Factors in Low Air Conditioner Output
**Please Note: PRK Services, Inc. no longer offers duct cleaning services.**
Is your air conditioner not blowing as much cool air as it should be? Is it not blowing much air at all? Summer is the time of year when air conditioning systems are most likely to experience various problems. One of the first signs that your air conditioner is experiencing issues is a drop in output. If your air conditioner is not putting out as much output as it should be, there could be a number of different reasons why. Let’s take a look at some of those reasons below.
Refrigerant Leaks
Your air conditioner relies on its refrigerant to cool your home. It evaporates refrigerant to absorb thermal energy from the air in the ducts. It then condenses the refrigerant back into liquid outside to vent the collected heat. The air conditioner relies on the same amount of refrigerant throughout its entire lifespan. A refrigerant leak lowers the system’s available refrigerant pool, causing a drop in output in the process. Eventually, the refrigerant level will drop so low that the air conditioner will completely break down. Call for repairs if you see fluid dripping from your air conditioner.
Clogged Air Filter
Most homeowners don’t know that their air conditioner contains an air filter. That’s a problem, as the air filter needs to be changed every few months in order to prevent it from becoming clogged. A clogged air filter blocks most of the air from entering the air conditioner, causing its output level to drop as a result. Fortunately, this problem is one of the few that you can solve yourself. Just remove the clogged air filter and replace it with a new one. Doing that every three months or so should prevent the filter from becoming clogged again.
Air Handler Malfunction
The air handler is the part that your air conditioner uses to circulate air throughout the home. It’s basically a motor with a large fan attached to it. If the air handler malfunctions, the output level of the air conditioner can drop to almost nothing. The system still technically cools air just fine, but it has no new air flowing to it for it to cool. Air handler malfunctions can be caused by all kinds of things, from electrical issues to failing bearings. If your air conditioner isn’t blowing any air, or it’s making a loud grinding sound during operation, then it’s a good idea to have a professional examine it as soon as possible.
Duct Leaks
Ducts develop minor leaks over time, as years of flexing with the temperature of the air causes small gaps to form between the sections. Though they are individually small, these leaks add up quickly. The US Department of Energy Estimates that up to 30% of a forced air system’s output is lost on average, due to duct leaks. The best way to deal with this is to have your ducts sealed, or to even have them replaced if they’re in poor enough condition.
PRK Services, Inc. offers a full range of air conditioner repair services in Corinth, TX. If you need air conditioner services of any kind, contact us today to schedule an appointment with one of our expert technicians.