In Edmonton, AB’s warm summers, air conditioners are essential for indoor comfort. However, these systems can breakdown. Understanding the components most susceptible to failure is crucial for homeowners.
In this blog post, the pros at Canadian Climate Control Services will explore the common parts prone to breakdowns in Edmonton. By identifying these components and their issues, residents can take proactive measures to ensure uninterrupted cooling.
Let’s get started with this guide on which parts of an air conditioner break down most often.
The Compressor
The compressor is an essential component of your air conditioner. It squeezes the refrigerant, making it hot and pressurized so it can release heat outside.
Common issues with the compressor include overheating and electrical failures. Overheating can happen if the compressor works too hard or if airflow is restricted. Electrical failures can occur due to faulty wiring or power surges.
To prevent breakdowns, make sure the compressor has enough airflow by keeping the area around it clean and clear.
Additionally, have a professional check the electrical connections regularly to catch any problems early on. Regular maintenance can help keep your compressor running smoothly.
The Condenser Coil
The condenser coil also plays a vital role in cooling your home. Its job is to release the heat absorbed from inside your home to the outside air. However, it’s prone to getting dirty from dust, leaves, and other debris.
If the condenser coil becomes blocked with dirt and debris, its ability to expel heat diminishes. Consequently, this can result in decreased cooling efficiency and an increase in energy costs. Neglecting to clean the condenser coil regularly can also cause the air conditioner to overheat and break down prematurely.
Keeping the condenser coil clean is essential for maintaining optimal performance and prolonging the lifespan of your air conditioner. Again, regular AC maintenance, including cleaning the coil, is key to ensuring your cooling system runs smoothly throughout the summer months.
The Evaporator Coil
The evaporator coil is a critical component in the cooling process of your air conditioner. Its main function is to absorb heat from the air inside your home, cooling it down before circulating it back into your living spaces.
Refrigerant leaks are a common issue associated with the evaporator coil. When there’s a leak, the refrigerant level decreases, causing the coil to freeze up and preventing it from effectively cooling the air. This can lead to reduced cooling performance and potentially costly AC repair.
Regular maintenance is essential for ensuring the evaporator coil functions properly. This includes cleaning the coil to remove dirt and debris, and ensuring proper airflow. A dirty coil can be prevented by regularly changing the furnace filter.
The Fan Motor
The fan motor is the engine of your air conditioner’s fan, responsible for circulating air throughout your home. It works to pull warm air from inside your home and push it over the evaporator coil to be cooled before distributing it back into your living spaces.
However, like any mechanical part, the fan motor can experience issues over time. Common problems include motor failure, where the motor stops working altogether, and worn bearings, which can cause unusual noises or vibrations.
Signs of a failing fan motor include strange noises, such as grinding or squealing sounds, poor airflow from the vents, and the fan not turning on at all.
If you notice any of these signs, it’s essential to have one of our professionals inspect and repair the fan motor to prevent further damage to your air conditioning system.
The Capacitor
The capacitor plays a big role in starting your air conditioning system. It stores and releases electrical energy to kick-start the compressor and fan motors, helping them run smoothly.
However, capacitors can develop issues over time. Common problems include bulging or swelling, which indicates internal damage, and leakage of electrolyte fluid, which can compromise the capacitor’s performance.
It’s important to address capacitor problems promptly to prevent further damage to your air conditioner. Neglecting problems with the capacitor may result in the failure of the compressor or motor, leading to expensive repairs or potentially requiring a complete system replacement.
If you suspect a problem with your capacitor, it’s best to have it inspected and replaced by one of our qualified technicians as soon as possible.
The Thermostat
The thermostat works to regulate the temperature of your home’s environment. It acts as the control center, allowing you to set and maintain your desired temperature, ensuring comfort and energy efficiency.
However, thermostats can experience malfunctions over time. Common issues include inaccurate temperature readings, which can lead to discomfort and energy waste, and wiring issues that prevent proper communication between the thermostat and the HVAC system.
Upgrading your thermostat can offer improved efficiency and convenience. Options such as programmable or smart thermostats allow for precise temperature control and scheduling, optimizing energy usage and reducing utility costs.
The Refrigerant
Refrigerant is responsible for absorbing heat from inside your home and releasing it outside. It undergoes a continuous cycle of compression and expansion, allowing it to transfer heat effectively and cool your living spaces.
Contrairy to popular belief, a properly installed system never had to be “topped up”. It’s a closed system and the the refrigerant is not consumed. If you have a leak, it has to be properly repaired.
However, refrigerant leaks can severely impact your system’s performance. When refrigerant levels drop due to leaks, the cooling capacity of your air conditioner decreases, leading to inadequate cooling and increased energy consumption.
Detecting and repairing refrigerant leaks promptly is crucial for maintaining your system’s efficiency. Signs of a leak include reduced cooling performance, hissing noises near the indoor unit, or ice buildup on the refrigerant lines.
Our team of experts utilizes specialized equipment to pinpoint and fix leaks, guaranteeing optimal performance and functionality of your system. Regular maintenance can also help prevent leaks and prolong the lifespan of your air conditioning system.
The Parts of an Air Conditioner That Break Down
The bottom line is that understanding the common parts of an air conditioner prone to breakdowns is essential for maintaining comfort and efficiency, especially in Edmonton’s climate.
Don’t let malfunctioning parts disrupt your summer comfort. Trust Canadian Climate Control Services, your premier choice for air conditioner repair, maintenance, and more in Edmonton, AB.
With over 25 years of experience serving Edmonton and Northern Alberta, our expert technicians are ready to ensure your system runs smoothly. Contact us today to schedule an AC service and keep your air conditioner in top condition all season long.