Summer is here! In the HVAC industry, summer is full of AC repairs. From refrigerant leaks to fan repairs, we see it all during this season. However, as much as we want to be your go-to HVAC professionals, the team at Haisma is plenty busy and wants your AC to last! Here are the main reasons why your air conditioning could fail over the next few months and some of our tips to avoid them!
Electrical Issues
Air conditioning uses electricity to cool your home. Unlike some heating systems that use gas and electricity, you typically only have to worry about one fuel source during the summer months when your air conditioning is working. The heavy use of air conditioning is one of the main factors that cause electricity use to increase by over 20% for the average American household during the summer months. Make sure your electrical systems are in good working order, so you can handle the increased demand.
If your AC isn’t even turning on, there might be an electrical problem. Your main circuit breaker sends power throughout your home to the other circuit breakers. There might be an issue with a small branch circuit to your AC that could cause the issue. This is common if there is an overload for example. Make sure your electricity is in good working order if your AC doesn’t turn on.
Refrigerant Leaks
While electricity is the only fuel for your air conditioner, refrigerant is a vital component as well. Without it, you can’t get the quick temperature changes that super-cool the air for the unit.
The tricky thing about refrigerant is that it is dangerous. Refrigerant fumes are poisonous and can even cause death if untreated. It can impact the lungs very negatively if not handled safely. This is why you need to call an HVAC professional to clean up the leak and repair your AC.
Not Changing Air Filter
Changing your air filter is key to keeping indoor air quality high. However, not changing your air filter can impact your AC in more catastrophic ways. A clogged-up filter can trap cold air in the ducts and send it back into the unit. This can sometimes super-cool your AC coil to the point where it freezes. Make sure you are switching out your air filter once every few months!
Forgetting About Maintenance
Annual maintenance is something we harp on a lot as HVAC service technicians. Maintenance is so important because it catches issues when they’re small. Most homeowners don’t visually inspect their HVAC units often. Even if they do, they might not have the expertise to spot an issue, especially if it’s something small that could grow to become a big deal. It’s never too late to get maintenance, so if you haven’t gotten it done this year, schedule it today!
Mechanical Damage
Air conditioners are machines with a lot of moving parts. It’s easy to forget that because it’s typically unseen. Mechanical issues due come up. Whether it’s a fan blade or a compressor pump, a mechanical problem can take your AC completely out of commission.
Thermostat
Your thermostat plays a major role in your HVAC system. Even if your AC is in great shape, your thermostat could screw it all up. It can cause your air conditioner to cycle too frequently or fail to start at all.
Haisma Heating & Cooling has you covered for all your HVAC needs. We hope your air conditioner gets through the next few months without a hitch, but if not we’re here for you! Need help with any of your HVAC needs, fill out our form online, or call us at (616) 319-2121.