Common AC Repairs and Their Preceding Symptoms

  1. Refrigerant Leaks:
    • Symptoms: Reduced cooling, hissing noises, ice on evaporator coils.
    • Procedure: Detect the leak using an electronic leak detector or UV dye. Once identified, seal the leak.
    • Parts/Supplies: Refrigerant, leak sealants, possibly new tubing.
    • Labor Time: 2-4 hours.
  2. Failed Capacitors:
    • Symptoms: Compressor not running, humming sound, AC intermittently shutting off.
    • Procedure: Check the capacitor with a multimeter. Replace if faulty.
    • Parts/Supplies: A new capacitor.
    • Labor Time: 1-2 hours.
  3. Faulty Thermostats:
    • Symptoms: HVAC system doesn’t start or won’t shut off, unresponsive controls, erratic temperature changes.
    • Procedure: Check the thermostat’s wiring and settings. Replace if non-functional.
    • Parts/Supplies: New thermostat, potentially new wiring.
    • Labor Time: 1-2 hours.
  4. Broken or Malfunctioning Fans:
    • Symptoms: Overheating, reduced airflow, loud noises from the outdoor unit.
    • Procedure: Inspect the fan motor and blades. Replace if damaged.
    • Parts/Supplies: New fan motor or blades.
    • Labor Time: 2-3 hours.
  5. Clogged Drains:
    • Symptoms: Water leakage, mold/mildew smell, water damage around the HVAC unit.
    • Procedure: Clear the drain line using a vacuum or specialized tools. Use algaecide to prevent future clogs.
    • Parts/Supplies: Vacuum, algaecide tablets/liquid.
    • Labor Time: 1-2 hours.
  6. Dirty or Clogged Filters:
    • Symptoms: Reduced airflow, increased energy bills, uneven cooling or heating.
    • Procedure: Replace the old filter with a new one.
    • Parts/Supplies: New filter.
    • Labor Time: Less than 1 hour.
  7. Ignition or Pilot Control Problems:
    • Symptoms: Furnace not starting, cold air from vents, frequent cycling.
    • Procedure: Check and clean the ignition system. Replace faulty components.
    • Parts/Supplies: New ignitor or thermocouple.
    • Labor Time: 1-3 hours.
  8. Malfunctioning Thermostatic Expansion Valve (TXV):
    • Symptoms: Reduced cooling, frozen evaporator coil, compressor issues.
    • Procedure: Inspect the valve and replace if faulty.
    • Parts/Supplies: New TXV.
    • Labor Time: 2-4 hours.
  9. Worn-out Belts or Bearings:
    • Symptoms: Squealing or grinding noises, reduced system efficiency.
    • Procedure: Inspect the belts and bearings. Replace or lubricate as needed.
    • Parts/Supplies: New belts or bearings, lubricant.
    • Labor Time: 1-3 hours.
  10. Cracked or Failing Heat Exchangers:
  • Symptoms: Unusual odors, carbon monoxide alarm going off, physical cracks visible.
  • Procedure: Check for cracks visually or with cameras. Replace if needed.
  • Parts/Supplies: New heat exchanger.
  • Labor Time: 3-5 hours.
  1. Electrical Connection Issues:
  • Symptoms: Intermittent power to the unit, system not starting.
  • Procedure: Tighten connections, clean or replace corroded wires or terminals.
  • Parts/Supplies: New wiring or connectors if needed.
  • Labor Time: 1-2 hours.
  1. Ductwork Leaks or Tears:
  • Symptoms: Uneven room temperatures, increased energy bills, dusty environment.
  • Procedure: Inspect ducts and seal leaks with mastic or metal tape. Replace larger tears.
  • Parts/Supplies: Mastic, metal tape, potentially new duct sections.
  • Labor Time: 2-4 hours.

Always trust your senses and observations, and when in doubt, it’s always best to call a professional to ensure the safety and efficiency of your HVAC system.

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