3 Common Air Conditioning Unit Faults And Solutions

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3 Common Air Conditioning Unit Faults And Solutions

10 August 2015
 Categories: , Blog

When the weather's hot, it can be a nightmare if your home air conditioning lets you down.  Some common problems can be simply solved without the need to call out the repair man.  Here's a brief overview of some of the most frequently encountered air con problems and how to fix them.

Problem:  The air conditioning system doesn't work at all

Solution:

  1. Start by checking that the thermostat is set to "cool" and hasn't accidentally been knocked onto the "off" or "heat" settings.  If necessary, reset the thermostat and ensure that it's set below the current temperature in the room.  
  2. Inspect the circuit breakers controlling the air con unit and the air handler and make sure they are both in the "on" position.  If one of the breakers has been tripped (perhaps by a power spike), you'll need to reset it by realigning the switch to the "on" setting.  If this doesn't work, you might need to replace the fuse in the unit.  
  3. Make sure that all the switches around the air conditioner unit are "on".  Remember to check the external safety switch which you'll find on an external wall, adjacent to the condensing unit and make sure that's "on" too.  
  4. If your air conditioning unit has a condensate overflow tray instead of a drain, make sure it's not full of water.  When the tray gets full, a sensor within the unit will turn the system off until the tray has been emptied.  If the tray's full, simply empty and replace it.  
  5. Finally, double check that the blower door on the air handler unit is firmly shut.  If it's come open, the system will automatically shut down.  Secure the door and make sure that the catch is working properly.  If it's damaged, you'll need to replace it.

Problem:  Compressor turns on and off frequently

Solution:

  1. The most common reason for a "shorting" compressor is an obstructed thermostat.  Turn the unit off and check that the thermostat is clear and free from dust and other debris.  Use a vacuum cleaner hose attachment to remove any grime from the vicinity of the thermostat.  
  2. Obstructed or dirty condensing fins in the exterior condensing unit can cause "shorting".  Vacuum away any dust or debris and if necessary repair bent fins using a fin comb (available from good DIY stores).  
  3. A dirty air filter can cause "shorting".  Check that the air filter is clean and if necessary, replace it.  Make this a part of your regular home maintenance routine to avoid similar problems in the future.

Problem:  Lack of air flow from cooling vents

Solution:

  1. Make sure that the air filter is clean.  If it's dirty, you'll need to clean or replace.  
  2. Carry out a visual inspection of all the ductwork, some of which could be sited in your loft or basement.  If areas of the ductwork have become damaged or disconnected, the air conditioning system won't work properly, and you'll need to reconnect or repair as required.  
  3. Make sure that all the dampers on air con vents in your rooms are set in the "open" position.  Sometimes the dampers can be inadvertently knocked closed when you're vacuuming.

In conclusion

In many cases, these common problems with air conditioning systems can be simply rectified.  However, if problems persist, always consult a service company, such as Adelaide Heating & Cooling-Gawler, as the fault may be something more serious that requires professional intervention.