
When your air conditioning system isn’t working properly, it can quickly turn your home into an uncomfortable environment. The last thing you want during a hot Vancouver WA summer is to be stuck without a functioning AC.
So what’s the next step? Calling in an HVAC professional who handles all sorts of repairs, such as:
- Component(s) or system replacement
- Refrigerant recharging
- System calibration
- Lubrication
- Sealing (with patching materials)
We’ve seen many homeowners attempt DIY fixes or delay repairs, hoping the problem will resolve itself. However, this often leads to more extensive damage and costly repairs down the line. At All Seasons Heating & Cooling, Inc., our certified technicians are equipped to handle all these repairs and more.
If your A/C problem is urgent, call us right away. Our emergency services team is available 24/7!
8 Most Common Air Conditioner Problems
Low Refrigerant
- Cause: Leaks in the system or improper charging.
- Sign(s) to look out for: Insufficient cooling, higher energy bills, or ice on the refrigerant lines.
- Type of repair(s) needed: Leak repair, then a refrigerant recharge (to the correct level).
A technician recharges the system with the correct type of refrigerant and amount (as specified by the manufacturer). Using the wrong refrigerant or amount (under or overcharging) can damage the unit.
Refrigerant Leaks
- Cause: Wear and tear on components, corrosion, or undercharging.
- Sign(s) to look out for: Reduced cooling efficiency, hissing sounds, or ice formation on the evaporator coil.
- Type of repair(s) needed: Leak detection, sealing, and recharging the system (with the correct amount of refrigerant).
Smaller leaks are sealed with specialized patching materials like epoxy or solder. But for larger leaks, the technician may need to replace the damaged component (usually tubing).
Electric Control Failure
- Cause: Frequent on and off cycling, of wire and terminal corrosion, wear and tear on electrical components.
- Sign(s) to look out for: System not turning on, erratic operation, or components not responding.
- Type of repair(s) needed: Control board or component replacement.
If the problem is coming from a specific component, a technician can replace it. And remember, a professional has to handle wiring and installation (for safety reasons).
Faulty Sensor
- Cause: Misalignment, damage, or wiring problems.
- Sign(s) to look out for: Erratic cooling cycles or system not maintaining the desired temperature.
- Type of repair(s) needed: System calibration or replacement.
A faulty thermostat can cause sensor issues, requiring calibration or replacement. And in some cases, the entire AC system might need to be recalibrated.
If your thermostat is in direct sunlight, it should be moved ASAP. The warmth of the sun can skew temperatures.
Blocked Drainage
- Cause: Clogged drain lines or malfunctioning condensate pump.
- Sign(s) to look out for: Water leaking near the indoor unit or unusual odors.
- Type of repair(s) needed: Clearing blockages, cleaning the drain line, or replacing the condensate pump.
Humid conditions are especially taxing on drain lines. And if the drain line is severely damaged, the entire section may need to be replaced.
Bad Capacitor
- Cause: Age, power surges, or prolonged exposure to heat.
- Sign(s) to look out for: Humming sound but fan not starting, or system shutting off unexpectedly.
- Type of repair(s) needed: Replacing the faulty capacitor.
Capacitors supply and store energy in an air conditioning unit. So if it goes out, so can the whole unit!
Failing Blower Motor
- Cause: Wear and tear, lack of lubrication, or electrical issues.
- Sign(s) to look out for: Weak airflow, screeching or squealing noises, or no air coming from vents.
- Type of repair(s) needed: Bearing lubrication, part replacement (typically the capacitor), or new blower motor installation.
If the motor fails any tests or is beyond repair, replacing it is often the solution.
Bad Condenser Fan Motor or Compressor
- Cause: Age, electrical problems, or overheating.
- Sign(s) to look out for: Unit not cooling, unusual noises, or frequent cycling.
- Type of repair(s) needed: Motor and compressor replacement.
Condenser fan motors and compressors work together by moving air and cooling it to create the cooling air effect. If one of these parts goes out, the other typically has to be replaced as well.
The Process of Getting AC Issues Fixed
Typically, technicians at HVAC companies like All Seasons Heating & Cooling, Inc. follow these steps to diagnose and repair AC issues:
- Performing an initial diagnosis of your A/C unit.
- Provide a cost estimate of repairs and/or replacements.
- Ordering parts (if necessary).
- Completing the repair or replacement.
- Testing the system to check for proper operation.
And at All Seasons Heating & Cooling, Inc., we streamline this process. Our fully-stocked service vehicles and experienced technicians allow us to diagnose and repair most issues in a single visit, minimizing disruption to your daily life.
Your Vancouver WA A/C Solution
When your air conditioner isn’t working, every minute feels like an eternity in the summer heat. You need a solution that’s fast and reliable. All Seasons Heating & Cooling, Inc.’s certified technicians provide honest assessments and lasting solutions. We use advanced diagnostic tools to pinpoint issues accurately, and our upfront pricing means no surprises on your bill.
So don’t let A/C problems disrupt your comfort! Reach out to us today to get started with a service quote and experience the All Seasons difference.
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