When temperatures soar in San Diego and your air conditioning system chooses to stop working with little to no warning, you need a quick solution. Although most air conditioning problems require the knowledge of an HVAC professional, homeowners can also troubleshoot some issues.
To help you stay comfortable in your San Diego home, consider these five common HVAC problems and how to fix them.
Clogged Drain
If there’s too much humidity in your home, the condensate from the evaporator coil is collected in the condensate pan, and then poured into an indoor or outdoor drain. If either the pan or the drain is clogged with debris, water in the pan will back up and shut down your A/C unit. Make sure your A/C system is clean and properly mounted both indoor and outdoor.
Dirty Filter
A dirty filter is caused by dust buildup in the evaporator coil, preventing airflow and reducing absorption of heat. Additionally, dust buildup on the fan and compressor can cause a premature system failure. Inspect the filter after 30 days and change it when it’s caked with dust to cut down allergens.
Leaking Refrigerant
Check your air conditioner’s refrigerant levels regularly. If it’s too low, it may have been slightly undercharged during installation. Contact a professional to locate any leaks and to repair and recharge the refrigerant levels as indicated by the manufacturer.
Broken Thermostat
If your air conditioner is regularly running, but your home is still hot, check the thermostat. A malfunctioning thermostat will indicate a lower temperature different from your home’s actual temperature. If resetting it doesn’t work, contact a technician.
Electronic Control and Sensor Failure
These are probably the first elements of an A/C system to wear out, particularly if your unit is oversized. Check the connections, and ensure they’re still in place.