It always seems to be on the hottest summer day when your air conditioner experiences problems. Most of these cooling problems are avoidable if you understand what to look for and how to prevent them. Below are the common problems you may experience over the summer in Big Sky, MT, and how AC maintenance will help you avoid them.
INADEQUATE COOLING
When you turn your system on for the season, you may notice the air from your registers is warm. The most common causes include low refrigerant in the system and a malfunctioning compressor. Spring AC maintenance includes a refrigerant check to ensure the levels are correct as well as compressor testing.
REDUCED AIRFLOW
You may also notice that while your system is running, there isn’t much air coming from your vents. Without the right amount of airflow, your system cannot effectively cool your house. The most common causes of reduced airflow included clogged air filters or coils.
TRIPPING BREAKER
Your air conditioner draws a lot of electrical current when it runs, and so it has a larger capacity breaker. If that breaker trips, it indicates there’s a larger draw than intended. The most common cause is a failing compressor, which requires extensive repairs.
ODD NOISES
An air conditioner will make some sound while it runs, especially the fans. However, if you hear rattling, screeching, screaming or loud humming, you have a problem requiring professional AC repair. While some of the noises may only require a simple tightening, others indicate substantial problems.
INAPPROPRIATE CYCLE LENGTHS
Your system’s cycle length will vary depending on the outside temperature and your indoor temperature setting. However, cycles that short cycle or long cycle indicate problems that need attention. Airflow restrictions, low refrigerant and failing components all cause inappropriate cycle lengths.
Make sure to protect your system from these common cooling problems and prepare it for the summer. Call Comfort Systems of Montana to schedule your spring AC maintenance today.
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Related FAQs
HVAC systems last an average of 10 years. However, for your equipment, it may differ. Variables that affect life expectancy include the type of system, climate and the regularity of routine maintenance.
Many factors affect the sizing and specifications of your system, including square footage, insulation, window surface and configuration, geographic location of your home, and duct sizing and arrangement. A technician from Comfort Systems of Montana can perform an in-home load analysis to determine which equipment combinations will perfectly suit your home and your family’s needs. Depending on the construction of your home, one (1) ton of air conditioning can cool anywhere from 300 to 800 square feet. You can ensure that the system you purchase is the right size and not smaller or larger than you require, by having your heating and cooling needs evaluated by a licensed professional.
