Here in Clark County, WA, having a reliable AC unit is crucial for staying cool and productive during the warmest months of the year. An outside AC unit plays a vital role in maintaining a comfortable indoor environment, making it easier to focus on work and daily activities despite the heat.
However, as with any other home appliance, these units can encounter issues from time to time that affect their performance. As a homeowner, knowing how to address these issues can save both time and money, while also ensuring that their home remains a cool and pleasant place during the hottest days. Let’s take a look at some common outdoor AC unit issues to be aware of.
1. Dirty or Clogged Condenser Coils
Condenser coils in the outside unit release the heat from your home to the outside. However, if these coils are dirty or clogged, they can’t effectively release heat, causing your AC to work harder and less efficiently. As a result, you might notice reduced cooling or higher energy bills.
To fix this, turn off the AC unit and use a garden hose to gently wash away dirt and debris from the coils, while being careful not to bend the fins. For stubborn dirt, you can use a soft brush or a coil cleaner from a hardware store. We recommend regular cleaning of the coils, at least once a year, in order to prevent this issue.
2. Faulty Fan
The fan in the outside unit helps move air across the condenser coils, but if the fan isn’t working properly, the unit can’t cool efficiently. Common signs of a faulty fan include unusual noises, the fan not spinning, or the unit overheating.
First, you should check if the fan blades are blocked by debris. If the blades are clear but still not moving, the problem could be the fan motor.
You should therefore turn off the unit and inspect the fan motor for any visible damage. If the motor is faulty, you may need to replace it. This job might require the assistance of one of our technicians at Metfab Heating and Cooling.
3. Refrigerant Leaks
Finally, it’s important to mention refrigerant, which is essential for cooling. Put simply, if there’s a leak, your AC won’t cool properly, and you might notice ice on the unit or warm air from the vents. This can also cause higher electricity bills.
Refrigerant leaks often need a professional to fix, so don’t hesitate to contact our team if you have an issue that needs fixing quickly. We can locate the leak, repair it, and recharge the refrigerant to the correct level.
Outside AC Unit Care Tips
The bottom line is that maintaining your outside AC unit is crucial for a cool, comfortable home. At Metfab Heating and Cooling in Clark County, WA, we have nearly half a century of experience helping residents keep their AC units running smoothly.
Whether it’s cleaning coils, fixing fans, or repairing refrigerant leaks, our team is ready to assist. Request a service today and ensure your home stays cool and efficient all summer long with air conditioner maintenance.