By A well-functioning air conditioning unit is one of the keys to a comfortable home. However, like any machine, an AC requires regular service to keep it running at peak performance. A professional HVAC technician has the skills and experience to diagnose problems, service the equipment and restore it to working condition. The process usually involves an inspection, repair and cleaning of the various parts of a home’s cooling system. While a homeowner can perform some maintenance on their own, it is generally recommended that homeowners hire an expert to do repairs and replacements.
When a home’s AC repair costs exceed the cost of replacing the entire unit, it may make more sense to simply replace the equipment rather than try to fix it. The rule of thumb is that a repair should cost 50 percent or less than the cost of a new unit. This is a good rule to use as a guideline, but the decision is ultimately up to the homeowner.
If a homeowner is noticing unusually high energy bills, it’s important to have the AC unit inspected by a professional. This can be an indicator of many problems, including dirty air filters, restricted ductwork and low refrigerant levels. In some cases, a simple energy bill increase can be fixed by turning off the AC unit for a few hours and allowing it to thaw out.
Another sign of AC repair is reduced air flow. This can be a result of a clogged filter, frozen evaporator coils or blocked return air ducts. While a clogged filter may be easily remedied by changing it, ice on the evaporator coils could require more work. The best course of action is to contact a repair technician and let them know the problem.
If an AC unit is making a loud grinding noise, it’s often a sign of a damaged blower motor or compressor. While it’s possible that the problem can be fixed by a repair technician, it is often best to replace the blower or compressor. This can be expensive, ranging from $700 to $1,200 depending on the size of the unit and the type of motor.
An unserviced AC unit can become out of sync with the thermostat, causing the unit to work harder than it should to cool the home. This can cause parts to become loose or damaged. A repair technician can help by calibrating the two machines so they are working together correctly.
Some AC repair services also offer advice and installation of different filtration systems to improve the quality of the air in a home. These are complex machines that should only be installed by a trained professional. Similarly, it is best to leave electrical upgrades to professionals who can ensure the system is properly grounded and wired. This prevents dangerous electrical shocks that could be caused by faulty wiring or improper connections.
