How to Repair Central Air Conditioners
- Cut down any grass, weeds, or vines that have grown around condenser unit; they could be obstructing airflow.
- Clean condenser with commercial coil cleaner, available at refrigerator supply stores. Instructions for use are included. ...
- Clean fins with soft brush to remove accumulated dirt. ...
Full Answer
Should I repair or replace my central AC unit?
When deciding whether to repair or replace your air conditioner, there are a few factors to consider. These include the age of the unit, its performance and efficiency, and the cost of any required repair. Having these things in mind will help you make a less-panicked plan of action if your AC breaks down on the hottest day of the year.
How to troubleshoot most central AC problems?
Top reasons your unit isn't keeping you cool
- Is the filter dirty? No matter which type of air conditioner you have, a clogged filter restricts airflow, decreasing efficiency and reducing the ability to effectively cool the air. ...
- Is it too sunny inside? If your window AC is in a window that gets direct sunlight in the heat of the day, it will have to work harder ...
- Is warm air leaking in? ...
When to replace your central AC system?
How to Save Money on Central AC Unit Cost
- Look for local and federal rebates and tax breaks for upgrading an old system to a newer high-efficiency system.
- Consider installing an AC unit in the spring or fall when HVAC professionals are less busy.
- Ask about installing a ductless split system if you prefer to cool only a few rooms in the house.
How much to install central AC?
- Split-system central air conditioners installed in the Southeastern Region of the US must be at least 14 SEER.
- Split-system central air conditioners installed in the Southwestern Region must be a minimum of 14 SEER and 12.2 EER.
- Split-system central air conditioners installed in all other states must continue to be a minimum of 13 SEER.
How do I fix my central air conditioner that is not cooling?
The following are a few things to check when your air conditioner is not cooling your space.Check and reset the thermostat. ... Replace the dirty filter. ... Clear the clogged condensation drain. ... Try to diagnose duct malfunctions. ... Clear the area around the compressor.
How do I fix my central air unit?
Try the following DIY AC troubleshooting tips the next time you're having AC issues:Check for a dirty air filter.Check your thermostat settings.Check your air conditioner circuit breakers.Check your outdoor unit.Check all air vents.
Why is my central AC running but not cooling?
If you're experiencing AC not cooling while the system is powered on, you could have a clogged or blocked coil. Unfortunately, a wide variety of debris can find its way into this equipment, including grass, dirt, and other contaminants. This can result in a serious clog, which can lead to a system malfunction.
What causes central AC to stop working?
Some central air units come with a sensor that causes the system to shut down if the air filter gets too dirty. Some manufacturers design their systems this way to prevent their customers from breathing in polluted air that could instead be filtered throughout their homes.
Should I turn off my AC if it is not cooling?
So, if your air conditioner isn't cooling, and you suspect a refrigerant leak, or if you've checked the air filter and thermostat to no avail, yes, you should shut your air conditioner off and call us right away.
Why is my air conditioner not cooling my house below 80 degrees?
If your filter is loaded with dust and dirt, it could be causing your air conditioner to not run effectively. If you haven't changed your filter lately, now might be the time to do so. Filters keep dust and other contaminants from building up in your air conditioner.
How do I reset my central air conditioning unit?
How do you reset your AC unit?Turn off your air conditioning system using the thermostat. ... Search for the breaker box. ... Shut off your AC unit at the breaker. ... Wait at least a full minute before switching the breaker back to the “on” position.Wait for 30 minutes before turning your unit back on at the thermostat.More items...•
Does a central air unit have a reset button?
Most air conditioning units are equipped with a reset button. These buttons tend to be red and quite small. If you're having a tough time finding it, consult your owner's manual.
What is the most common problem with AC?
Old, clogged air filters are often to blame for AC problems like frozen coils. If the filter isn't the problem; you could be low on refrigerant. Test this by feeling the larger of the two copper lines that go into the unit's condenser. If it is moist and cold to the touch – your levels are good.
How do I know if my central air is broken?
If you see any of the following warning signs, you likely need an air conditioner repair:Warm Air. When you feel warm air blowing out of your home's vents, check the thermostat. ... Insufficient Airflow. ... Frequent Cycles. ... High Humidity. ... Water Leaks. ... Bad Odors. ... Unusual Noises.
How do you know when your AC is broken?
Your AC is considered broken when it no longer produces cold or hot air into the home. Even if the system comes on, if the airflow isn't high enoug...
How do I reset my air conditioning unit?
The reset procedure will depend on the type of air conditioner you have. Some models will have a reset button near the control board that you can p...
Is a broken AC an emergency?
A broken AC is always a problem, but considering it an emergency will vary. For example, in the state of Texas, a broken AC is only an emergency if...
How do I find a 24 hour HVAC repairman in my area?
You can use Modernize.com or our professional contractor tools to locate reliable and dependable repair contractors. Many of the most professional...
Can you sue your landlord for not fixing AC?
You can sue your landlord for not repairing the AC in every state except Arkansas. The level of arbitration and costs will vary from state to state...
How long does it take for an AC unit to reset?
AC units and thermostats have built-in delay features when they're shut down and then repowered. The delay can be as long as 10 minutes. And, if you've subscribed to an energy-saving device from your local power utility, the unit can take even longer to reset. If you've installed the parts shown and reinstalled the disconnect block, repowered the circuit breaker, turned on the switch at the furnace, moved the thermostat to AC mode and lowered the temperature below the indoor temperature, and the unit doesn't fire up after 30 minutes, it's time to call a pro.
What is the A coil on a central air conditioner?
Central home air conditioner service systems consist of two major components: a condensing unit that sits outside your house, and the evaporator coil (often referred to as an A-coil) that sits in the plenum of your furnace or air handler. The refrigerant in the A-coil picks up the heat from your home and moves it to the outdoor condensing unit. The condensing unit fan blows outside air through the condensing coil to remove the heat. The condensing unit houses the three parts replaceable by a DIYer: the AC contactor, the start/run capacitor (s) and the condenser fan motor. The condensing unit also houses the compressor, but only a pro can replace that. The A-coil has no parts that can be serviced by a DIYer.
What to do if compressor doesn't start?
If the compressor starts but the fan doesn't, the fan motor is most likely shot. Shut off the power and remove the screws around the condenser cover. Lift the cover and remove the fan blade and motor. Reinstall the blade and secure the cover. Then repower the unit and see if the fan starts.
What does a blown fuse on a condensing unit mean?
Many disconnect blocks contain two cartridge fuses. Check them before you proceed with repairs. A blown fuse is a sign of a failing part inside the condensing unit. So don't just replace it and think you've solved the problem. Instead, replace the parts, install new fuses, and fire up the unit. If it blows again, call a pro—you've got more serious issues.
How often should I replace my AC contactor?
Even if your AC contactor is working, it pays to replace it every five years or so. Unscrew the old AC contactor before removing the wires. Then move the wires to the new unit ( Photo 6 ).
Do AC units have capacitors?
All air conditioning service units have at least one capacitor. The capacitor stores electricity and releases it during compressor and condenser fan startup to give both motors an extra jolt of power. And it smooths out voltage fluctuations to protect the compressor and condenser fan motor from damage.
Can capacitors degrade over time?
Capacitors can degrade slowly, providing less startup power over time. Or they can fail in an instant. Gradual capacitor failure can go unnoticed for a long time, stressing the compressor and condenser fan motor windings, resulting in their early failure.
Most Common Problems
Central air conditioner not working? Use our troubleshooting guide to learn how to fix the problem yourself. Begin by entering the model number in the search box to see the parts causing the issue with your central ac. Then choose the symptom that best describes your issue and review the list of causes.
The Right Parts for the Job
We carry more than 4 million parts from over 175 major brands, so chances are, we've got the part you need.
Why does my air conditioner fail?
The other most common issues with automotive air conditioner failure are due to leaks in the refrigerant lines, bad seals, or a worn compressor clutch. All of these issues require a trained and licensed professional to diagnose, locate (for leaks), and repair.
What are the problems with air conditioners?
The Most Basic Problems of Air Conditioners. With residential air conditioners, there are a lot of moving parts. There are electrical and mechanical components, refrigerants, and a lot of copper tubing. Something can go wrong at any time.
Why does my Lennox air conditioner lose airflow?
After installing a Lennox air conditioner, the biggest consumer complaint is that the system loses airflow. However, this generally goes beyond a dirty or clogged air filter (though you should always check this first). The largest reason this occurs is that the system is improperly installed.
Why won't my fan spin?
Cleaning vents, compressor overheating, low refrigerant, leaks, and burnt-out fan motors all need a trained professional. The biggest issue with these known problems is proper diagnosis. For example, a fan motor that doesn’t spin can be one of seven different causes. It can also be a combination of issues.
Is an air conditioner the same as a car?
Almost all automotive air conditioners are the same. What is different, though, is the car around the system. Knowledge of the car brand and make is important, and you should ensure that the mechanic knows the brand well enough to work on your car.
Can a leaking evaporator cause water to leak?
Indoor water leaking is almost always found around the evaporator unit. When the air passes over the evaporator coils, it condenses. The condensate falls into the drain pan where it is removed from the home through the drain line. If the drain line or pan is clogged, though, it can overflow, causing a water leak.
Is it normal to see condensation on a refrigerant line?
However, it shouldn’t be so bad as to create puddles or small streams of running water.
How to fix AC that is not cooling?
If your AC is not cooling but runs: Turn off the power. Clean or change the air filter to improve airflow. Look to see if ice has formed on the coils and, if it has, turn on the power and the fan to melt it. Clean the condensate drain. Finally, check and clean the outdoor compressor.
What to do if AC is not working?
If your AC is not working at all: Be sure it is receiving power at the electrical panel. Reset the equipment’s switches and/or overloads. Check the thermostat settings. Check the condensate overflow switch. Check the capacitor and contactor in the compressor.
What to do if air handler doesn't run?
If the air handler doesn’t run at all, it may not be receiving power. Check its circuit breaker, and any switch that controls it at the air handler or furnace cabinet.
Why is my air handler dripping?
Water dripping or pooling at the base of the air handler indicates: 1) a leak from one of the plastic pipes or tubes that carry it, 2) something may be blocking the water’s flow, or 3) the condensate pump may not be working. If the pump stops working, it will overflow.
How to check if air handler is working?
1 Turn off the power to the air conditioning air handler or furnace. If the air handler is a gas furnace, turn off the gas at the gas valve that serves the furnace. 2 Remove the door on the front of the air-handler cabinet so you can access the air filter.
Why does my AC handler freeze up?
Ice In the AC Air Handler. Only two things cause an AC air handler to freeze up: 1) reduced air flow because of dirty filters, coils, or poorly working fans, and 2) low refrigerant level, which a pro must check and, if necessary, recharge. More often than not, the problem comes from reduced air flow.
Why is my AC not blowing cold air?
If the AC doesn’t blow cold air, this would indicate that the thermostat and the blower motor are operating, but the refrigeration system (outdoor compressor) is not working right or air isn’t circulating properly, usually because of dirty filters.
What to do if your AC circuit is tripped?
If your AC circuit breakers are tripped, push the breakers firmly into the ON position and try running your AC again.
How to check if AC is tripped?
What to do: Go to your home’s main electrical panel and check for circuit breakers that aren’t in the ON position. If your circuit breakers are clearly labeled, look specifically for one labeled “air conditioner” or “AC”.
Why close AC return vent?
AC return vent. Many homeowners also purposefully close supply vents in rooms that aren’t being used because they think they will save money on energy bills. But really, all that does is increase energy bills and cause other AC and ductwork problems. AC supply vent.
Can a rug block an AC return vent?
Rugs, drapes or furniture can easily block both return vents (vents that suck air in, see picture below) and supply vents (vents that blow air out) so keep an eye out for blocked air vents throughout your home. AC return vent.
Does AC provide cooling?
AC doesn’t provide adequate cooling. What to do: Go outside and take a look at your outside AC unit (condenser). If you see a layer of dirt on the outside of the unit, use a hose on a gentle setting to remove the dirt.
Can leaves get stuck in AC coils?
However, if you see a thick layer of dirt covering your condenser, we suggest calling in a professional for a deeper cleaning. Even leaves or branches stuck in the condenser coils can cause serious AC problems. Note: Also keep an eye out for foliage or fences that are within 2 feet from your outdoor unit. Move any surrounding objects ...
