Blog Introduction: Houston is known for its humidity and soaring temperatures, and air conditioning has become a necessity rather than a luxury. However, the last thing one needs is for their AC to break down during the sweltering heat of summer. Regular maintenance of your AC system is essential, but even with timely maintenance, unexpected AC breakdowns happen. In this blog, we’ll explore the most common reasons for AC breakdowns in Houston, TX, and what you can do about them.
Contents
Poor Airflow
Limited airflow through the air ducts is one of the main reasons for an AC to stop working. It happens due to clogged air filters, ductwork leaks, or a malfunctioning fan. Dirty filters restrict air passage, which adds stress to your AC system, leading to overheating and eventually, complete breakdown. To avoid such a situation, clean or replace your air filters every 1-3 months, depending on usage.
Refrigerant Leak
Your AC system relies on refrigerant, a substance that absorbs heat and removes it from your home. A refrigerant leak could happen due to wear and tear, corrosion, or manufacturing defects. Low refrigerant levels put extra strain on the compressor and can cause damage to the compressor and the AC coils. If you notice the refrigerant levels dropping, immediately call an HVAC technician for a repair or replacement.
Electrical Issues
AC systems contain various electrical components that provide power to the system. Electrical issues can lead to either a complete or partial system failure. Some of the common electrical issues include faulty wiring, the capacitor going bad, or the contactor malfunctioning. A professional technician can identify, diagnose, and repair these issues. If you experience any electrical malfunction in your AC system, switch it off and contact a professional right away.
Dirty Condenser Coils
Houston’s dusty air gets deposited in the condenser coils, located on the outdoor unit of your AC system, and if not cleaned, could ultimately lead to clogging. Dirty condenser coils lead to reduced heat transfer effectiveness, making the compressor work even harder to remove heat. This leads to overheating, and eventually, system failure. To avoid issues, consider investing in professional AC maintenance programs that will keep your system running smoothly.
Old Age
Nothing lasts forever, including your AC unit. Even with proper maintenance, an AC system ages with time and may develop issues due to wear and tear. If your AC is over ten years old, it is more likely to fail than a new, energy-efficient AC unit. Additionally, newer models are more energy-efficient than older ones and come with warranties that cover unexpected repairs for a few years. If your AC unit is ten years or older, consider upgrading to a modern system that is not only energy-efficient but also has features that can help improve your indoor air quality.
Conclusion
Regular maintenance of your AC system is essential to keep it in good condition. However, even with regular upkeep, an AC system may develop issues, leading to breakdowns. Understanding the common reasons for AC breakdowns in Houston, TX is crucial in identifying and fixing issues before they get out of hand. In case of unexpected breakdowns, always contact a professional HVAC technician instead of attempting to repair the AC system yourself. With timely repairs, you can ensure that your AC is working efficiently to keep your home cool and comfortable during the extreme Houston summers.