How to Identify and Fix Air Conditioner Problems Yourself
As with any electrical appliance, air conditioners are prone to breaking down at some point or another. Because air conditioners have many moving parts, it’s only natural to assume that one part will stop working, or completely break down after continuous usage. Fortunately, you can diagnose and fix the majority of problems yourself, even if you don’t read air conditioner reviews. For everything else, you may need to take out a servicing contract, or visit a professional to have them rectify the problem.
Below, you’ll learn how to identify and tackle some of the most common air conditioner problems. However, it’s important to note that you should only carry out maintenance if you feel confident in doing so. If you feel that you aren’t confident enough to identify and fix any issues yourself, it’s recommended to visit a specialist immediately.
Air Filtration Systems
The most common culprit for air conditioners under performing is the air filter. A poorly working air filter can usually be identified if you notice that ice has begun building up around the outside of the unit. If you notice any ice buildup in or around the appliance, immediately disconnect the AC unit and keep it at room temperature to allow the ice to thaw and melt. Once the ice has thawed, you can proceed to check that your filter is clean. Additionally, check to see if the registers are open, and that the area around the evaporator/coil is clear. Sometimes, purchasing a new filter may not be necessary. If you visit your local DIY shop, you’ll be able to buy compressed air (air in a can) that can be used to remove the dust from the filter.
Cleaning the Coils
The second-most common culprit for poor-performing air conditioners is the coils. It’s of vital importance to carry out regular and routine coil maintenance. To get started, simply visit your local DIY shop and purchase a high-quality coil cleaner. From there, proceed to clean the coils as per the recommendations on the cleaner you have purchased. Typically speaking, you will need to clean the coils twice every season. As with most devices, your coils will last longer if you take care of the other essential parts (filtration system, etc).
Condensate Pan Tablets
Another essential part of the air conditioner is the condensate drain. To clean your condensate drain, simply place condensate pan tablets within the evaporator pan. This should be done two or three times a season. These tablets are often hard to come by, and you may need to ring the manufacturer of your appliance to get advice as to where to purchase them. Usually, you can purchase them from Amazon or other online retailers, but it’s unlikely that you’ll find them in a local shop.
When You Might Need an Air Conditioner Servicing Contract
If you feel uncomfortable with diagnosing the air conditioner yourself, then you could consider investing in a servicing contract. You can choose to enter into a contract with the manufacturer of your appliance, or simply with any other reputable AC specialist within your local area. Typically, these contracts cover every aspect of your air conditioner, and you’ll be able to use them to get any problems fixed almost immediately.
Sometimes, it’s worthwhile taking out a contract if the appliance is several years old, and you’re under the impression that parts could start to fail anytime soon. With newer models, you won’t need to take out a contract because you’re usually covered by a one, two, or three-year warranty program. However, it’s important to note that parts such as the filter aren’t covered by the warranty.
