AC Repair Spokane

Frequently Asked Questions About AC Repair

What causes an AC unit to leak water inside?

Water leaking inside from your AC unit usually indicates a problem with the condensate drainage system. Here are some common causes:

• Clogged condensate drain line:
Algae, dust, and debris can clog the drain, causing water to back up and overflow.
• Cracked drain pan:
The pan collects condensation. A crack allows water to leak out.
• Disconnected drain line:
The line may have become disconnected from the unit or the drain.
• Frozen evaporator coil:
A coil frozen due to restricted airflow can lead to leaks.
• Low refrigerant:
This can cause ice to form on the evaporator coil, which then drips.

It's best to have a professional resolve AC water leaks.

How do I reset my AC unit?

Resetting your system is a basic troubleshooting step. Here's how to reset most residential AC units:1. **Turn off the AC at the thermostat:** Set it to the 'off' position.2. **Turn off power at the breaker panel:** Locate the circuit breaker that controls your AC unit and switch it to the 'off' position.3. **Wait 5-10 minutes:** This allows the system to completely power down and reset any internal electronics.4. **Turn the breaker back on:** Flip the circuit breaker back to the 'on' position.5. **Turn on the AC at the thermostat:** Set the thermostat to your desired cooling temperature.If the problem persists, it's likely a more serious issue, and you should contact a qualified HVAC technician. Never attempt electrical repairs on your AC unit unless you are qualified to do so safely..

What is a capacitor in an AC unit, and why is it important?

A capacitor is a small, but crucial, electrical component in your air conditioner. It stores electrical energy and releases it in a burst to help start the compressor and fan motors. Without a functioning capacitor, these motors wouldn't be able to start, and your AC wouldn't be able to cool your home. Common signs of a failing capacitor include difficulty starting the AC, humming sounds from the unit, or the AC unit turning on and off frequently. If you suspect a bad capacitor, contact a qualified HVAC technician to have it replaced.

What are the signs of a bad AC compressor?

The compressor is a vital component of your AC system, and its failure can be a major headache. Watch out for these signs of a failing compressor:

• Loud noises:
Unusual sounds like clanking, grinding, or rattling from the outdoor unit indicate potential problems with the compressor.
• Warm air from vents:
If the air from the vents isn't cool, it could mean the compressor isn't functioning properly.
• Reduced cooling capacity:
Your AC unit may be running constantly, but the house doesn't cool down as it should.
• Refrigerant leaks:
Leaks can occur at the compressor and lead to reduced cooling efficiency.
• Tripping circuit breaker:
A failing compressor can draw excess current, causing the breaker to trip repeatedly.

Don't ignore signs of a failing compressor, address them promptly.