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Like any home appliance, air conditioning unit need a little TLC to deliver ideal performance. It's the Air conditionings that haven't been kept in first-class condition that tend to struggle most in hot weather.
To ensure you don't lose your cool once the weather warms up, we asked the experts at Consumer Reports and air conditioning unit pros to identify the most common problems that crop up with window and central air conditioners. They highlighted 8 issues to repair now. Plus, you'll discover our list of leading a/c for little, medium, and big spaces, below.
The No. 1 problem affects both window units and central AC systems, and-- we enjoy to report-- it's the most convenient to repair. Here are 8 concerns to ask that will assist you keep your A/C at peak performance all summertime long.
1. Is the Filter Dirty?
No matter which type of air conditioning unit you have, a clogged filter restricts air flow, reducing performance and minimizing the capability to efficiently cool the air. If you haven't cleaned the filter in your window or portable air conditioning unit recently, make certain you do and after that examine it regularly. For main Air Conditioning systems, check the filter manufacturer's recommendation for when to switch in a brand-new one. In CR's tests, filters last anywhere from 3 to 12 months.
Just keep in mind that if your system is running constantly or if you have pets, you will require to alter your filters more frequently. "When we get calls about central air conditioning units that aren't working well, nine times out of 10 it's due to the fact that of an unclean filter," states Stewart Unsdorfer, owner of Central Heating & A/c in Cleveland.
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2. Is It Too Sunny Inside?
If your window AC remains in a window that gets direct sunshine in the heat of the day, it'll have to work harder to cool your space. If you have an option, move it to a shadier area. If not, keep your tones and curtains drawn throughout the day to obstruct the sun and avoid it from warming up your house.
3. Is Warm Air Leaking In? Check the seals around your window Air Conditioner to make certain hot air isn't getting in (or cold air isn't leaking out). Reseal around your unit with weather stripping if essential.
" A lot of new window units come with insulation panels to position over the plastic adjustable side panels," states Chris Regan, CR's senior ac system tester. "But to maximize performance, you'll still require to use weather stripping around the border of the system. And always use the maker's setup and safety hardware."
4. Is Your Window AC Vibrating? Air conditioning system make a lot of noise, including from the whir of the fan and the noise of the compressor biking on and off. These noises are normal. However if you hear a vibrating sound, it may mean that your system was set up incorrectly. Make sure it's sitting firmly in the window and evaluate the installation instructions in your owner's handbook to verify that no steps were missed out on.
Central A/C Checklist
5. Is the Thermostat on the Right Setting?
With a smart or programmable thermostat, you can more quickly manage the temperature in your house so that it's comfy when you're there and a bit warmer Click for info when you're not. If the temperature appears off, ensure the thermostat isn't exposed to direct sunlight, which might trigger it to register the incorrect temperature level.
6. Are the Registers Dirty or Blocked?
If you have a forced-air cooling and heating system, regularly vacuum the signs up to eliminate any dust buildup. Make certain that furnishings and other objects aren't obstructing the air flow through your registers.
7. Are Plants Crowding the Compressor?
The outside compressor for main air needs appropriate air flow to work correctly, so make certain there's at least 2 to 3 feet of area between the compressor and any plants or structures. There should likewise be 5 feet of clearance between the top of the system and any trees above.
8. Did You Keep In Mind the Annual Examination? An assessment by a HEATING AND COOLING (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) service technician can catch any serious issues before they worsen and leave you hot and troubled. The specialist will examine all the moving parts, in addition to the refrigerant, and recharge the system if essential.
Required a New AC?
If your space ac system is beyond repair, you can discover one that did well in our tests for just around $200 for a little unit and upwards of $800 for a big one. Ensure you match the size of the air conditioner to the space it's implied to cool. Listed below, we note models in each size that carried out well in CR's tests. You can find more in our complete a/c unit ratings.