To paraphrase Thomas Paine, “these are the times that try” your HVAC system; months of very hot, humid days, interspersed with a few weeks of heat waves with extremely hot temperatures. Such extreme temperatures put stress on your HVAC system and expose any weakness in key components. It is no wonder that AC repairs and AC replacements peak during the months of July and August.
Air Filter Changes. The efficiency of air filters in cleaning indoor air is also problematic. When the filter becomes completely covered, it restricts the airflow that can pass through. Airflow is very necessary for air conditioning, so when the amount of air is reduced, it reduces the amount of cooling an air conditioner can achieve. This becomes very evident during hot summer days. Make sure to change the air filter quarterly.
Evaporator Buildup. The air passes through the air filter and across the evaporator coil. The evaporator coil is very cold, so excess humidity from indoor air begins to condense on the coil and drip onto the drain pan, and is allowed to drain away. Any dust or pollen that passes the air filter is likely to collect on the evaporator coils and create a wet mess. The wet dust and pollen inhibit the transfer of the heat from the air and the cool from the coils. The mess needs to be cleaned away.
Condenser Coating. The outdoor air conditioner component is called the condenser unit. While the walls appear solid, they are actually a network of tubes and fins. A large, central fan draws air through the network to cool the refrigerant gas inside. The network acts as another air filter, since pollen, dust, and debris get captured on the tubes and fins. These things need to be washed off of the condenser walls to ensure adequate cooling can take place.
Electrical Weakness. An air conditioner is controlled by very sensitive sensors and switching devices. Common air conditioner use wears these control mechanisms. Eventually, the wear weakens their ability to sense and direct electrical flow. Component weakness reduces an air conditioner’s effectiveness when the family needs air conditioning the most. Special tools and a trained individual is required to detect problems with air conditioner controls.
Some problems that may occur with your air conditioner:
Call our trusted technicians to inspect and make repairs. Do not delay, since the demand for AC repairs may mean waiting for an available technician. Remember, these problems will not go away by themselves and can get worse over time.
It’s clear that your HVAC system is under immense pressure during peak summer heat, and ignoring the warning signs can lead to major, costly breakdowns. By being proactive and addressing common issues like dirty filters and coils, you can prevent small problems from becoming emergencies. Don’t wait until your system fails completely; a timely repair can restore your home’s comfort and keep your HVAC system running efficiently all season long.
For more information about R.M. Mullinix and our AC repair College Station services, schedule an appointment or visit our AC repair and maintenance information page.