Air conditioning repair is more than just restoring the cooling functionality of an air conditioner. It also ensures that the system can efficiently regulate temperature and humidity.
If your AC makes strange noises like rattling, squeaking, or banging, it’s time to make a maintenance appointment. These sounds indicate various problems, including dirty filters or clogged drain lines. Contact Air Conditioning Repair Orlando now!
If your AC unit is turning on and off in quick succession, you’re experiencing what’s known as short cycling. This issue compromises your comfort, leads to higher energy bills, and can even damage your air conditioner over time. So, what causes it? While you may think the best option is to call a professional immediately, there are some easy fixes that can save you both time and money.
The most common cause of short cycling is a dirty air filter. When the air filter is clogged with dust, it restricts airflow and causes the system to overheat. To prevent this, replace your air filter regularly, ideally every 1-3 months.
Another problem that can lead to short cycling is a frozen or leaking evaporator coil. The evaporator coil removes latent heat from the air, but it can’t do that when it’s iced or dirty. If this is the case, turn off your system and check the evaporator coils for ice. If it is iced, leave your system off until the coils completely defrost.
A malfunctioning thermostat can also cause your air conditioner to short cycle. Over time, thermostats can start to lose accuracy and register the home as warmer than it actually is. This will trigger the air conditioner to run longer than necessary and shut off prematurely, leading to short cycling.
Lastly, a failing compressor motor can also lead to short cycling. The repeated starting and stopping puts additional stress on the compressor, which can lead to early wear and tear and early failure. If the compressor motor is still under warranty, it can be much more cost-effective to simply use your warranty to have it replaced by a new unit.
If you’re experiencing any of these issues, or any other problem with your air conditioning, don’t hesitate to contact a reputable professional right away. An experienced HVAC technician will be able to diagnose the problem and provide the necessary solution. They can inspect your system, determine whether you need a smaller unit, more refrigerant, or repairs to the wiring and power source.
Unpleasant odors
The smell of musty, mildew-like funk is an unmistakable sign that moisture has started to accumulate where it shouldn’t — and is now being blown into your home. Mold and mildew thrive in warm, damp environments such as those around condensation on evaporator coils and drain lines. When these microbes get blown into your ductwork (in the case of ducted AC systems) or into your living spaces, they produce signature musty odors that are instantly noticeable every time you turn on your air conditioning system.
Odors that smell like burning rubber or rotten eggs are also a serious problem that warrants immediate attention. They typically indicate that there’s a dead animal stuck somewhere in the air conditioner or ductwork. If you notice these odors, shut off your HVAC system immediately and contact a local pest control company to investigate and address the issue.
Another odor that demands immediate attention is one that smells like exhaust fumes. This can be an indication that there’s a refrigerant leak in the system. Inhaled refrigerant is toxic, so don’t delay getting the problem addressed by a licensed technician.
Keeping an eye out for unpleasant odors from your air conditioning system can help you prevent expensive repair bills later. For most odor sources, basic troubleshooting steps can resolve the problem entirely. However, serious problems such as electrical burnouts or significant leaks will almost always require a professional diagnosis and AC repair. The longer these issues go untreated, the more they’ll deteriorate your air quality and lead to costly repairs or replacements in the future. So don’t let foul odors undermine your summer comfort; call the professionals at Berico today to discuss your needs and schedule an appointment to address the problem!
Ice buildup
Whether you own a central air conditioner, ductless mini-split system or window-mounted unit, finding your AC covered in frost or ice is never good news. In addition to reducing cooling efficiency, ice build-up indicates that heat exchange in the system isn’t occurring properly and can lead to costly repair bills down the road.
Fortunately, there are several ways to prevent ice build-up in your AC, starting with regular maintenance visits. A certified HVAC technician will check the system and ensure refrigerant levels are optimal, preventing the evaporator coil from freezing over. They’ll also make sure all air vents and registers are open and unobstructed, ensuring proper airflow and avoiding any potential blockages that could trigger the ice-forming process.
Ice formation is typically a sign of problems with your air conditioner’s heat transfer process, either due to restricted airflow or low refrigerant. Restricted airflow keeps warm air from passing over the evaporator coil efficiently, while low refrigerant reduces the coil’s ability to absorb heat, which can cause it to freeze. If left unchecked, ice build-up can even damage the compressor and other parts of the unit.
If you notice ice forming on your air conditioner, the first thing you should do is turn off the system and let it thaw. Don’t attempt to scrape the ice or chisel it away, as this will only increase the likelihood of damaging your unit and may not actually solve the underlying problem. Instead, use a heat gun or hair dryer set on the highest setting to speed up the thawing process.
The best way to prevent ice build-up in your air conditioning is to have a professional clean the evaporator and condenser coils. These should be done at least every two years, as the dirt and debris that accumulates on the coil can inhibit proper heat transfer and eventually lead to the ice-forming process. Having the coils cleaned regularly by an experienced HVAC technician will help you avoid the need for expensive repair services down the line. Also, remember to change your air filter on a regular basis and keep it clean to improve airflow and prevent blockages.
Dirty filters
One of the most common reasons for air conditioning repair is a dirty filter. Dirty filters prevent the system from performing effectively and can cause a variety of symptoms. Luckily, this problem is easy to prevent with a little diligence and regular maintenance.
A clean filter is important because it traps allergens and other harmful particles. As these particles are filtered, they are prevented from entering the ductwork and recirculating throughout your home. This can be extremely problematic for people with allergies or respiratory problems. Dirty filters also reduce efficiency and lead to increased energy bills.
While the majority of homeowners know that air filters need to be changed regularly, some may forget to do so or ignore the warning signs. Dirty air filters can cause serious damage to your HVAC system and lead to costly air conditioning repairs. However, the problem is easily preventable by ensuring you change your filter and schedule routine maintenance with a professional.
When an air filter becomes too dirty, the dirt and particles become entangled in the evaporator coils and blower fan. This clogs the coil and prevents proper air flow. As a result, the compressor must work harder to cool your home and your energy bill increases. In addition, a dirty air filter can cause the evaporator coils to freeze, which is not only expensive but can be dangerous.
Changing your filter regularly can improve indoor air quality, reduce energy costs, and extend your HVAC system lifespan. Changing the filter can be done at home by removing the old filter, inspecting it for visible debris, and cleaning or replacing it as needed. A reminder can be set to ensure you always remember to check and replace your filter.
The most common sign of a dirty air filter is a visible accumulation of dust around the vents. This can be an indicator that the filter is no longer able to trap allergens and other particles. Other symptoms of a dirty filter include a noticeable reduction in airflow and uneven heating or cooling throughout the house. These symptoms indicate that the air filter is clogged and needs to be replaced.
