Is Your Air Conditioner Running Hot? Understanding Signs Of Critical AC Problems
The air conditioner unit that runs all summer to cool your home is designed to work both efficiently and quietly. In many cases, homeowners go weeks or months without really giving it a second thought. However, before the temperatures rise, don't overlook issues, like the system overheating. Read more about critical AC problems that start with components of the system overheating:
Residential AC Systems Overheat
Running an AC all summer can lead to several problems, including excessive wear and tear on the air conditioner and overheating of the interior components. Often, these problems start as the system is constantly running, and parts start to overheat. Sometimes, the overheating might just be due to wear, or it could be due to problems with lack of maintenance. Ice is a major sign that there is a problem. The ice is caused by condensation freezing on the coil, which can cause the compressor and other components to overheat. This is a major cause of issues with compressor leaks and other damage to AC components during summer heatwaves.
Fix Airflow By Cleaning the Coils
Many homeowners or tenants don't realize that their AC coils can be the cause of poor airflow. Therefore, they should stay clean to ensure there is good airflow coming from your HVAC vents. If there is a problem with restricted airflow, turn the system off and then check the coils. If they are dirty, they need to be cleaned before this leads to other problems that are going to need to be repaired. If there is ice built up on the coils and other components, they need to thaw. The ice is a major cause of overheating of AC systems during the winter months, and it can cause severe damage to your systems.
Bigger Issues With the Fan Motor or Compressor
Whenever you have an air conditioner, you should be aware of how it is performing. First and foremost, make sure that it is working properly by checking the compressor and the blower. If either one is broken, you should repair the problem immediately. Also, look for any signs of spikes in temperature, such as excess moisture in the room or condensation forming on the windows. If these things persist despite thorough cleaning, you're probably dealing with underlying problems that will need attention soon. Repairing these underlying issues quickly will prevent serious damage to your AC.
If you understand how your air conditioner works, you will be able to identify issues before they cause damage. Contact an air-conditioning repair service to get help dealing with these problems.