6 Common Air Conditioner Problems and How to Solve Them

Creating favorable working and living conditions in a commercial facility is crucial to ensure comfort for people who spend time in the premises. Being a facility owner or manager, you don't want to compromise on the Air Conditioning or Ventilation of the facility to maintain a comfortable environment for both the customers and the employees. Air Conditioners undoubtedly play a vital role in our lives. But, just like any other appliance, they need regular maintenance to deliver optimal performance.

We asked our HVAC experts to identify the most common problems that crop up with air conditioners and created a list along with good practices to prevent them. This can help you avoid costly repairs down the road.

1 - Water Leakage (Indoors)

Leaking indoor units are a clear sign of an overdue maintenance as one of the main reasons for such a problem is a clogged condensate drain of the system either due to algae or fungi. However, in some cases, this could be because of a broken condensate pump that needs replacement.

Solution?

In most of the cases, this can be easily fixed with a few DIY solutions. First, try pouring in 6 ounces of vinegar in the clogged condensate pipe, this will kill fungi or algae build-up. Then, use a wet vacuum to clean it up. However, if this does not work out for you, or you have a broken condensate pipe, contact an HVAC technician for the help.

2 - Water Leakage (Outdoors)

Tired of water puddles right under the compressor of your air conditioner?

Understandable! Leaking outdoor units are usually a result of one of these reasons:

• - A dry air filter
• - Broken condensate pan
• - Bad seal
• - Improper installation.

Solution?

Your best bet against such an issue is to turn off the system and call an HVAC professional. Trying to fix this on your own can be tricky and risky.

3 - Air Conditioner Refrigerant Leakage

The refrigerant, also known as Freon, is a liquid cooling agent that your system uses it to remove heat and humidity from indoor air. But, in case this leaks, it can not only reduce your system's efficiency but also can also be harmful to the immediate environment. However, leakages can not be fixed until a technician locates & repairs the holes in the lines.

Solution?

In most cases, there is a minor leak that can be repaired by re-soldering using high silver content solder and a high temperature torch. However, if there are large holes in the lines or there are several minor holes, changing the whole network is the only solution. In either case, you would need to contact an HVAC expert to get it done.

4 - Dirty Air Filters

An air conditioner filter plays an important role in keeping your facility clean, HVAC system running smoothly, and ensuring proper indoor air quality. But if it is clogged, it won't only restrict the airflow and put more burden on the unit, but will also contribute towards compromised air quality.

Solution?

If you find your air conditioner struggling with the airflow, check the air filter and give it a nice wash. And, if you allow pets in your facility, you need to be extra careful about the air filters because of the pet furs.

Ideally air conditioner air filters should be cleaned every two weeks and replaced after every two months.

5 - Damaged Compressor

Compressor is the heart of an air conditioning system because it helps refrigerants carry out heat exchange, allowing it to actually cool your space. Improper level of refrigerant can cause the compressor to fail.

Solution?

If you find compromised cooling or airflow, chances are that your system's compressor is not running smoothly. Contact your local air conditioner technician to see if this can be fixed or would need a replacement.

6 - Frozen Evaporator Coil

Many people complain that their AC units do not provide proper cooling. Well, a frozen evaporator coil could be one of the many reasons for this.

This is a result of debris build-up or dirt accumulation on the coils that restricts the airflow, stopping warm air from reaching the refrigerant.

This forces the refrigerant to become too cold and any moisture on the coil to freeze.

Solution?

This simple problem can be easily fixed with a quick DIY solution. You just need to defrost the evaporator coil either by not using the unit or by using a hairdryer. Just make sure that you do not overheat the coils.

Schedule An Inspection

If you need assistance from HVAC experts, feel free to call ProServices Supply at (877) 776-8228 or reach us out at proservicessupply.com for HVAC repairing and protecting services. We have a team of professional HVAC experts on the ground that not only provide reliable but also fast and effective solutions to your cooling and heating issues.