We don’t know what we have until we lose it is one of the truest statements when it comes to air conditioning. There are several reasons why your AC might break down during the summer. We’re here to talk about common air conditioning condenser problems. This guide will help you identify these issues and know what to expect.
Being able to identify common air conditioning condenser problems can help you get them fixed straight away. Keeping your AC functional during the summer isn’t just important for comfort but also for health if you live with children or the elderly.
Identifying Common Air Conditioning Condenser Problems
Condensers work by transferring hot air from the indoor unit to the outdoor unit. This is done with the help of refrigerant. An evaporator coil is part of the condenser and is present in the indoor unit. It’s responsible for absorbing heat. The condenser coil is another part but one that’s present outside the house. It’s responsible for releasing heat into the environment. Now that we have a simplified idea on how condensers work, let’s talk about its problems.
Blocked airflow is one of the most common issues you might face. The presence of a fence or shrub that’s blocking the unit can block airflow to the condenser. When this happens, your condenser might not function properly and will be prone to overheating. This can be avoided by making sure the outdoor unit is placed away from any other structures that could potentially block airflow.
Bent fins are another problem that could be affecting your AC condenser. The purpose of these fins is to transfer heat from refrigerant into the air. When you have bent fins, you might notice your AC working less efficiently. Your AC will also be prone to overheating. You might be able to fix this issue by using a fin comb. If you fail, you should call a professional for assistance.
Dirty coils can affect the efficiency of your AC unit. Dirt builds up over time and your coils need to be cleaned occasionally. The top of your condenser should be sprayed with a hose until the coils are wet. To get rid of any caked-on dirt, you can scrub the coils with a toothbrush dipped in vinegar. If you notice any signs of corrosion, call a professional. Trying to repair coils yourself could be dangerous and might result in more problems.
Problems affecting your AC’s fan will also lead to overheating and poor cooling. Your fan might not be working because of problems affecting their motor or because the blades are bent. Another common issue is leaking refrigerant. Both issues will require help from an AC technician or HVAC contractor.
These are the most common air conditioning condenser problems. Some of them are more serious than others, but all of them should be dealt in a timely manner. Don’t neglect AC problems or play them down. If left without treatment, condenser problems can become quite serious and you might end up paying more to fix them, or even have to replace your AC.
