Do you know why your AC isn’t working as well as it once did? Or how refrigerant changes could impact you? You don’t need to know everything about your AC system, but it’s good to be informed about common issues when you need AC repair services. Let’s explore five things you may not have known that can be helpful for homeowners.
1. Refrigerant Regulations Impact Repair and Replacement Costs.
Often, homeowners’ AC just needs a refrigerant charge. However, as the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) continually updates its regulations, your AC repair service may not have your system’s refrigerant type on hand.
A ban on new production and import of R-22 refrigerant, commonly known as Freon, went into place in 2020. The ban followed a phasing out that began in 2014, prompted by the Montreal Protocol international agreement to stop producing substances known to deplete the ozone layer.
R-22’s initial replacement, R-410A, is also now being phased out in favor of the more eco-friendly alternatives, R-454B and R-32. These newer refrigerants have significantly lower potentials to impact global warming and are more energy-efficient, helping your system run more effectively. Beginning January 1, 2025, new AC units must use these newer refrigerants.
While technicians can still service systems using older refrigerants, associated costs will continue to rise. Ever since 2020, the industry must rely only on recovered, recycled, or reclaimed R-22. As supply continues to decrease, the cost of obtaining and servicing equipment with R-22 will increase significantly. For many homeowners, it may make the most financial sense to replace their older system with one using newer, ozone-friendly refrigerant instead of spending on older, outdated refrigerants.
2. Some Parts Are Expected to Wear Out.
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- Dual capacitors combine two capacitors into one unit—one for the compressor motor and one for the fan motor. The dual capacitor stores and releases electrical energy to help start and run both motors and maintains a steady current. Over time, capacitors can degrade due to constant electrical and thermal stress. Excessive heat, often due to poor ventilation, can cause overheating issues, while surges from fluctuations in the power grid or lightning strikes can also damage the capacitor. Capacitors typically have a finite lifespan of around five to 10 years, making them one of the most common candidates for replacement to repair a faulty system.
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- Condenser fan motors are another frequent cause of AC repairs. The condenser fan motor drives the fan, which blows air over the condenser coils. Fan motor burnout is often due to wear and tear, electrical problems, overheating, or bearing failure. The motor will run less efficiently as it wears out, consuming more energy and providing less-effective cooling. Excessive noise and vibrations can also indicate the need to replace a condenser fan motor, which a technician can easily accomplish during a service call or preventive maintenance visit. An AC condenser fan motor can last between 10 and 15 years with regular maintenance, but it may only last two to four years without maintenance.
- Contactors are the third most frequent failure in our experience. A contactor is an electrical relay that acts as a switch to control the power flow to the compressor and condenser fan motor. AC contactors can last five to 10 years if maintained properly, but a faulty contactor can cause the system to start and stop intermittently. If the contactor fails to close the circuit, your cooling system won’t start. Meanwhile, a contactor that fails to open can cause excessive wear and energy consumption by running the system continuously.
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3. Changing Your Filters Regularly Helps Prevent AC Repairs.
Most AC repairs aren’t do-it-yourself (DIY) projects. However, ask any HVAC professional for the number one thing homeowners can do to promote a healthy air conditioning system, and they’ll tell you to stay on top of regularly replacing the air filter.
The filter’s primary function is to trap dust, dirt, pollen, and other airborne particles, preventing them from entering the AC system and recirculating throughout your home. A clogged filter can restrict airflow, making your system work harder to maintain cool temperatures. Regularly changing the filter is a simple yet vital maintenance and repair task that promotes efficient operation, lower costs, and a healthier living environment.
Follow manufacturer recommendations or ask service professionals for guidance on how frequently to replace your AC’s air filter. For many standard residential systems with 1- to 2-inch filters, you should plan on replacing the filter every one to three months.
4. Neglecting AC Repairs Can Impact Your Health.
In addition to affecting your comfort, ignoring AC repair needs can exacerbate health issues due to degrading indoor air quality in your home. Poorly maintained systems can circulate dust, pollen, and other pollutants, worsening allergies and respiratory problems. Additionally, ineffective temperature and humidity regulation can dry skin and mucous membranes or promote dust mites. If left dormant, mold and bacteria can spread into the forced air flowing through your home and cause illnesses or other respiratory issues. Regular maintenance, including filter changes and professional inspections, improves indoor air quality.
5. Ductwork Makes a Difference
A final thing you should know about air conditioning system repairs is that, sometimes, it isn’t the mechanical AC equipment that needs service. It’s the ductwork. Various issues with ductwork can lead to the need for repairs.
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- Incorrectly Sized Ductwork: Undersized ducts create resistance, reducing airflow and forcing the system to work harder, which leads to higher energy consumption and wear and tear. Oversized ducts cause a loss of pressure and reduced efficiency. Both lead to uneven temperature distribution and discomfort.
- Leaks and Physical Damage: Leaky ducts can lose up to 30% of conditioned air, causing the HVAC system to work harder to maintain the desired temperature. Common causes of leaks include aging materials, poor installation, and physical damage from pests or accidental impact. Regular inspections and proper sealing can prevent these problems.
- Maintenance and Upgrades: Ducts can accumulate dust and debris over time, leading to blockages and reduced airflow. Regular maintenance, which includes cleaning and sealing ducts, can eliminate issues that lead to repairs. Additionally, older ductwork may not be compatible with newer, more efficient HVAC systems, necessitating upgrades to ensure optimal performance and longevity.
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To ensure you aren’t throwing money at unnecessary equipment repairs, additional insulation, or fans to boost circulation, choose an AC repair service that can assess your whole system, including the ductwork.
Precision Comfort Systems: The Pros You Should Know
Drawing from more than 30 years of experience serving the home comfort needs of Greater Indianapolis families, Precision Comfort Systems strives to use our expertise as an educational resource for area homeowners. Our experts have experience across makes and models of air conditioning equipment, an in-house metal shop for custom ductwork, and a comprehensive approach to your AC repairs. If your A/C is not performing as you think it should, schedule your repair service today.