you need to schedule a professional air conditioning repair service in San Antonio, TX:
1. Air conditioner blows warm air
Different variables could cause your Air Conditioner to blow warm air. However, some of the most common culprits include a malfunctioning compressor, low refrigerant levels, dirty air filters, dirty or blocked evaporator coils, or the thermostat. The latter can be fixed easily by switching the thermostat to cooling mode or changing the batteries if the unit is battery-operated. However, the other issues require professional air conditioning repair as they involve intricate system parts.
2. There is moisture around air conditioner
If you notice leaks around your unit, don’t assume! Air Conditioner leaks could be caused by something minor, such as clogged drains, a faulty condensate pump, or a more significant issue, like a refrigerant leak. Water leakages can quickly cause mold and mildew growth in your home, while refrigerant leak (Freon) is toxic and can cause health issues if not handled correctly. Irrespective of the leak source, you should contact an air conditioning repair professional to inspect and fix the problem.
3. Air conditioner makes unusual noises
A working Air Conditioning should run relatively quietly. However, if you hear any unusual noise(s) from your AC unit could signify that something is wrong with it and thus needs service. In most cases, the noise could result from:
- Loose parts: Loose parts or screws in the unit can cause rattling or banging sounds.
- Dirty air filter: A dirty air filter can cause restricted airflow, leading to strange noises.
- Refrigerant leaks: Hissing or bubbling sounds can indicate a refrigerant leak.
- Worn bearings: Squealing or grinding sounds can indicate worn bearings in the fan motor.
- Clogged drain: Water can build up and cause gurgling or dripping sounds if the drain line is clogged.
Contact an air conditioning repair expert as soon as possible to avoid further damage to your unit and higher repair costs.
4. Strange odors when AC is turned on
Your AC unit should not produce any odors when turned on. If it does occur, there is a huge problem. In this situation, a musty or stale smell may signify the presence of mold or mildew in the unit or ductwork, while a strong odor may indicate a burned-out wire. A professional should diagnose this issue immediately to prevent fire or health risks posed by mold and mildew.
5. Air conditioner runs constantly
Air Conditioners typically cycle on and off every 10 to 20 minutes, depending on the indoor temperature. If your system runs continuously, thermostat settings or an undersized Air Conditioner could be the problem. Or it could mean something more serious such as a compressor issue. An air conditioning repair expert can help you determine the root cause and provide a suitable solution.
6. Rising or high electric bill
It’s normal for your utility bills to vary from one month to another or rise significantly during the summer because the AC unit works extra hard to cool your house. However, if you experience an unusually high electric bill with no apparent explanation, it could signify Air Conditioner inefficiency. Air Conditioner inefficiency can be attributed to several factors, including:
- Dirty air filter
- Leaky ductwork
- Faulty wiring
- Faulty thermostat
- Low refrigerant levels
7. High humidity levels
It’s normal to experience sticky weather outdoors during the summer. When you get inside your house, however, you expect your AC unit to fulfill its promise of keeping the indoor air comfortable and dry. However, the AC unit needs repair if you still experience high humidity levels inside your house. There are several possible explanations for this problem:
- A malfunctioning fan motor
- Blocked or dirty condensate line
- Clogged filters
- Low refrigerant levels
- Undersized unit
Only an experienced AC repair technician can diagnose the problem accurately and resolve it. Professionals have the skills and expertise to identify the underlying issue with your air conditioner, repair it, and restore your unit to its optimal performance.
If you’re in San Antonio, TX, and need professional air conditioning repair services, call bluefrog Plumbing + Drain + HVAC of San Antonio today, and we’ll gladly be at your service!
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