Your AC system needs to run efficiently for your home to cool properly. But if you notice issues like low refrigerant levels, strange noises, or even a complete loss of cooling power, it may be time to contact an AC repair professional.

Begin by flipping the breaker to your AC off. Then, examine the components for signs of problems. Contact Ausco Air Heating & Air Conditioning for professional help.

The compressor is the heart of your AC system. It’s responsible for compressing your refrigerant gasses from a liquid state to a vapor state so they can be passed to the evaporator coil to remove heat from your home’s air. The compressor can have many problems, including oil stains and refrigerant leaks. These issues can lead to a variety of cooling problems. It’s important to have these problems fixed promptly so your system can continue operating properly.

One way to tell if the compressor is faulty is by feeling its temperature. If the airflow from the vents is weak or warm, it may indicate that a problem exists with the blower motor, cabin air filter, or ductwork. In these cases, the best solution is to install a new filter or have a professional examine the ductwork.

Another sign of a bad compressor is if it trips the circuit breaker. This indicates that the compressor is not getting enough power to perform its job and could soon begin leaking. A compressor that is leaking can also damage the condenser coil, which will also require AC repair services.

To avoid costly AC repairs, you should regularly inspect your system for signs of problems. Start with the compressor, which is located near the engine. Look for oil stains or refrigerant residue, and check the condenser for bent fins and other debris that could obstruct airflow. It’s also a good idea to check the air filters in your home and keep them clean. Also, be sure to clear any furniture away from your vents to allow for proper airflow.

You’ll also want to keep an eye out for a disconnect box outside your house. This is the box that cuts power to the condenser in an emergency so it doesn’t get damaged. If you notice that the disconnect box is open, it’s time to call for an AC repair.

Blower Motor

The blower motor in your AC system is responsible for circulating air within your home. It pulls air in from the outside and recirculates it through the HVAC system at different speeds to control air flow.

If your blower motor is damaged or not functioning properly, it may affect the operation of the entire system. Your home could experience decreased energy efficiency, poor air circulation, and high utility bills. However, if you keep up with regular maintenance and inspections conducted by professional technicians, such as those at Logan Services, your blower motor can last longer and operate to its full potential.

Typically located in your furnace enclosure, the blower motor is a large fan-shaped motor with a spinning wheel and a shaft that holds the fan. It is connected to a control board and receives low voltage signals from the thermostat to turn on. Once the signal reaches the control board, it sends 120 or 240 volts to the motor to start running.

When a blower motor is working well, it should spin smoothly with little resistance. If you notice any resistance or noise, this may indicate that your motor is faulty and needs to be replaced.

If you are noticing that your blower motor is turning on and off frequently, this indicates that it is overheating. Overheating can damage the motor or cause it to stop working entirely. In some cases, you may notice that there is a burning smell coming from your vents. If you do, shut down your system immediately to prevent overheating and call a professional right away.

Another sign that your blower motor is faulty is if it doesn’t spin at all. In some cases, you might be able to manually spin the fan by hand. If it doesn’t spin, it’s likely that the bearings inside the motor have worn out. This can lead to overheating and other problems with the motor.

Contactor

The contactor is a vital part of your AC system that provides and cuts off electrical power to the compressor, blower motor, and many other electrical components. It works like a gatekeeper, allowing electricity to flow through your air conditioner when your thermostat calls for cooling and shutting off the flow of current when the unit is turned off.

A faulty contactor may show signs such as your AC unit refusing to turn on or staying on continuously. A humming sound that doesn’t stop even when you manually push the contactor button is another sign that it needs to be replaced. The contactor may also have visible sparks or electrical arcing. If the plastic casing on the contactor starts melting, it’s time to get a professional in for an inspection and replacement.

In order to start your air conditioning, the contactor brings high voltage through a magnetic action between its two sets of contact points. This causes the contact points to snap together and pull maximum current (amps several times greater than their regular running current). Repeated high-peak current draws will eventually cause these contacts to burn and pit, preventing them from making a full connection with each other and causing the system to stay on.

To avoid this, your HVAC installation expert will inspect the contactor regularly and replace it as needed. Typically, this is an easy procedure that can be completed without dismantling your unit. Your AC contractor will open the disconnect on the contactor and use a multimeter to make sure the contacts are open before connecting the new one in place.

Besides checking the contactor, your professional will also look for bugs and debris that could have crawled inside the coils and caused electrical shorts. Ants, spiders, earwigs, and other pests love to hide in these parts, which can easily lead to the transfer of unwanted electricity from one end of the contactor to the other. The professional can also shield the contactor to reduce the chance of these creatures getting in.

Condenser Coil

The condenser coil is an important part of the AC system. Think of it as the highways that enable heat transfer in your AC. It is made up of aluminum fins that increase its surface area for more efficient heating. Refrigerant enters the coil as a gas, absorbs the heat inside, and then releases it outside where it cools into a liquid. The liquid refrigerant then moves back inside to repeat the cycle and keep your home cool.

Dirty coils hinder this cycle. The dirt and dust that build up on the coil reduce airflow, which causes your AC to work harder. It also increases energy consumption and costs, so it is best to schedule regular cleanings for your AC unit.

During an AC maintenance visit, the HVAC technician will clean your condenser coils to remove any dust or debris that has built up. A regular cleaning helps to improve performance, efficiency, and prolongs the lifespan of the unit.

The coil is exposed to the elements, so it’s prone to being dirty. Yard clippings, leaves, and other outdoor debris can make their way to the coils, as well as airborne pollutants and dust. Cleaning them is easy with a brush and a hose. However, it is important to use an appropriate cleaner for your coils and follow any instructions for dilution or application.

Over time, the aluminum fins on your coil can bend. This is caused by a lawn mower, weed eater, hail, or even just poking at them. The bent fins block airflow and decrease the efficiency of your AC, so you should have them straightened by a professional with a tool called a fin comb.

When your AC condenser coil isn’t functioning properly, it may need to be replaced. A faulty coil can leak refrigerant, which damages the compressor and other components of your system. If you notice that your coil is leaking or has holes, it’s best to contact an experienced AC repair service immediately to avoid further damage and higher costs. If the coil is beyond repair, you might need to replace your entire AC system instead of just replacing the coil.