This is also the time of year when home and business owners are experiencing issues with their air conditioning units. Dropping temperatures and snow may not be ideal operating conditions for many AC models.
Problems With Air Conditioning In Winter
Dirty Filters
Dirty filters are a prevalent issue with faulty air conditioners. If you leave dirt to build up in your air conditioner filters, it can make your unit work a lot harder to give you a comfortable temperature.
A simple clean could go a long way in helping your air conditioner operate as if it’s new. Furthermore, dirty filters will push up your power bills as the air conditioning system will have to work overtime to keep your room at the desired temperature.
Faulty Thermostat
Commonly overlooked, a faulty thermostat can cause a host of issues. When you can’t find a problem with the hardware, it could be the electronics to blame.
Fan Failures
If your condenser seems to be operating, then the last thing to check is your air handler. You can find your air handler inside, usually in your basement or near your furnace. If your system’s blower is particularly old, then it may have finally seized up over the winter. If you can’t hear the blower motor and feel no air from your home’s vents, then you probably have an air handler issue.
How To Prevent Winter Problems With Your Air Conditioner
Keep Your Filters Clean
Whether you use the air conditioner or not, it is critical to keep your air filters clean. This is simple to accomplish and will ensure that your device always runs efficiently.
Remove Any Debris From The Outside Air Conditioning Unit
Make sure that the outside unit is in good working order as any debris or anything outside or around the unit can cause issues. Maintaining a clean and clutter-free environment around the unit allows the system to breathe and function properly.
Keep Your Unit Clear From Obstructions
Whether it’s your vents inside or your condenser outside, all parts of your air conditioning unit should always be free from obstructions. A blocked vent or other pathway can result in the unit having to work a lot harder to maintain the same output, which can mean a drastically reduced efficiency. Depending on its placement, your outside condenser might face a couple of obstacles, including dried leaves and other debris, falling ice, or simply a light layer of frost coalescing on the outside of the unit. Leaves and debris can block the fan, while a buildup of frost can stop it from moving altogether.