In the hot and humid climate we have in Tampa, FL, a properly functioning AC unit is a must have. We all appreciate our cool, comfortable spaces where we can escape the heat.
Nothing is more frustrating than having your air conditioner fail on the hottest day of the year. Or when you have a house full of out-of-town guests. Unfortunately, it seems air conditioners tend to break down at the most inopportune times. However, calling in an AC repair technician to perform routine maintenance at the start of the season can help you avoid this unpleasant situation.
Common Issues with AC Units
Knowing the most common causes of your AC Unit not working can help you feel safer when it comes to getting your air conditioner repaired. From simple fixes, such as charging the refrigerant, to more complex issues, such as a damaged capacitor in the ac, calling in a pro may be your best bet.
AC refrigerant is a substance that comes in liquid or gaseous form and is used to remove heat from your home and replace it with cool air. If there is insufficient refrigerant in the system or leaks, your air conditioner will be unable to cool the air entering your home.
Costs of cooling were unexpectedly higher. Without the optimum amount of refrigerant, your system will work harder to maintain a comfortable temperature in your house.
You can check the leak of refrigerant if ventilation air is not pleasant to the smell. Without refrigerant, the HVAC system may be unable to cool. You may hear the unit running or feel the air being distributed throughout the house, but it is unlikely to be cool enough to make your living area feel cozy.
A sudden increase in indoor humidity is also a symptom. Without refrigerant, the room’s temperature rises, and the increase in humidity is not far behind. Suppose outdoor units provide an unusual sound. If the device makes a sound like it is blowing air out or hissing, it is most likely a leak inside the system. Additionally, it is responsible for producing the cool air necessary to achieve the desired temperature. Without it, the HVAC unit will be unable to push out as much air.
The AC Unit repair required to address a refrigerant leak could include repairing or replacing the line through which the leak occurred, as well as refilling the unit. Recharging the home’s air conditioner is the procedure by which a technician adds refrigerant to the device and, if necessary, pressurizes the chemical to ensure that it functions well within the AC. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, only certified professionals can recharge the HVAC unit in residence.
Drainage issues with HVAC systems
Condensation is produced during the cooling process of an AC Unit. This often drains out from the machine and enables it to operate normally. However, if a blockage develops in the condensate or drip pan drain pipes, water may flow back into the air conditioner if the outside environment is humid.
Excess condensation can raise indoor humidity levels, reducing the air conditioner’s performance. In addition, it may result in harm to the AC Unit’s components. Three possible drain problems should be identified during the AC troubleshooting process.
- Leaks or spills. If algae, mold, or other particles clog the pipe or trap, the condensate pan will fill water and eventually overflow. If left unattended, water damage can occur to your floors, drywall, and HVAC system.
- Mold growth. A mildew odor or moisture may indicate that mold is forming in the drain tube. Keeping the condensate drain clean is an intelligent approach to avoid poor indoor air quality caused by mold spores.
- Trap drain. The trap is connected to the condensate drain. It enables water to drain from the system. However, the trap may become clogged or perhaps become completely dry. Mildew, mold, and fungus can grow if water does not flow properly, resulting in sewage odors leaking into your home.
If your air conditioner stops working, it could be that the overflow component was activated in response to the float switches signaling the unit to shut down. Again, a trained HVAC expert must perform AC repair.
The compressor fan of the AC unit is broken
Your air conditioner’s exterior unit houses components such as the fan, compressor, and condenser coils. These components remove heat from the air and the movement of heat away from your home, resulting in a calm indoor atmosphere.
If your outdoor air conditioner is not running effectively, the process of heat transfer is harmed. For example, a defective fan might cause the system’s compressor to overheat, activating the air conditioner’s safety measures and shutting it down.
Inadequate hot air output from the outside unit. The compressor’s purpose is to dissipate heat energy and bring cool air within. If the fan within your outdoor unit is exchanging cool or cool air, your compressor may require repair. In addition, the unit makes unusual noises. After the air conditioner is turned on, squealing, slamming, or clicking noises from the outside unit may indicate an electrical problem with the compressor.
The inside temperature is not decreasing. Even if the compressor fails, the home’s fan may continue to operate normally. If the outdoor unit does not perform typically, contact a professional to discuss possible repair options.
The circuit breaker is constantly tripped. If the compressor requires excessive power to operate, it may overheat and trip the circuit breakers. The breaker may trip as a warning that a compressor is about to fail. There are numerous additional ways in which an unsound compressor can express itself, but these are the most frequently observed. Repairing or replacing the compressor is not a simple undertaking for the inexperienced. Employ a certified residential air conditioning repair expert to diagnose and remedy the issue. Velocity Air Conditioning is the best air conditioning repair service in Tampa Bay. Contact them now as they are available 24/7.
The filter for the AC unit is clogged
A good air filter for your air conditioner is critical for maintaining clean, pollutant-free airflow. A clogged air filter can obstruct airflow, reducing the efficiency of the air conditioning system. Filters that are clogged also impair your system’s ability to chill the air adequately.
If you discover that your air conditioner’s flow has become stale or clogged, inspect and clean the air filter. Most likely, the air filter is clogged and obstructing airflow. In addition, pet owners must be vigilant about air filters, as they must be replaced frequently owing to fur.
Replace your filter every two weeks and your air filters every two months during peak periods when the air conditioner has used the bulk of the time. Additionally, intelligent AC controllers will assist you in monitoring the filter’s status. They will alert you when it is time to replace the air filter.
The compressor has been damaged
The compressor is a critical AC component that assists refrigerants in performing heat exchange and regulating the AC pressure. Filled with debris, fluctuations in refrigerant levels, and improper lubrication can all contribute to the compressor failing in an air conditioner.
If there is insufficient refrigerant, the compressor will overheat and eventually fail to operate. However, if the additional refrigerant is required, the additional refrigerant may result in a rise in pressure inside the AC unit, which may cause the device to fail.
If you discover that your HVAC system is not operating correctly or that the airflow from the HVAC system is inadequate, the compressor is most likely faulty. Contact a local air conditioning repair firm to remedy this typical air conditioning issue. If the damage is substantial, it is preferable to replace the compressor rather than repair the AC.
Evaporator Coil Froze Up
If your unit is not operating correctly, it could be due to a frozen evaporator coil. This is a common problem with household air conditioners. This occurs when your unit does not obtain sufficient airflow to operate correctly due to junk accumulation.
Dirt buildup on the coils obstructs the airflow, preventing warm air from reaching the refrigerant. The refrigerant is too cold in this case, and any moisture on the coils freezes.
With time, the coil accumulates ice, preventing the refrigerant inside the tube from absorbing any latent heat. This AC issue impairs the passage of cool air throughout the house.
To ascertain the cause of the problem, evaluate the affected region first. After that, allow the evaporator coil to melt (defrost). This can be performed by avoiding use for a while. It is critical to turn off the power first. Generally, it takes 24 hours for the evaporator coil to thaw entirely. Hairdryers can be used to expedite the process. However, exercise caution to prevent overheating your coil. If there is some ice, be sure that your unit is functioning in fan mode, as it is the fan that melts away the frost and does not cause the machine to shut down.
Failure of the Capacitor
When your air conditioner goes off and on abruptly, accompanied by a click sound, this suggests a capacitor problem. A capacitor is a critical component of your ac unit since it provides the first boost necessary for the motor to start running.
When your air conditioner is forced to operate in the intense heat of summer, it can cause the capacitor to overheat. Additionally, power fluctuations and frequent thermostat setting adjustments might result in capacitor deterioration.
Make an appointment with a professional to get your capacitor inspected by a specialist. It is not safe to attempt to repair or replace it on your own due to the risk of electric shock.
Thermostat Malfunctioning
The most frequent issue with air conditioners in homes is that the thermostat has stopped working. If, for instance, your air conditioner has stopped running and the room appears to be warmer than usual, the thermostat may be defective and to blame.
It is possible to have a severe problem caused by corrosion and dust buildup or simply a case with dead batteries. The looseness of the screws or wires within the thermostat could also impact the operation of the thermostat. For example, if you’ve put the thermostat where it receives the sun’s rays, this could affect the reading. Another reason why your thermostat isn’t functioning may be due to a calibration error.
If you’re using an electric thermostat that operates on batteries, make sure that the batteries are in good working order. To get rid of dirt buildup, remove the cover and use the time to use a soft brush to get rid of any dirt. Call an expert for assistance if you spot a corrosion buildup since cleaning it yourself can cause further damage. Additionally, you should check the position of your thermostat. It is advised to put it in an area you frequently use and then relocate it to a shaded space.
To verify the calibration of your thermostat, you can use a glass thermometer and set it beside your thermostat. Within 15 minutes, compare the temperature readings from both thermostats. If the readings differ by over one degree, you need to calibrate your thermostat. It is possible to eliminate the issues that you had with your thermostat by changing it to an intelligent thermostat. You can adjust it according to your preferences and control it with your smartphone. Smart thermostats also aid in reducing electricity costs.
AC Unit Making Noises
If you experience unusual or high-pitched AC sounds emanating from your unit, it could be a sign of the presence of a problem. These noises may seem irritating however they can assist you in determining the problem before the AC unit issue becomes more severe.
Different sounds can indicate an AC issue – for instance; the grinding sound indicates a compressor or motor failing. If there’s an obstruction within the AC fan or a capacitor problem, the fan will produce clicking sounds. A sound that bubbles are because of a refrigerant leak or excessive moisture in the system.
It is vital never to overlook the AC noise and call an HVAC expert immediately. A professional will assist you in identifying what is causing the noise and resolving the issue.
Circuit Breaker Keeps Tripping
When your circuit breaker is often tripping, it could be due to a myriad of reasons causing the issue, including power surges and capacitor malfunction and dirty coils or filters and low refrigerant levels compressor malfunction, or problems with the circuit breakers themselves. If you spot this issue, switch the AC and don’t attempt to reset the circuit since it could cause a fire.
There isn’t any DIY solution to this issue. Instead, you’ll need to call an expert since circuit breakers involve electrical components that can be risky.
AC Unit Smells Bad
The growth of mold causes a strong scent emanating from your air conditioning. A smoky smell suggests that specific electronic components have caught fire in the system. In addition, the smell of gas indicates the influx of Methyl Mercaptan, which can be risky.
If you switch on the AC after time, you might notice the smell of rotten eggs coming through the. This is because insects and birds can infiltrate your system and die, creating the smell to be a bit odd.
Take the time to cleanse your air conditioner thoroughly before removing it after a time of inactivity. If you have electrical or leakage issues, you should consult a professional to make repairs.
Leaking Ducts
For duct air conditioners, ductwork will be responsible for delivering the cold air into your entire home. But, if there’s an issue with the ductwork, such as a hole or leak that could impact the efficiency of your AC. Even if the air conditioner is on for a few minutes and you feel it’s not working for any reason.
Leaking ducts can impact the quality of the air as the ductwork’s holes could trap dirt and other particles. These extra particles could cause air filter obstructions and result in an uneven heating and cooling system within your home.
To diagnose this common air conditioner problem, you must first search for cracks and tears inside the ductwork. If you’re unable to find the holes, switch on your AC unit at maximum speed to look for airflow in the holes; but, this only is effective if your unit is running air. The majority of leaks occur when the two ducts meet, and you can place your hands near the joints to feel air flowing out.
Once you’ve identified the leaks, apply foil-faced adhesive to close the leaks. However, the tape isn’t the best solution over time; therefore, applying a mastic sealant for ducts is best. It’s a sticky liquid that you apply to gaps and holes and hardens upon drying. If you’re not confident that you’ve done it correctly, get in touch with an HVAC expert such as Velocity Air Conditioning and we will help you out.
Frozen condenser coils
A lack of airflow in your cooling system could create ice in the cooling coils. Various issues could cause insufficient airflow, including the dirty air filter and blocked return air ducts.
A blocked drain pipe or refrigerant leak could result in the coils of condenser freezing. If you suspect that the coils have frozen, you’ll probably require an HVAC repair technician, but you may still attempt these AC troubleshooting tips.
The coils are frozen. Turn off the AC or switch to “fan only” mode. It could take up to 24-hours for coils to melt completely.
Examine your filter. If airflow has diminished due to a dirty or dirty filter, replace it and wait for coils to warm before switching the system on. If the coils start to freeze, then call an engineer.
Schedule preventative maintenance. If you’ve figured out how to fix your homes air conditioner issues yourself or rely on a professional to fix it, plan your annual maintenance to avoid the possibility of further damage to your unit.
Some Emergency AC Unit Repairs
It’s never fun to be faced with troubleshooting AC issues, but specific instances are more challenging than other times. For example, if your central air conditioner is not working on a weekend holiday or at night, and there’s no urgent AC repair service available, then follow the central AC troubleshooting procedures.
Examine the filters, and then replace them if necessary
A dirty filter may cause poor airflow through the HVAC system. Change your filters before calling a technician to determine what can be done to fix the issue.
Examine all vents
Furniture including drapes, toys, and other household items could get in the supply and return vents. Conduct a thorough walkthrough of your home to ensure that all vents are free of obstructions and that they are fully open.
Clean up the debris and foliage from outside the unit
Sticks, leaves, and other debris may become stuck inside your HVAC unit. Remove the foliage from the area and inside the unit to ensure that airflow is maintained.
Examine your temperature
Make sure the settings of your thermostat ensure that the settings on your thermostat are correct. For example, a recent power failure or malfunctioning circuit breaker might cause the thermostat to fail.
Check your AC circuit breakers
Check your home’s electrical panel to locate the circuit breaker for your AC unit. You can flip it back into the “on” “on” position if you need to. Turn on the AC. If the circuit breaker instantly turns off, contact an HVAC technician to perform an AC repair.
If the unit doesn’t function properly after you’ve followed the five suggestions above, switch the unit off and plan immediate HVAC repair. You shouldn’t keep a malfunctioning unit running which could cause further damage to the parts.
Why is Air Conditioning Services Necessary?
Extend the System’s Life
There are numerous possible reasons that an air conditioning unit isn’t operating correctly. However, many of them are relatively minor issues that can be fixed with simple solutions.
If they’re not treated promptly, they could lead to more significant problems that can damage the whole system. The way to prolong the lifespan of your HVAC is to schedule regular maintenance checks.
If a certified technician examines the system, they’ll be able to spot the minor issues. Most likely, they will be able to solve them immediately. So consult a Certified Technician now.
The speed of turnaround can be a significant impact on the life span of the unit.
HVAC systems can be expensive to set up initially, and you should ensure the security of the investment. When you make an appointment, the technician will inspect the system and check for any signs of trouble. They’ll conduct a visual inspection and will likely listen for issues.
The technician will then swiftly take care to clean the area. This lets them see any repairs that are minor and can be made immediately.
It might seem like a minor issue, but a routine appointment with an HVAC professional could help you save a significant amount of money over the years.
Purify Air Quality
An air conditioner can do more than pump the cold breeze into your residence. A variety of systems help to improve your air.
When air travels through the system and then into the house, it goes through the filter system. Therefore, the pollutants commonly present in the air, such as dust or pollen, are removed based on the specific filter and system.
If the system isn’t receiving regular cleaning or maintenance, the filters start to get packed. The more they can filter out more waste that remains inside the system. Over time, the buildup could cause damage to the system.
A dirty air filter could introduce contaminants back into the air.
Our AC repair technician will ensure that all filters appear clean and clear, allowing for better airflow to the home.
Reduces Humidity Indoors
The advantage of AC repair is the reduction of humidity in your home. As the air flows through the cooling and filtration system, the excess water is removed.
The humidity inside a house is a significant issue since it could cause problems like mildew and mold. In addition, they can have a severe impact on the well-being of the residents, particularly those who suffer from respiratory ailments.
A house with high humidity will have a musty odor all through, which is highly uncomfortable.
The principal purpose of an air conditioner is to make homes more comfortable. The high humidity doesn’t feel pleasant at all. It gives the impression of the air being heavy and everything feeling sticky. It makes humidity feel warmer and also.
A technician for service will assess the humidity levels in your home and help you make decisions about your system according to the results.
Different systems offer different capabilities regarding humidity-related. They can also help you modify your system to lower the overall humidity. In addition, they’re well-trained, making sure your AC system contributes to an enjoyable living space and are equipped to repair AC problems.
Add-on System Upgrades
Technology for temperature control is continuously evolving. For example, smart thermostats are becoming increasingly popular and more people are opting to incorporate them into their homes.
Air conditioning systems are expected to integrate seamlessly with the latest technology. However, there may be some tweaking that has to be done first.
A certified HVAC expert will know what you need to do to get these two devices working. In addition, they will assist with any programming difficulties that you encounter. These types of tips will assist you in getting the most value from your unit.
Many people also opt to incorporate different filters into their air conditioning units.
Because the HVAC system is essential for a comfortable lifestyle, it’s a good idea to get a professional to install any modifications to ensure that it’s done correctly. In addition, the systems and machines have to be calibrated to operate precisely as they should. This typically isn’t a do it yourself task and requires a trained and certified technician.
An AC repair service will help keep your system in top condition with any upgrades you’d like to make.
Increase System Efficiency
A poorly functioning air conditioner can do more than keep your home warm. It could cost you a significant amount of money during summer.
The repair of your AC when temperatures begin to rise will reduce the monthly bill for electricity instead of operating continuously to cool the home. As a result, it can attain the desired temperature.
In addition to changing filters, the technician will examine other parts of the equipment. This includes the fins and coils.
Both of these parts may be worn out with time. If this is so, the entire system will not perform as it should. An expert could be able to repair the damage caused or may have to replace it entirely.
They’ll have the expertise and experience to determine what the most appropriate solution is. Technicians will likely examine the drain for condensation of the buildup. This could cause serious problems; however, it is a simple fix in the majority of instances.
After a thorough inspection after a thorough inspection, your AC will be restored to a reliable and efficient system capable of cooling your home without increasing the cost of your electricity by a significant amount.
License and Experience
Air conditioners can be become expensive if not maintained correctly. Make sure to hire professional technicians that can service your unit and are capable of diagnosing ay issues you are facing with your air conditioning. Hiring the right company will save you a huge headache in the future because the right company ca offer quick, precise and efficient service and when it’s mid-summer here in Tampa that means a lot.
A sign of the repair service’s credibility is their certifications and experience. Be sure to ensure that the company you choose to come out and service your air condition company is licensed and insured for the job at your residence.
All contractors must hold an official license and receive the proper training in dealing with heavy equipment like an AC unit.
The fact that a repair service has been around longer doesn’t mean they’re not proficient in the work they perform. The stability of their business and the ability to tackle technical issues is essential too.
If they don’t have the appropriate licenses, any injury that occur during the process could cause you to incur a more significant expense. The insurance company can pay for the costs if repairers who fix the condenser or the air ducts in your AC hurt themselves while doing the work.
A reputable air conditioning repair service in Clearwater, FL, with the certification to perform air conditioning repair, will undoubtedly have a history of a high level of customer support. You might inquire from your family, friends and neighbors if the company you select is trustworthy and capable of handling customer complaints. Velocity Air Conditioning servicing the Clearwater area including Tampa is one of the areas most trusted companies.
Find a repair service that trains its staff in customer service and technical aspects since both of them go hand in hand. If a repair business performs well but fails to provide customer service then there is an issue since the satisfaction of customers should be a business’s #1 priority.
So it is important that an air condition company should be able to demonstrate these three essential things. Then, they can be qualified to be the repair company you choose. Consider Velocity Air Conditioning service; We are Tampa Bay’s trusted service company, we service Clearwater, St. Petersburg, Largo and surrounding areas.
Stay Informed of the Complete Services
The following step is to carefully look over the full range of services the repair firm you select offers. For example, an air conditioning repair service that claims to be reputable should be able to cover the essential repairs to the air conditioner.
They must solve leaks and clean air ducts, repair refrigerants and condensers, and many more. You, as the client, are entitled to be informed about the complete warranty package, the service packages and the aftercare services.
Study the Maintenance Plan
It is essential that you review the maintenance plans of each company.
An air conditioning company located in St. Petersburg, FL that does what they say will always provide their bi-annual or annual maintenance schedule. This is an essential element of their after-sales service and their obligation to you.
The maintenance schedule should monitor the whole unit at least once every six months to ensure there aren’t any leaks. An air conditioning company located in St. Petersburg, FL that doesn’t provide a comprehensive maintenance program should be taken out of your considerations immediately.
There may be a time that shortly, you’ll need the repair service again, and If the company offers maintenance programs that cover various services, it’s an ideal solution for both.
Pick Someone Knowledgeable
This can’t be stressed enough. When you deal with a reputable company such as Velocity Air Conditioning you can be assured that you are getting the best customer service along with extremely knowledgeable technicians to come out promptly and fix your issue. If you are having an issue with your ac unit chances are very high that we’ve seen it before and can get you back to being comfortable quickly. You can contact us anytime.
Always Choose A Professional For Any AC Unit Issues
A repair service that isn’t efficient can immediately disappoint its clients. Additionally, a company that isn’t professionally run can require a long time to get to your home and cause you to wait longer than you have to. If you’re looking for an air conditioning service in Tampa, Clearwater, or St. Petersburg, FL, then don’t hesitate to call us. We’ll have someone out to your home fast and you will be met with a friendly technician who can handle all your air condition issues. Velocity Air Conditioning will be here for you if you need our services.
