Air Conditioning Repair Service in 90039 Atwater Village, CA

Common Atwater Village AC Repair Troubleshooting Tips

If your AC isn’t blowing cold air, don’t panic just yet. Take a look at some of the most common AC issues that could be the culprit. Often, a quick fix from a technician is all it takes to get your home cool and comfortable again. When repairs are necessary, it’s typically due to one of these components.

The Air Filter Troubleshooting

Air conditioners rely on filters to capture allergens and dust from the ductwork, ensuring the air circulating in your home is clean and cool. To maintain optimal air quality and system efficiency, it’s essential to check, clean, or replace your AC filters regularly. The frequency of this maintenance depends on your AC model and the dust and pollen levels both inside and outside your home. Keeping your filters in top condition not only enhances air quality but also prolongs the lifespan of your AC unit.

Breakers, Capacitors, and Fuses Troubleshooting

Breakers and fuses play a crucial role in protecting your AC’s motors and compressors from overheating, acting as a safeguard against costly damage. If a breaker or fuse blows, it serves as a fail-safe, allowing for a simple replacement rather than a full motor replacement, getting your AC back up and running quickly.

Capacitors are another essential component in motor function, with start and run capacitors providing the necessary electricity to initiate and sustain motor operation. If a capacitor fails, the motor won’t run. When diagnosing a non-functional motor, an HVAC technician will typically inspect the breakers, capacitors, and fuses to identify the cause of the failure. Regular maintenance and prompt attention to these components can prevent more extensive and expensive repairs.

Compressor & Contacts Troubleshooting

The compressor is the heart of your AC system, pushing coolant through the system to transfer heat from inside your home to the outside. This process is what keeps your home cool. If the compressor isn’t working, the coolant can’t remove the heat, leaving your home warm.

Many compressor problems are caused by having too much or too little coolant. If there’s too much (overcharged), it can build up in the compressor and cause it to fail. If there’s too little (undercharged), the compressor may overheat and stop working.

Additionally, the electrical contacts need to be in good condition. If they’re worn or damaged, the blower, compressor, or condenser won’t start.

If you’re experiencing these issues, you’ll need a service technician to inspect and repair your compressor. Regular maintenance can help prevent these problems and keep your AC running smoothly.

Coolant Troubleshooting

Air conditioners use coolant to move heat from inside your home to the outside, keeping your rooms cool. If there’s a coolant leak, the AC won’t work properly, and your home won’t stay cool. To prevent coolant leaks, have an AC technician check your unit every year. It’s important to choose a trained technician because an overcharged system can also cause problems. Regular inspections help keep your AC running smoothly and your home comfortable.

Drainage Lines and Pans Troubleshooting

Clogged drainage lines filled with lint, dust, and pet hair can cause blockages, leading to overfilled drain pans and potential water damage. To prevent this, have a trained professional check and clean your drain lines regularly. Regular maintenance ensures your AC runs efficiently and helps avoid costly repairs.

Evaporator and Condenser Coils Troubleshooting

Evaporator coils are a key part of your AC system, responsible for creating the cold air that cools your rooms through the air ducts. Over time, these coils can rust and may need replacing. To extend the life of your evaporator coils, regular cleaning and inspection are essential.

Condenser coils, located in your outdoor AC unit, can get dirty from pollen and dust in the air. To keep them functioning efficiently, clean the coils yearly with a garden hose. If that doesn’t do the job, consider hiring an AC expert to clean them with specialized condenser coil cleaning agents. Regular maintenance of both coils ensures your AC system runs smoothly and effectively cools your home.

Thermostat Troubleshooting

An AC system cycles on and off based on your thermostat settings. However, if the thermostat is dirty or not properly level, it can cause your AC to run too frequently or not enough, leading to inefficiency and discomfort. Regularly cleaning and checking your thermostat can help maintain optimal AC performance.

Don’t Let the Idea of an AC Replacement Scare You

AC repairs often save homeowners a lot of money, which is why many prefer to repair rather than replace their units. We hope that’s all it takes, but if it’s not, we’re here to help you make the best decision for your budget and needs.

Ask your technician how easily parts for your AC model can be sourced. If parts are hard to come by, do you want to risk waiting weeks for them during the hottest days of summer? A technician’s advice can help you decide if repairs are worth it or if it’s time to consider a replacement.

At Pacific Appliance Repair Services, we’re here to keep you cool all summer long. Now is the perfect time to address your AC needs. Whether your system just needs a cleaning and inspection, or something more, we’ll work with you to find the right solution.