The middle of summer is just about the worst time to have your air conditioner start to malfunction. But that tends to be the time when it’s most likely to happen. The added strain on the system due to increased demand makes it more likely for parts to fail. One of the first signs that an air conditioner is malfunctioning in some way is a noticeable decline in output. If your air conditioner seems to be having trouble putting out enough cool air, there could be a couple of different reasons for it. Let’s have a look at some of those reasons below.
Refrigerant Leaks
Refrigerant is a catch-all term for one of a variety of different types of fluids, some of which are used in air conditioners. The system evaporates refrigerant to absorb heat from the air in the home, then condenses that same refrigerant in the outdoor unit to vent the collected heat outside. This continues in a cycle, with the refrigerant being recycled back and forth to cool the house.
A refrigerant leak drops the level of available refrigerant in the system, causing a corresponding drop in the air conditioner’s output capacity. If the refrigerant level drops too low, the system will eventually break down entirely. If your air conditioner is circulating air just fine, but it’s not as cold as it should be, you might have a refrigerant leak somewhere.
Air Handler Malfunctions
The air handler is the part of the air conditioner responsible for circulating air throughout the home during operation. It’s basically a large motor with a fan attached to it. Without the air handler, the air conditioner would be unable to actually move any air at all. There are a number of different ways that the air handler might malfunction. A short circuit could disable the motor. Failing bearings could cause the system to overheat and burn out. Regardless, if your air conditioner doesn’t seem to be blowing any air at all, it might be because of a problem with the air handler.
Clogged Air Filter
The air filter sits in the air return duct of the system, and protects the air conditioner from dust and debris usually found in a home’s ducts. The filter has no way to get rid of the debris it collects, though, which means that it will become clogged if it isn’t replaced often enough. A clogged air filter will prevent air from entering the system, which means less will be available for the air conditioner to circulate. If your air conditioner seems to be having trouble circulating enough air, and you haven’t had your air filter changed in a while, you might want to check that out first.
Comfy Heating & Air Conditioning Inc. offers a full range of air conditioning repair services in San Ramon, CA. If your air conditioner is in need of professional repairs, we can help. Contact us today for an appointment. We’ll make sure your air conditioner is in the best possible shape to serve you this summer.