There’s another hot Ohio summer just ahead, but don’t put up with an overheating AC. Your central air conditioner carries a heavy load removing heat from your home during the hot season. In some circumstances, however, the AC itself can become a casualty of excess heat. Critical parts in the system are at risk of permanent damage if certain conditions result in an overheating AC.
To protect your air conditioning components — as well as your indoor comfort — this summer, here are some factors to be aware of:
- Replace the air filter monthly. A clogged system air filter reduces airflow and causes the air conditioner to run extended cycles to maintain the thermostat setting. Eventually, the system may be running almost nonstop. This not only drastically increases energy consumption, it can overheat the compressor motor and cause this expensive component to fail prematurely. Replacing the filter monthly to maintain proper airflow not only protects vital system parts, it supports maximum cooling performance and low monthly operating costs.
- Service the condenser coil. The outdoor condenser coil is the part that disperses heat extracted from your home into outdoor air. Dust and dirt coating coil surfaces, however, as well as leaves and other obstructions blocking the vent slats in the housing, can interfere with proper heat dissipation. Annual AC preventive maintenance by a professional HVAC contractor includes coil inspection and cleaning to sustain proper condenser coil function and prevent an overheating AC.
- Verify the refrigerant charge. Insufficient refrigerant circulating between the coils of your air conditioner can cause heat to accumulate as the compressor runs longer cycles to compensate. A low refrigerant charge inflicts excess wear and tear on critical components and also triggers automatic system shutdowns that deprive your house of cool air. A qualified HVAC service technician has the expertise and specialized equipment to check the refrigerant charge as well as pinpoint and repair any leaks — the most common reason for low refrigerant.
For professional advice and qualified service to prevent an overheating AC this summer, contact Energy 1 Heating & Air Conditioning.
Energy 1 Heating & Air Conditioning
1 (440) 246-5440
Serving the Lorain, OH Area