What Are Some Tips for Troubleshooting Air Conditioner Problems?

Troubleshooting Air Conditioner Difficulties

Having an air conditioner is a great way to keep your home or office cool and comfortable, but sometimes they can experience issues that can be difficult to diagnose. From poor cooling to water leakage and strange noises, there are a few common problems that can arise with air conditioners.

Common Air Conditioner Problems

The most frequent difficulties with air conditioners include:

Insufficient Cooling: This is usually caused by either a lack of refrigerant in the system or a blocked filter. Check the filter and replace it if necessary. If the issue persists, contact an HVAC technician to check for any leaks.
Water Leakage: This could be due to a clogged condensate drain line or a faulty drain pan. Clean out the drain line and inspect the pan for any cracks or damage. If needed, replace the pan.
Unusual Noises: This could be caused by loose parts or debris in the system. Check for any loose screws or bolts and remove any debris that may be present. If the noise persists, contact an HVAC technician for further inspection.

Frequently Asked Question

How often should AC filters be changed?

Typically and if no one in the household has allergies, AC filters should be replaced around every 90 days. To get the best results, it is recommended to replace your AC filters every 45 days. Make sure that your replacement has the right air filter size and type. For an AC filter that was working with no issues, you can simply remove the filter and replace it with something identical.

What type of AC filter is best?

The U.S. Department of Health recommends HEPA (High-efficiency particulate air) filters due to their ability to remove up to 99.97 percent of airborne allergens and pollutants. These include dust and mold spores which are as tiny as 0.3 microns.

Does it matter what AC filter you use?

The simple answer is "No" since not all air filters are the same. While it is true that air filters come in various types, it is important to note that choosing the right one can positively impact the lifespan of your HVAC system.

What happens if you don't change your AC filter?

When you don't change your AC filter, it will start to fail in its function. This means it will cease in filtering the air properly while allowing contaminants and dust to enter your AC. When dust piles up, it will jam the moving parts of your AC such as the valves and fan motors. This leads to the restriction of the airflow which then creates a tension on the system.

Is it better to use cheap AC filters?

This will largely depend on what your needs are. Cheaper filters are fine if you need something that you don't expect to last forever and something that is cheaper upfront.