Five Things to Watch Out for to Avoid Air Conditioner Service

As summer nears, air conditioner service should be something that crosses your mind a little more often as you ponder your whole home comfort. Of course there are a number of things to search for when thinking through air conditioner service, but a few issues are more typical than others as you get ready to ramp up your air conditioner use for the season.

No matter when you last had your air conditioner service completed, make certain to keep these five potential issues in mind when your air conditioner is on the fritz.

1.     Leaking refrigerant

There are a number of things that can cause low refrigerant levels. It may be due to an undercharge during installation or the system could have developed a leak over time. Adding refrigerant to an already leaky air conditioner is similar to using a band aid on the Hoover Dam. It’s not going to cut it. Leaks should only be fixed by trained experts like the ones at Three Rivers Heating and Cooling in Portland so that you can make certain your system is working at its best. Having that simple air conditioner service completed means that you’ll fix the leak and have the refrigerant charge match the exact specifications of the manufacturer, which provides you with top performance and efficiency.

2.     Lack of maintenance

Allowing filters and coils to build up with dirt and grime will not only decrease your system’s efficiency, but it may cause a host of other issues if they’re not addressed. Arranging routine maintenance on your air conditioner with Three Rivers Heating and Cooling means that you’ll have a system offering you comfort when you desire it most.

3.     Running too many cycles

The air conditioner fan controls and compressor are most prone to wear, and if you have an air conditioner that cycles on and off routinely, you’ll likely have this issue. You’ll also want your service provider to view the wiring to make sure there isn’t any corrosion and that the wiring job itself is done correctly. Cycling on and off during cooling season could also be a sign that your system is not sized correctly, and if that is the case you will also notice your home could have high humidity issues.  Because there are several problems to look at, you want to be sure you’re dealing with someone as reliable and experienced like the experts at Three Rivers Heating and Cooling.

4.     Sensor malfunctions

Air conditioners and their thermostat sensors are another common problem that can lead to air conditioner service or AC repair. Thermostat sensors, usually found behind the control panel, measure the temperature of air coming into the coil. This helps your air conditioner know whether it needs to turn on or stay off. So if the sensor is disturbed you could be left with a system that cycles nonstop.

5.     Drain lines clogging

Condensation is made by your air conditioner during the cooling process, and your system is created to take care of its own drainage. If the drain becomes clogged you may be subjected to mold or mildew issues, which can lead to an entirely different set of issues.

No matter the age of your air conditioner, there will always be problems that can arise when it is used a lot. Summer is when your system should be running at its best, so give the pros at Three Rivers Heating and Cooling in Portland a call at (503) 739-5400.