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.

11. 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.

12. 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.