How to Avoid A/C Repair During the Hottest Days in Denver

No one wants to deal with a faulty air conditioner when it’s needed most. Before you get too hot under the collar anticipating hefty repair bills, know that there are many common issues that are easy to fix yourself, and cost little or no money.

Here are some common problems and things you can do before you reach for the phone:

Issue #1: My air conditioner won’t turn on.

Possible Cause: Thermostat isn’t set correctly or power isn’t reaching the AC unit.

It is fairly easy to accidentally switch the thermostat to the wrong setting when cleaning or when someone or something brushes by it.

Fix: Make sure the thermostat is set to AC or “Cool”, the temperature setting is correct, and the battery is fresh. Check the circuit breaker as it could be a tripped fuse. These are the simplest solutions and should be checked first.

Cost: Free

Issue #2: My home is not as comfortable as it was last year.

Possible Cause: Airflow Issue

Regular maintenance can prevent a lot of headaches do to impaired airflow, but if you haven’t it in awhile, that could be why your system is not working as well as it once did. Keep in mind that regular maintenance is simple and inexpensive to do, and can save you time, money and discomfort over the life of your unit.

Fix: Change the filter. This should be done regularly to keep your unit in top shape. Also check the air conditioning unit outside. Make sure there is at least 24″ of clearance on each side and five feet on top of the unit. Clear away any overgrown plants or shrubs. Inside, check to make sure there are no obstructions to the home’s cold air returns and registers.

Cost: $5-$20, depending on the filter

Issue #3: My Utility Bills are Abnormally High

Possible Cause: As mentioned above, deferred maintenance can mean that your unit is dirty and not operating as efficiently as it should. The harder your unit works, the more energy it uses, and the higher your utility bills are. The problem could be as simple as a dirty filter or more complicated, like a clogged condensing coil in the outdoor unit. The coil is comprised of fins, similar to a car radiator, that can accumulate dust and debris that should be cleaned annually.

Fix: Change the filter. If that doesn’t work, call a pro and schedule a tune-up. Your HVAC professional will safely clean the coils and make sure they are functioning properly.

Cost: $5-$20 for the filter or $120 for a tune-up

Issue #4: My A/C makes weird noises.

Possible Cause: This could be as simple as replacing a loose screw or it could be something more serious, like a bad blower motor (indoors) or bent fan blade (outdoors).

Fix: If you can identify the loose screws, a simple tightening here and lubricating there will fix the problem. If not, you might require a new fan motor or fan blade. Call for an inspection and tune-up. This may be more economical than you think. Your HVAC professional performs many maintenance steps and can identify and correct other minor issues to keep your unit running all season long. If you do need a major repair, it’s best to catch it early.

Cost: Free to fix the loose screws. $120 for an inspection and tune-up; $150 to $750 for a new blower motor.

Issue #5: My A/C shuts off too soon or runs too long.

Possible Cause: Improper placement of the thermostat.

If the thermostat is in a location that is influenced by other factors (such as in direct sunlight or above air vents) this can account for faulty readings and cause your unit to turn on and off at the wrong times.

Fix: Relocate the thermostat.

Cost: Free if you’re handy (and plan on reusing the same unit); up to $250 for a new programmable unit, plus another $100 for an HVAC pro to install it.

Issue #6: Blowing Warm Air

Possible Cause: The refrigerant lines aren’t insulated.

Fix: The outdoor unit is connected to the indoor system by two copper refrigerant lines, which should be covered with insulating sleeves. Make sure that they are. Also, the system may need its refrigerant re-charged.

Cost: $5 for insulating sleeves; up to $150 for a system re-charge.

Remember, the simplest and most economical way to ensure that your A/C is functioning properly all summer long, is to schedule a routine maintenance appointment every year with your HVAC professional. Call IAQ today for fast, reliable service!