Air conditioners are typically very durable and reliable systems. They work hard to keep our homes safe and comfortable on Davenport’s hottest summer days. But like any appliance or machinery, they can occasionally develop issues, some of which are more common than others.
In our latest blog post, we’ll discuss the five most common air conditioner problems that residents of Davenport, IA, might experience.
Dirty Air Filter
Air conditioners use filters to prevent dirt, dust, and other debris from circulating throughout your home. Over time, this causes them to clog. When this happens, you may notice trouble such as:
- Reduced Airflow: This is the most common symptom of a dirty air filter. As the filter clogs with dust and debris, it restricts the flow of air through the system.
- Increased Noise: A dirty air filter can cause the AC unit to work harder to pull air through the system. This can lead to louder operation and strange noises coming from the unit.
- Poor Indoor Air Quality: A dirty air filter will not be able to trap dust, pollen, and other allergens as effectively. This can lead to poor indoor air quality, which can trigger allergies and asthma symptoms.
Dirty air filters are among the most common air conditioner problems, but they are also one of the easiest and simplest to address. We still recommend having a professional resolve a dirty air filter, however, as they can ensure that the filter is replaced correctly and inspect the system for any other potential issues.
Refrigerant Leaks
AC systems use refrigerant as part of the cooling process. Its job is to absorb heat from indoor air and transfer it to the compressor, where the heat is then released outside.
While refrigerant is initially a gas, it becomes a liquid when it is cooled or compressed. Refrigerant leaks can develop due to coils corroding, wear to the joints and connections, aging seals and gaskets, and more. Some ways to identify refrigerant leaks include:
- Decreased Cooling Efficiency: With less refrigerant available to absorb heat, the AC unit struggles to cool your home, leading to higher indoor temperatures and reduced comfort.
- Increased Energy Bills: The system will have to work harder and run longer to achieve the desired temperature, resulting in increased energy consumption and higher electricity bills.
- Frozen Coils: Low refrigerant levels can cause the evaporator coils to freeze, further impairing the cooling process and potentially damaging the system.
Failing Blower Motor
Blower motors control the fan that is responsible for circulating air throughout your ducts and into your living spaces. Most commonly, blower motors fail because of wear and usage. Bearings can wear out and internal components can degrade, leading to reduced performance or complete failure.
Because blower motors are responsible for circulating air throughout the home, the most common sign of a failing blower motor is poor airflow. As the motor begins to struggle, you might also notice unusual noises such as squealing or grinding, indicating that the bearings or other internal parts are worn.
Bad Capacitor
Capacitors deliver power to the compressor and fan motors. When the capacitor isn’t working properly, neither of those components will either.
If you’re dealing with a bad capacitor, you might notice that the air conditioner is not turning on, taking longer to start, or shutting off abruptly. You might also hear a clicking sound as the unit struggles to start.
A bad capacitor can even cause your entire system to overheat, leading to further stress and damage to the system.
Clogged Condensate Drain
The condensate drain line is responsible for removing the moisture collected from the air by the evaporator coil. Over time, this drain can become clogged with dirt, algae, or other debris, leading to water backing up into the system.
A clogged condensate drain can cause water damage, increased humidity levels, and unpleasant odors in your home. In severe cases, it can also lead to system shutdowns and extensive repairs.
Call on Schebler for AC Repairs in Davenport, IA
Air conditioning systems are complex and made up of many different components, each with its own important job. If just a single component isn’t working properly, your entire system can suffer. Fortunately, Schebler Heating and Air can help.Our team has provided the Davenport, IA, area with reliable HVAC services since 1895. Get in touch with our experienced team today to schedule an appointment for air conditioning repair in Davenport and the Quad Cities.