There are some air conditioner concerns we address on a daily basis. Broken fans, slipped belts, and refrigerant leaks are common, as are concerns that turn out to be thermostat problems and not issues with the air conditioner at all. But on occasion we do see some unusual problems crop up. If your air conditioner is having a problem, no matter how odd, we’re ready to help. Here are some of the stranger things we discover during repairs.
1: Sinking Condensers
The condenser is the outdoor unit of your air conditioner, where refrigerant is circulated to release heat and condense back to a liquid state. It contains the compressor, which pressurizes the refrigerant and makes it possible for the whole system to work. To keep it stable and to absorb some of the vibration so it doesn’t shake all its screws loose, it is almost always installed on a slab of concrete.
If the ground around that slab becomes unstable, sometimes from wet conditions, it can begin to sink. This is very bad news. All the connections were made with the condenser at a specific height, and refrigerant lines can be damaged if the heavy condenser pulls them down. And if the sinking causes the condenser to tilt, oil can leak from the compressor. With insufficient oil, the compressor will quickly burn out.
Catch this problem early, and we might be able to shore up the existing concrete slab. In some cases, a new slab may need to be poured. But that’s much better than a dead compressor, which in most cases means AC replacement will be required.
2: Peeling Air Handlers
If you have a ductless system, there are multiple air handlers in your home. This allows for temperature to be adjusted in different zones, and is extremely efficient. However, it also means that the drainage system is more complex than in a central air conditioner. Once in a while, particularly humid conditions or a blockage in a condensate drain can cause such a moisture problem that an air handler will begin to peel away from the wall it’s mounted on.
Again, with prompt AC repair in Fresno, CA, this can be remedied. The drainage system can be cleaned and adjusted to make sure moisture is unable to pool. Catch this early to avoid water damage.
3: Infestation
Insects and rodents have been known to take up residence in ductwork, which can lead to quite a mess as well as damage to the ducts themselves. And sometimes, a concern about the condenser leads us to believe that dirt or debris is effectively acting as an insulator and preventing heat from being released. When a technician checks it—surprise! It’s not caked-on dust or last fall’s leaf litter, it’s a beehive or wasp nest, or possibly even a cozy home for snakes.
An exterminator may be required for some pest-related problems, but once it’s safe to proceed, our team can get your pest-free air conditioner up and running again.
No matter the problem, don’t hesitate to reach out for advice or prompt repair!
We strive to provide honest answers and solutions to the problems our customers’ experience while remaining highly competitive in price, and offer the fastest turnaround you can find! Contact Donald P. Dick Air Conditioning to schedule service or sign up for Mr. Cool’s Super Saver Program.