Posted on May 6th, 2023.

In the warmer seasons of the year, a badly functioning air conditioner can be a huge source of aggravation. Our air conditioners take a great deal of wear and tear year after year and tend to breakdown more often than other home appliances. Thankfully, it is possible for most minor AC repairs to be done yourself at home, but depending on the severity of the problem, it might be necessary to call an AC repair specialist.

Before contacting an AC repairman, it is best to have a basic understanding of the most common air conditioner issues and causes. It could save you time and money in the long run, as it can help you diagnose the specific issue and communicate it more accurately to the professional. Here is a list of the most typical air conditioner repairs and their causes:

1. Thermostat failure: The thermostat is responsible for regulating the temperature of your home. If it is not working correctly, it may be the cause of erratic settings that lead to lower-than-expected cooling and energy consumption. Faulty thermostats can be due to a variety of factors, including calibration settings, low battery power, and electrical wiring issues.

If you suspect that your thermostat is not working correctly, here are some possible steps you can take to troubleshoot the issue:

 

1. Check the calibration settings: Sometimes, the thermostat may be working correctly, but the calibration settings may be off. You can check the settings and adjust them as needed to ensure that the temperature readings are accurate.
2. Replace the batteries: If the thermostat is battery-powered, low battery power can cause it to malfunction. Try replacing the batteries and see if that resolves the issue.
3. Check the wiring: Faulty electrical wiring can also cause problems with the thermostat. If you're comfortable working with electrical wiring, you can check the connections and ensure that they are secure.
4. Refrigerant Leaks: Low levels of refrigerant in your air conditioner cause it to emit less cooling air than it should. Refrigerant leaks are usually caused by corroded or worn-out parts. If a refrigerant leak is detected, it is essential to contact an AC repair technician right away, as refrigerant leaks can be potentially dangerous.
5. Blower Motor and Fan Issues: The blower motor and fan are responsible for pushing air through the air conditioning system and out into the home. Problems with these components can cause a decrease in airflow, leading to inadequate cooling. Blower motor and fan issues are usually caused by loose wires, worn-out components, or the accumulation of dirt and debris.
6. Drainage System: The drainage system of an air conditioner is responsible for carrying away excess condensation. If the drain line becomes clogged or obstructed, it can cause leaks or back up condensation into the air. Common drainage system issues can be caused by poor installation, poor maintenance, or improper design.

If you encounter any of the above air conditioner issues, it is important to call a certified AC repair technician. DIY repairs may be possible in some cases, but complex repairs should be done by a professional to avoid further damage and more costly repairs down the line. Additionally, some AC repairs may be covered by warranty, so it pays to contact the manufacturer before taking any drastic measures. With a proficient AC repair team on the job, your air conditioner will be functioning like new in no time.

Proper Maintenance Helps a Lot

Below are some tips for maintaining your air conditioner and preventing breakdowns:

• Regularly clean or replace the air filter to ensure proper airflow and prevent dust and dirt buildup.
• Keep the outdoor unit free of debris, such as leaves, grass, and other outdoor elements that may obstruct airflow.
• Check the thermostat regularly to ensure it is working correctly and set to the desired temperature.
• Schedule regular maintenance with a certified AC repair technician to identify and fix any potential issues before they become major problems.

Why Air Conditioner Repairs Should Be Left to the Professionals

Having a faulty air conditioner in the summer can be a huge inconvenience. When the temperature rises, it's easy to think about fixing the problem yourself, especially when you've found a few simple “Do it Yourself” (DIY) repairs on the internet. However, it’s important to recognize the risks that come with DIY air conditioner repairs. They can be time-consuming and dangerous, while a professional technician can safely and efficiently do the job.

First, there's the safety risk involved when attempting DIY air conditioner repairs. Since air conditioners usually have their own power supply, the potential danger is higher than home repairs. Furthermore, the presence of refrigerant and other hazardous materials in the system means that if you don't know what you're doing, you run the risk of hurting yourself or even causing property damage. In some cases, servicing air conditioners without the proper licensing or insurance can result in fines.

DIY repairs can also be time-consuming without any guaranteed results. You may spend a lot of time and energy trying to figure out the problem before resorting to professional help. Even if you do manage to fix the problem, there’s a chance that you’ve installed something incorrectly, only to discover the issue is still present.

Having a professional technician service your air conditioner is the best option since they have the right equipment and skills to diagnose and repair the issue correctly. Professional technicians are also knowledgeable when it comes to the latest technology, and they can provide tips on how to improve your air conditioner’s performance. A reputable technician will also be able to give you an accurate estimate of the costs involved before beginning the repair process, so that you can plan your budget accordingly.

In addition, professionals are well-versed in the latest safety regulations, and in many cases, they can provide warranties for their work. This helps to ensure that if something were to go wrong after the repairs, you’d be covered.

At the end of the day, it’s important to recognize that air conditioner repairs can be complicated, and attempting to do them yourself can be risky. For efficient and cost-effective repairs, it’s best to leave them to the professionals and call a technician who is qualified to carry out the job.

If you're in need of excellent assistance with your heating and cooling needs, don't hesitate to contact Frank's Heating & Cooling. Our experienced team of experts are here to help you find the best solution for your home and provide excellent assistance. For more information, you can reach us at [email protected]. We look forward to working with you soon.