If your air conditioner is causing you to suffer from a hot and humid home, you should seek help from an AC repair expert. Read on to learn more about common issues, how to avoid getting ripped off, and how to recharge refrigerant. Also, keep in mind the safety hazards associated with faulty air conditioning units. By following the tips in this article, you will be able to save on the cost of a professional repair.
Cost Of Repairs
Whether it’s the air conditioner’s evaporator coil that needs replacing or the electrical circuit board, repairing the evaporator coil will cost you anywhere from $200 to $1,000. The circuit board is the electronic system that runs the AC. If the board malfunctions, the air conditioner may not turn on or overheat. Without the circuit board, the air conditioner won’t run. It may also need to be repaired if the thermostat is faulty.
Before scheduling AC repairs, always ask for an estimate. Most technicians will give you an estimate if they feel repairs are necessary, but you’ll need to decide if the cost is worth it. One way to figure out the cost of a repair is to apply the “Rule of 5000,” which states that a repair should cost more than 5,000 times the age of the AC. If the repair estimate is more than 5,000, you know you’ve been taken advantage of.
Common Issues
Air conditioners run frequently during hot weather, but they should be shut off periodically. An AC that won’t turn off needs to be repaired so that its vital components are protected and your energy bill won’t skyrocket. The problem could have several causes. One issue could be with the thermostat or the compressor. Another common problem involves the electrical parts, which require professional repair. Read on to learn about common AC repair issues. Listed below are some of the most common problems.
Compressor failure – If you have a compressor with a noisy fan, you might have a failing compressor. This component pushes the refrigerant through the system, but it can fail and cause the room temperature to rise. You can also check for a failing compressor by pushing the fan with a long screwdriver or a thin stick. If the compressor still doesn’t spin, the problem may be with the capacitor. A new compressor may solve the problem, but it will be a costly task.
Refrigerant Recharge
To recharge the refrigerant in your air conditioning system, you need to find the service port located behind the engine. This is a metal wall that leads to a larger diameter pipe. The recharge hose is attached to the service port with a quick-connect fitting. Push the recharge hose into the service port until the trigger turns red. Then, pull the trigger to release the refrigerant into the atmosphere. This procedure is usually done by a professional. The process can take several hours.
If you are not a mechanic, you can also buy a recharge kit from a local auto parts store. These recharge kits contain the correct amount of refrigerant and are available in packages of 12 to 22 ounces. Some recharge kits also include a reusable recharge hose and an inline pressure gauge to ensure proper delivery of refrigerant. Make sure to use the correct amount of refrigerant, as the wrong amount could lead to further damage.
Safety Hazards
Many workplace accidents occur when employees fail to follow the standard safety procedures. Aside from falling, there are many other risks of working on or around air conditioning equipment. This includes working in confined spaces and in heights, which can be hazardous in bad weather. Working with hot or cold moving components can result in burns and misjudgment. Follow these safety precautions to protect your workers and keep customers safe. Here are some common safety hazards in AC repair:
Electrical hazards are also a concern. It is not always possible to reach electrical wiring within an HVAC unit, which may pose a potential danger. However, you can easily check the thermostat wires for frayed or loose wires. When working on your HVAC system, it is important to follow all lockout procedures to ensure the safety of everyone. The same is true for other electrical wires. You should not let any unqualified individual work on your unit.
When To Call an AC Repair Company
Air conditioning systems can break down at any time, and knowing when to call an AC repair company is essential to ensure your comfort. While it may be tempting to try to fix the problem yourself, it is unlikely to end up with a good result and will end up costing you more money in the long run. Other people delay calling for help until their cooling system stops working. The best course of action is to hire a professional for the job. Warm air coming from the vents may indicate a compressor problem or low refrigerant levels. Alternatively, warm air coming from the attic may indicate a leaking duct or electrical wiring. A professional AC repair company will be able to diagnose the problem quickly and make a quick diagnosis. If these symptoms persist, it may be time to call in a professional AC repair company. However, it may not be that simple.
