If your AC is making strange noises or leaking refrigerant, you should consider calling a professional right away. This will allow them to inspect your system and determine if AC Repair Round Rock is the best option or if it’s time for an upgrade.
If your unit is inefficient, however, the long-term costs of repairs can add up to more than the cost of a new model. This may make replacing it the more economical choice.
1. Capacitors
Capacitors are among the most vital parts of any AC system. They provide the initial power jolt to get the compressor motor of the HVAC unit going, after which they supply it with a low-voltage energy supply throughout the cooling cycle.
When capacitors wear out, the cooling performance of your air conditioner suffers dramatically. Fortunately, there are certain bad AC capacitor symptoms you can look out for to identify the problem.
One of the most common signs of a bad AC capacitor is a strange humming sound or burning smell coming from your outdoor unit. The problem is likely caused by the capacitor being overworked as it struggles to meet the demand of the compressor. This puts extra strain on the rest of the system, leading to further problems and costly repairs.
You may also notice a sudden increase in your electric bills. This is due to the capacitor failing to deliver adequate power as needed to run the compressor, fans and other components of your HVAC unit.
Another common symptom of a bad AC capacitor is the presence of leaking electrolyte fluid. This fluid can be easily spotted since it is usually oily in color and texture. The fluid can leak from the capacitor casing or from other electrical components inside your air conditioning unit.
In addition to leaking electrolyte fluid, bad AC capacitors often exhibit physical signs of damage such as swelling or bulging. This is caused by internal pressure buildup and is a sign that the capacitor is in need of replacement.
Homeowners should never attempt to replace a bad AC capacitor on their own as this can be dangerous and lead to more serious damage. Instead, hire a professional technician to handle the task. This way, you can be sure that the replacement is done according to manufacturer specifications and preserving any warranties on your HVAC equipment.
Performing a capacitor replacement requires the use of special tools and equipment. A professional will use a multimeter, which is an electronic device that can determine capacitance and other electrical measurements.
2. Contactors
Located inside your outdoor condenser unit, the contactor is like a switch that controls the flow of electrical current to your compressor and condenser fan motors. If these components aren’t getting the power they need to perform properly, your AC will start to show signs of failure.
One of the most common signs of a bad AC contactor is pitting or excessive charring on the contacts. Heavy air conditioner use can cause this deterioration, which makes the contacts less effective at creating a reliable electrical connection.
This can lead to intermittent power and disruptive noises. For instance, your AC may begin making humming or chattering noises, especially when it tries to turn on.
If the symptom persists, it’s time to use a multimeter to check for proper voltage at the contactor’s coil terminals. This will help you pinpoint the issue and make a quick and easy repair.
To do this, first shut off your air conditioner by turning off the thermostat and breaker panel to prevent electrical shocks. Then, remove the side cover of the air conditioner to expose its black rectangular object where colored wires are connected. Take a picture of it so that you can reference it later when you take the cover off again.
Once you’ve removed the side cover of your AC, carefully remove the wires from the contactor and remove the screw at its center. Once the screws are removed, the contactor should pop up, revealing a metal strip with holes in it.
Using a screwdriver, you can open the contactor. It’s important to note that this is not a job for amateurs, as the contactor contains high-voltage electricity that can shock you or even kill you if mishandled. Ensure you have the help of an experienced technician to do this task safely. Keeping up with your knowledge of the function of an AC contactor, recognizing scams and committing to regular maintenance will save you money, avoid unnecessary repairs and improve your home’s comfort. Contact a trusted HVAC company to schedule an inspection. They’ll be happy to answer any questions you might have.
3. Blower Motor
Your blower motor pushes heated or cooled air through your dashboard vents based on your climate system settings and the fan speed you select. If you have to adjust the fan speed a lot to get a sufficient amount of air flow, this is a sign that your blower motor is starting to fail.
Another sign that your blower motor is nearing the end of its life is if it starts emitting strange sounds. Often, these sounds will sound like screeching or squealing and can indicate that certain parts of the blower motor are struggling to operate properly. If you hear any new odd noises coming from your HVAC system, it’s important to call an AC repair technician immediately to have the blower motor checked.
A faulty blower motor can put extra strain on the other components of your HVAC system, which can lead to overheating, frequent breakdowns, and high energy bills. The blower motor is responsible for moving air inside your home or ductwork, so it can accumulate a lot of dust and debris over time. When this debris clogs the bearings, it causes the blower motor to overwork and wear out prematurely.
The aging process also takes its toll on your blower motor, which can cause it to overheat and even stop functioning completely. When you’re faced with this problem, replacing your old blower motor is the best way to improve your HVAC system’s performance, reduce energy costs, and maintain healthy indoor air quality.
If you notice a lack of airflow from your vents, there are many reasons this could occur. It may be as simple as a clogged air filter, but it could be an indication of a failing blower motor. An AC repair specialist can evaluate your system, clean the accumulated debris from the motor, and help you find the right replacement for your home.
A new blower motor is an expensive replacement, but it can save you money in the long run by improving your energy efficiency and reducing your heating and cooling costs. Before installing a new blower motor, you should disconnect power to the unit and remove any panels or covers that allow for easy access. Then, use a multimeter to measure the voltage and continuity of the motor terminals to make sure they’re still functional.
4. Evaporator Coil
The evaporator coil is one of the most important air conditioning parts in your system. This is where the refrigerant absorbs heat from your home’s air as it passes over, creating cool air that gets sent throughout your ductwork. Unfortunately, the copper pipes inside your evaporator coil can deteriorate and leak. This problem needs to be fixed right away, or your AC may fail to cool as effectively.
The best way to prevent a leaking evaporator coil is through regular maintenance. Changing your air filter often and having routine professional maintenance can keep dust and dirt from building up in the coil. These actions can also help to keep the coil ice-free, and they can also help to keep moisture levels in check.
However, even with regular maintenance, an evaporator coil will eventually need to be replaced. The most common sign of this is a sudden increase in your energy bills, as the coil will need to work harder to compensate for its lost efficiency. If your energy bills are rising, it’s definitely time to call for a professional to examine the coil.
Another sign of an evaporator coil that is nearing the end of its life is strange odors in your home. A musty smell or an odor similar to chloroform could indicate a mold problem in the coil. If you notice these odors, it’s definitely time to call for repair, or the coil could completely fail and need to be replaced.
A hissing or bubbling noise coming from your air conditioner can also signal a faulty evaporator coil. This issue is usually caused by a lack of refrigerant, which can lead to a number of problems. A qualified technician will be able to diagnose and fix the problem quickly, so that your air conditioner can continue cooling effectively.
A faulty evaporator coil will need to be replaced by a new, properly-sized coil. On average, it costs between $600 and $2000 to replace the coil, including the cost of labor. This cost will vary depending on the brand and quality of the new coil, as well as regional pricing differences.