11 Air Conditioning Repairs You Can Handle DIY
Air conditioning used to be a luxury in metro Los Angeles.
Now, with our longer, hotter summers, it’s a necessity, especially if you live inland, where it can reach a toasty 100+ F, sometimes for a solid week.
You might be able to get by (miserably) without AC, but do you want to? And what if your air conditioning gives out at the worst possible time when every air conditioning technician is booked?
By following the simple steps outlined below, you may be able to repair your air conditioner independently or at least identify potential problems.
However, please use caution and consult a professional if you are unsure about any steps or feel uncomfortable handling certain tasks.
1. Check the Airflow
When your air conditioner runs, but the air inside your home isn’t cool, it could be a matter of airflow.
- Dirty or clogged air filters can restrict airflow, making your AC work harder and less efficiently. If your filters are dirty, replace them with new ones.
- Make sure all the vents in your home are open and not blocked by furniture or other objects.
- The outdoor unit of your AC may have accumulated dirt and debris that can block airflow. Turn off the power to the unit and carefully clean it with a garden hose.
- Damaged or leaking ducts can also affect airflow. Inspect accessible ducts for damage or leaks and repair as needed.
2. Check Thermostat Settings
It seems blindingly obvious to check thermostat settings, but you’d be surprised how many people fail to do it.
- Ensure the temperature is lower than the current room temperature (duh!).
- Make sure your thermostat is set to “cool” and not “heat” or “fan only.”
- If you have a programmable thermostat, check the schedule to ensure it’s set correctly.
3. Inspect the Fan & Wiring
A fan malfunction can lead to an overheated compressor, a situation best avoided by preliminary checks before professional assistance.
- Examine the fan unit to ensure its operation.
- Verify that all cords and wires are securely connected.
- Check for visible damage or wear on the fan blades or motor.
- Call a professional for further inspection and repairs if you notice any issues.
4. Clean the Condenser Coils
Dirty condenser coils can significantly reduce your air conditioner’s efficiency. Clean them regularly as part of your maintenance routine.
- Turn off the power to the unit before cleaning.
- Remove debris around the unit and gently vacuum away dirt and dust on the coils with a soft brush attachment.
- Use a coil cleaner for AC units for tougher buildup, following the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.
5. Check Refrigerant Lines
An air conditioner without refrigerant doesn’t refrigerate. Funny how that works.
- There are two refrigerant lines. a smaller and a larger one.
- Look for frost on the larger line, a signal of airflow restrictions, or low refrigerant.
- Turn the fan switch to “on” and wait approximately 30 minutes. The compressor will shut off to allow inspection.
- If the larger line remains frosted or is not cool, you could be experiencing compressor issues or refrigerant depletion.
- Restoring your AC unit’s refrigerant levels is a job for a professional.
6. Clear the Condensation Drain
Condensation from your AC unit should drain through a line into the outside. However, this line can get clogged.
- Locate the drain line and check for any blockages or buildup.
- If you find anything, gently clear it with a wire hanger or use a wet-dry vacuum to suck out the obstruction.
7. Test the Capacitor
The capacitor stores energy that powers your AC’s motors. A failing capacitor can cause your air conditioner to stop working altogether.
- Turn off the power to the unit and use a multimeter to test the capacitor.
- If the reading is outside the acceptable range, you may need to replace it.
- Capacitor replacement can be hazardous; leave this task to a professional.
8. Replace Fuses or Circuit Breakers
If your AC isn’t turning on, check your electrical panel for blown fuses or tripped circuit breakers.
- Replace any blown fuses with new ones of the same amperage.
- For a tripped breaker, turn it off, then back on again. If it trips again immediately, an underlying electrical issue could require professional attention.
9. Adjust the Temperature Sensor
A misaligned temperature sensor can cause inconsistent air conditioner operation. You can realign it with these steps:
- Locate the wire connecting to the sensor.
- Adjust by gently bending the wire, ensuring optimal sensor alignment.
- The sensor will now more reliably detect room temperature, promoting stable function according to set temperatures.
10. Clean or Replace the Air Filter
Place your finger over the open end of a straw and blow. Your air conditioner experiences this when its filter clogs with dust and cat hair.
- Locate the air filter, usually behind the front grill of an indoor unit or within the return air duct.
- Remove the filter for inspection.
- If the filter is washable, clean it with mild soap and warm water and let it dry completely before reinserting it. If it’s disposable, assess for dust and debris buildup and consider replacing it every one to three months.
- A clean filter improves airflow, easing strain on the system and leading to optimal cooling.
11. Check the Insulation
Properly insulated refrigerant lines ensure effective cooling by preventing energy loss.
- Inspect the pipes from the air conditioning unit for damaged or missing insulation.
- If you detect wear, replace the insulation with foam insulation sleeves (found in home improvement stores).
When to Hire Professional Help
Some problems may require expert assessment and repair from the get-go. West Coast Chief serves metro Los Angeles, Orange County, and southern Ventura County with certified air conditioning repair. Call us in the morning for same-day service! We guarantee every job we do.
FAQs: DIY Air Conditioning Repairs
Q: How often should I clean or replace my air filter?
Depending on usage and the type of filter, we recommend that you clean or replace your air filter every one to three months. A clogged filter can strain your system and lead to inefficiency.
Q: What if I notice frost on the larger refrigerant line?
This could indicate a problem with airflow or low refrigerant levels. Turn off the unit’s power and call a professional for further inspection.
Q: What can make my air conditioner leak water inside the house?
This could be caused by several issues, including a clogged condensate drain, a dirty air filter, or low refrigerant levels leading to freezing coils. Address these issues promptly to prevent water damage to your home.
Q: Why does my air conditioner keep turning on and off frequently?
Short cycling may be due to a faulty thermostat, an oversized unit, or restricted airflow. To alleviate this problem, check your thermostat settings and ensure clean filters and vents. If it persists, you may need a professional evaluation.
Q: Is it normal for the air conditioner to make noise?
Slight humming or whooshing is normal. Unusual sounds like banging, clanking, or grinding can indicate mechanical issues. Turn off the unit and contact a technician before further damage occurs.
Q: How can I improve the energy efficiency of my air conditioner?
Clean or replace air filters regularly, check for proper insulation, ensure your home seals tight against cool air loss, and schedule routine maintenance checks. Upgrading to a more efficient model can also yield significant energy savings.
Q: What should I do if my air conditioner emits a foul odor?
This may result from mold or mildew in the ducts or unit or dirty filters. Clean these components, and if the smell persists, seek professional cleaning services to address any underlying issues.
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