How does an air conditioner work?

Simply put, an air conditioner moves heat from inside your home to the outside. Excess heat is absorbed by refrigerant and pumped through a system of pipes to an outside coil, where a fan transfers the heat into the outdoor air. With the heat removed, the indoor air is cooled.

What’s wrong with my air conditioner?

If the system isn’t running at all, it could be something as simple as a blown fuse or an improperly set thermostat, or as major as a broken compressor. If the system is running but not cooling properly, the problem might be a low refrigerant level. If you hear odd noises, your compressor might be going out. A certified technician should be able to quickly diagnose the problem.

How much water does my air conditioning system produce?

Most air conditioning systems produce 5-9 gallons of water per day. The exact amount varies based on several factors, including outdoor humidity level and thermostat setting. If this excess water doesn’t drain normally, you could face major damage to your air conditioning system — and your home.

What causes a condensate water leak problem?

Leaks generally occur when the evaporator coil drain line becomes clogged, and moisture removed from the air during the cooling process backs up and overflows. Because the evaporator coil is normally located in a closet or attic, leaks aren’t always discovered right away

Drain line clogs can be caused by a variety of causes, including algae build-up, crimped drain lines, airborne debris, attic insulation, house settling, and the actions of rodents, snakes or other animals.

How often should I replace my filter?

Standard throwaway filters should be changed monthly. High efficiency pleated or media filters can last as long as 6 months.

When should I replace my air conditioning system?

It’s often a judgment call. Like a car, once repairs aren’t cost-effective to make it’s probably time to consider purchasing a new system. Pay particular attention to your compressor — once it starts to go, you might be better off buying a new unit than trying to repair the old one.

Should I repair my own air conditioner?

No! Today’s cooling systems are much more complicated than they once were, and without proper training you could cause serious damage to your unit. Federal regulations also require proper disposal of refrigerants. The best course of action is to call an EPA-certified technician at the first sign of trouble.

Have other questions? Please contact us!