Do you run your A/C day and night but still feel like you live in a glorified oven? Are you ready to beat your A/C unit into a glistening metallic pulp?
Before you do anything rash, check out these tips for helpful home repairs! We break down the most likely reasons why your unit isn’t blowing cool air and offer you step-by-step instructions on how to fix it. So buckle your tool belt and roll up your sleeves. It’s time to get down to business!
Check Your Thermostat
Before you do anything, check your thermostat to ensure that it’s set to cooling mode and that the temperature is set correctly. If needed, replace the batteries.
Replace Dirty Air Filters
with this Step-by-Step Guide!
Dirty air filters could be restricting airflow. It’s recommended that you change your air filters every one to three months. Below is our step-by-step DIY guide for changing A/C filters.
Step 1: Turn Off the Air Conditioner
Ensure the air conditioner is turned off before attempting to change the filter. This will prevent possible injuries and keep dust and debris from blowing into your home.
Step 2: Locate the Air Filter
The air filter is typically located in one of three places:
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- In the return air duct or grille.
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- In the air handler unit of the HVAC system.
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- Behind the front grille of a window air conditioning unit.
Step 3: Remove the Old Filter
Start by opening the filter compartment. Depending on your system, you may need to unscrew or unclip the access panel or grille.
Carefully slide out the old filter, noting the direction of the arrows on the filter frame, which indicate the airflow direction.
Step 4: Check the Filter Size
Check the dimensions filter’s dimensions. These are typically printed on the side of the filter. Make sure you purchase the correct size replacement filter.
Step 5: Install the New Filter
Ensure the new filter is facing the right direction. The arrows on the frame should point in the direction of the airflow (usually toward the blower and away from the return duct)
Carefully slide the new filter into place, ensuring it fits snugly.
Step 6: Close the Filter Compartment
Replace the access panel or grille and secure it with screws or clips as needed.
Step 7: Turn the Air Conditioner Back On
Lastly, turn the air conditioner back on.
Unblock Condenser Coils
Condenser coils are an essential part of your A/C unit. These coils are typically made of copper tubing with aluminum fins. They work with your A/C’s evaporator coils, compressor, and refrigerant to complete the cooling cycle.
Refrigerant passes through the condenser coils, releasing heat that’s been absorbed from your home into the outdoor air.
Here’s how to properly clean your coils.
Step 1: Turn Off the Power
Turn off your air conditioner using the thermostat and disconnect the outdoor unit’s power at the breaker or outdoor disconnect box.
Step 2: Access the Condenser Coils
Start by locating the coils. Condenser coils are typically found on the sides of the outdoor unit.
Next, remove the access panel. Use a screwdriver to remove the crews securing the protective panel covering the coils.
Step 3: Clear Debris
Use a brush to remove leaves, grass, and other debris from the coils and surrounding area.
Step 4: Clean the Coils
Spray a commercial condenser coil cleaner evenly over the coils. Follow the product instructions for application and wait time.
After the cleaner has set, use a garden hose to rinse the coils thoroughly, avoiding high-pressure settings that might damage the finish.
Step 5: Reassemble/ Restore Power
Reattach the protective grille or panel and secure it with screws or fasteners. Then turn the air conditioner back on at the breaker or disconnect box and at the thermostat.
Check for Refrigerant Leaks
Beyond failing to cool your home, here are three signs that your A/C might have a refrigerant leak:
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- You notice unusual noises coming from your unit, like a hissing or bubbling sound.
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- Ice build up on the evaporator coils or refrigerant lines.
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- A sudden increase in your energy bill without a change in usage.
If you think your A/C might have a leak, don’t hesitate to call a professional!
Not only does a professional technician have the right tools to locate a refrigerant leak, they also know how to deal with them. Refrigerants are a hazardous material, which professional technicians have been trained to handle and dispose of safely.
An HVAC technician can also safely repair the leak, recharge the system with the correct amount of refrigerant, and ensure there are no other underlying issues.
When to Call a Pro
In addition to taking care of hazardous materials and complex problems, professional technicians can be called on to service your entire A/C system.
So if you don’t feel comfortable cleaning coils or replacing dirty filters — or you’d simply rather kick back and relax with a cold drink in your hand while someone does it for you — you know who to call!