Beat the Heat with DIY Air Conditioning Repair.
When summer temperatures rise, a working air conditioner is essential for keeping your home cool and comfortable. However, AC units inevitably require repairs and maintenance from time to time. Before calling a professional, there are many common ac repair Pearland you can do yourself with minimal skills and tools. Read on to learn how to troubleshoot issues and fix problems related to AC maintenance, electrical issues, refrigerant levels, frozen coils, airflow obstruction, and more.
AC Maintenance One of the easiest DIY steps for keeping your air conditioner running smoothly is preventative maintenance. Be sure to:
Change filters every 1-3 months since dirty filters restrict airflow. Vacuum filters or use gentle water rinsing to clean.
Clear debris outside from the AC condenser unit and straighten any bent fins on the coils using a fin comb tool. This allows for optimal airflow.
Clean dirt buildup off the condenser coils each year using a hose, sprayer, or coil cleaner solution.
Check that condenser unit fans spin properly and don’t have obstructions or damage.
Pour 1⁄2 cup bleach or vinegar down the condensate drain line to prevent algae and mildew buildup which can clog drainage.
Spray lubricant on the AC’s blower motor bearings once a year.
Proper preventative maintenance keeps your AC running efficiently and can prevent more costly repairs.
Electrical Problems Faulty electrical connections or components are common AC repair issues. Check for:
Loose wire connections at the thermostat or condenser unit. Tighten any loose wiring.
Tripped circuit breakers or blown fuses related to the AC unit. Reset breakers and replace fuses as needed.
Problems with the thermostat display or settings. Replace thermostat batteries if applicable. Reprogram settings if needed.
Issues with the control board causing an operational failure. Professional service may be required.
Strange electrical smells suggest a short. Immediately shut off power and call an electrician.
Refrigerant Issues The refrigerant is crucial for heat transfer during the AC cooling process. Refrigerant-related problems include:
Low refrigerant levels cause reduced or no cooling. Have levels professionally tested and recharged if low.
Refrigerant leaks causing declines in cooling performance over time as refrigerant dissipates. Call a technician to detect and seal any leaks.
Iced over evaporator coils indicating low refrigerant levels or airflow issues. Turn AC off and allow coils to defrost.
Frozen AC Unit If your AC unit outside is encased in ice with the coils and lines frosted over, a frozen evaporator coil is likely blocking proper airflow. First turn the AC off and allow the ice to melt. Then inspect the filter, refrigerant levels, fin coils and condensate drain for any blockages to prevent it from freezing up again once turned back on.
Restricted Airflow For cooling to work, air needs to freely flow across the evaporator coils then into the ductwork. Look for:
Dirty air filters that restrict flow. Replace clogged filters.
Blocked vents and registers in your home limiting air circulation.
Kinked or crushed drain lines causing condensate backup and restricted airflow.
Ductwork leaks allow cooled air to escape before reaching vents. Seal any leaks or gaps.
Condenser unit airflow blockage from leaves, dirt, etc. Clear away debris.
Bent or damaged evaporator fins. Use a fin comb to straighten.
For any complex AC repairs involving refrigerant, complicated electrical issues, or condenser/blower motor replacement, rely on the expertise of professional HVAC maintenance. But implementing regular maintenance along with basic troubleshooting and repairs can optimize your AC’s performance.