Some heating and air conditioning basics you can use this summer.
Just like you always feel better when you’re sitting in the doctor’s office, it always seems like heating and air conditioning goes out when you need it most. Now that we’re knee-deep in summer heat the question becomes, what’s up with our air conditioning units? Why do they always go out in the summer?
The reason comes back to high usage. The hottest months of the year are when your air conditioner will see the most action. It will run intermittently around the clock to keep your home cool and comfortable. With this much constant use, the parts and components are more likely to break down. What are the most common reasons for malfunctions?
Here are the most common causes of summer breakdown:
1. Dirty Air Filter
If there is dirt and debris built up on your air filter it will prevent air from flowing through the ducts and into your home, causing the system to have to work harder and run longer to get the same result. This can result in breakdowns from overworking and possibly overheating. To prevent this problem be sure to change your filter regularly, every 30-90 days depending on your air conditioner and home environment.
2. Dirty Condenser Coils
When the condenser coils are dirty that dirt acts as insulation preventing the distribution of heat from inside your house to the outside air. This can cause your A/C to blow out warm air instead of cool, and possibly overheat. Cleaning the coils properly can reduce the chances of this type of breakdown.
3. Low Refrigerant Levels
If the refrigerant levels in your system drop, it can cause your system to go out or malfunction. The reduced amount of refrigerant will still have to try to do the same amount of work but without the desired cooling. Not only will this result in a system that isn’t cooling your home, but it can also cause your system to freeze.
There are many reasons an HVAC system can break down, but in the middle of a summer if your house is as hot as your back yard, it can wreck your day. Don’t settle for a malfunctioning air conditioner; get help before you lose your cool.
Contact the experts at H.H. Hovey Heating and Cooling for help with any and all heating and air conditioning issues this summer by calling 336-768-2703 or by clicking here.
