What Are the Top Five AC Issues As the Weather Gets Warmer?

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Air-conditioning systems work overtime during the cooling season, making them more vulnerable to problems. Many of these problems are preventable with proper care. Here's a closer look at some of the most common summer AC issues.

Dirty Filters

A clogged filter can cause a variety of problems, such as airflow issues and inadequate cooling. It's a significant impediment to AC efficiency. You can avoid the AC issues that result from a clogged filter by checking your filter at least once a month and replacing it if it's dirty.

Refrigerant Leaks

This is one of the most common summer AC issues. The refrigerant in your air conditioner sucks up heat from your home and expels it outside to cool your indoor air. If you have a refrigerant leak, your air conditioner can't work efficiently and won't adequately keep your house cool and comfortable. Refrigerant leaks get bigger over time if you leave them unrepaired, so it's crucial to call in a professional if you suspect a leak has occurred.

Clogged Drains

Your air conditioner also dehumidifies the air as it cools it. The water from your home's air is removed through the condensation drain. Dirt and sludge can clog the condensation drain, leading to water backup and leaks. You should call an HVAC technician for service if you see water in or below your indoor HVAC equipment.

Constantly Turning On and Off

A system turning on and off constantly, also referred to as short cycling, is a problem that could damage AC parts like the compressor. A clogged air filter, electrical issues, dirty AC coils, or a unit that's too small could be the reason behind the issue. An HVAC professional will diagnose the problem and fix any damaged components.

Inadequate Cooling

If a new system isn't cooling your home adequately, the system's capacity may be inadequate for the size of your house. However, if the problem occurs after several years or months, it could be caused by an issue like a refrigerant leak or a damaged AC component. You'll need to contact a professional to check the system.

You can prevent most of these problems through proper AC care, such as scheduling annual maintenance and changing your filters regularly. If you need help with AC issues in the Broken Arrow area, contact Air Assurance.

Should You Change Your Air Filter More Frequently in the Summer?

Summer brings substantial heat and humidity to our area, and that means air conditioners get a good workout. You probably know you should change your air filter to keep things running well, but you might hear different opinions on how often. Here are reasons you should play closer attention to the filter in summer and avoid letting it get too dirty.

When the HVAC System Works Harder, Filters Collect Dust Faster

Hot weather plays a big role on how frequently you will need to change your air filter. The more your air conditioner has to run, the more air blows through the filter. When more air is moving through the filter, greater amounts of particulates get trapped.Unless Oklahoma has an unusually cool and dry summer, which is very rare, then chances are you will be using your air conditioner a lot and it will work hard to keep your home comfortable. This means you should check your air filter every month during the season, even if you don’t think you will need to change it.

How Often to Change the Filter

Many air filters, especially the low cost ones, will need to be changed every month during summer. You will be able to see very quickly how much dust it has already collected.Thick, pleated filters can sometimes last longer without needing to be replaced, but you should still check them every month and avoid going longer than 3 months without replacing them. The only exception to this is if the manufacturer or your HVAC technician specifically states otherwise.

Why Dirty Filters are Harmful

One of the primary problems with dirty filters is they restrict the volume of air getting through. This places a burden on the air handler and in turn takes a toll on the entire system. Soiled filters can also lead to:

• Frozen coils

• Dirty ducts

• Worsening allergies

• Higher energy bills — the restricted airflow makes your air conditioner cycle more and expend more effort.

To learn more about air filters and your Broken Arrow home, please contact us at Air Assurance.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in the Tulsa and Broken Arrow, Oklahoma area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). Credit/Copyright Attribution: “Steve Heap/Shutterstock”