Monday, August 22, 2022

How Evaporator & Condenser Coils Help Cool Your Home

air conditioner condensing coils

Air conditioning systems are designed to move heat. Contrary to what most people think, an air conditioner doesn’t actually produce cool air. Instead, it absorbs heat inside of the home and transfers it outdoors. Once several heat transfer cycles have been completed, the interior of the building will be noticeably cooler and more comfortable. Much of this work is accomplished behind the scenes by an air conditioner’s evaporator and condenser coils. While these coils might look similar, they do very different things in the cooling process to produce the effects that people want. Read on to learn more about the condenser vs evaporator coil.

Explore Our Air Conditioning Services Call To Schedule An In-Home Consultation

How an Air Conditioner Evaporator Coil Differs From an AC Condenser Coil

To start, let’s review how a central cooling system does its job. This equipment is divided into two separate components: an indoor component and an outdoor component. They are connected by refrigerant-containing tubes. Refrigerant absorbs considerable amounts of heat. When absorbing and releasing heat, the refrigerant turns from a liquid into a gas and then back into a liquid again according to how much pressure it’s placed under. When cooling systems are on, refrigerant is pumped from the indoor unit to the outside one in a cyclic fashion. Now let’s consider the roles that evaporator and condenser coils play in this process.

Call Today: (732) 349-5059

The Evaporator Coil in Your Cooling System

image of air handing unit or fan coil unit of an air conditioner

You will find the evaporator coil in your air conditioner’s indoor component. This coil is made of copper tubes that carry exceedingly cold refrigerant. Evaporator coils are constantly filled with warm indoor air drawn in by the cooling system’s blower. The refrigerant absorbs the heat from this air in the evaporator coil. Water vapor that surrounds this coil condenses into droplets of water so that indoor humidity is also reduced. This creates indoor air that’s both drier and cooler and the air is forced back indoors so that everyone can enjoy it.

The refrigerant moves alone in the system to do other things. It exits the evaporator coil and is slightly warmer than it was when entering. It then flows through a conduit that’s insulated to the unit that’s parked outside. This is a large-sized cabinet that houses both the condenser coils and the air conditioner compressor. The refrigerant enters the outside unit at the compressor and is pressurized to increase its temperature. In its super-heated state, the refrigerant is able to transfer heat outdoors more efficiently.

Get Started - Click Here To Call Point Bay Fuel

The Condenser Coil in Your Home Cooling System

air conditioner condenser fan close up

If you had the opportunity to see both the evaporator coil and the condenser coil in your air conditioner side-by-side, you’d see that both their materials and their design are somewhat similar. Their functions, however, are quite the opposite. Evaporator coils take in or acquire heat and condenser coils release it. This process of catching and throwing goes on for several cycles until the temperature that’s been set at the thermostat is reached. You may hear the humming of the fans and the compressor during this process as they carry on their roles in the background.

As heated refrigerant vapor quickly lets off heat into the outdoor environment, the refrigerant cools down and becomes a liquid again. This process is helped along by a fan in the outdoor unit that blows outside air through the condenser coil. The cooled, liquid refrigerant is then ready to return to the evaporator coil for another cycle. There is an expansive valve that returns the refrigerant back to its vapor state and cools it, so that it is ready to absorb additional heat on the next round.

Learn More About Our Cooling Services Call To Schedule A Consultation

Taking Care of Your Cooling System’s Coils

image of an hvac contractor performing air conditioner tune-up

As with all other air conditioner components, your unit’s coils require regular upkeep to perform optimally. This applies to both the evaporator coil and the condenser coil. It does not take a lot of effort to keep most problems at bay. Simply schedule an air conditioner tune-up service with a local HVAC company every year. Apart from cleaning and maintaining the system’s coils, your air conditioner technician will also check out all other cooling system components to ensure that these are also in good condition. They have a basic maintenance checklist that they’ll go through that promotes optimum efficiency and long lifespans for air conditioners.

Learn More About Our Cooling Services Explore Our Case Studies

Common Issues With Air Conditioner Coils

Let’s take at some of the most common issues that can affect air conditioner coils:

1. Air Conditioner Corrosion

image of a rusted condenser coil from an old air conditioning unit

Your air conditioner evaporator coil is comprised of both aluminum and copper. These materials won’t rust like steel will, but this does not mean that they are absolutely impervious to corrosion. Cracks and holes may form. These might not be apparent with just a quick visual inspection, but you will definitely notice their impact as the refrigerant in your system slowly leaks out. Your home may be exposed to toxic chemicals as a result. The performance of your cooling system will decline too because it won’t have enough refrigerant to absorb excess heat inside of your home. HVAC companies can find refrigerant leaks and fix them, they can also add new refrigerant to bring everything back to normal.

2. Build-Up of Dirt

Dirt can find its way inside of cooling systems. Particulates can settle on coils to create an insulating layer. This negatively impacts the heat transfer process and prevents the coils from doing what they’re supposed to do. The fans will have to work both harder and longer to help create the right indoor temperature. This leads to expedited wear for these air conditioner components. It also raises your energy consumption and your energy bills. You can avoid all of these things by practicing regular air conditioner maintenance.

Learn More About Our Cooling Services Call To Make An Appointment

3. Air Conditioner Mold Formation

Indoor AC components are both dark and damp at their interior. They don’t have the benefits of sunlight or thermal heat for fighting off bacteria and fungi. Thus, they offer the perfect environment for mold and mildew development. These things can thrive inside of the air conditioner and they can scatter spores throughout your home via your HVAC air ducts. The quality of your indoor air will drop and the health of everyone in the home will decline as well. Excessive mold and mildew can even keep air from flowing through the evaporator coil’s fins.

4. Build-ups of Debris

The air conditioning component on the outside of your home can be infiltrated by various forms of small-sized debris. For instance, twigs, dry leaves, and other organic waste can enter this component. If they drop down to the bottom, they can block the flow of air to the condenser coil. This slows down heat release from the refrigerant into the outside environment. This is something that you can prevent by clearing vegetation away from the perimeter of the outside unit. Regular coil cleanings are also advised.

Problems With Air Conditioner Refrigerant

image of an hvac contractor examining refrigerant levels of an air conditioning unit

There are many different reasons why an air conditioner might stop providing adequate amounts of cooled air. If your air conditioner was working just fine before the issue started, then the culprit may be low refrigerant. There has to be sufficient refrigerant in the coils to collect enough heat from the indoor environment and push it out. Low levels of refrigerant will leave you with a hot home. It can also cause the coils to freeze over and force the entire system to shut down. If either of these things happen, call an HVAC contractor in right away.

 

Conclusion

Air conditioners have an innovative design that cools the home through heat transfer. This system relies on refrigerant passing through its coils and the evaporator coil absorbs heat inside of your home so that the condenser coil can release it outside. They work together to produce the desired results. Stay vigilant to spot developing problems with your air conditioner coils. To prevent problems, schedule annual air conditioning maintenance with a trusted HVAC company in your area.

Click Here To Call & Make An Appointment With Point Bay Fuel

Call Point Bay Fuel For All Of Your HVAC Requirements

Point-Bay-Fuel-Logo
Point Bay Fuel provides high-quality HVAC services in Ocean and Monmouth County, New Jersey. Rest assured, our company only hires the best professionally certified technicians who can address all your heating and cooling services needs, such as boiler repairs, air conditioner installation, furnace replacements, and more. Each one of our friendly techs is skilled, knowledgeable, and experienced in correctly servicing all makes and models of HVAC systems.

Call Point Bay Fuel for highly competitive HVAC service rates in the area. We can improve your home’s comfort and energy efficiency while reducing your energy costs. Should your system require a repair or replacement, we can find the best solution that fits within your budget. We back all our work with a guarantee. Do not hesitate to call Point Bay Fuel to schedule a service appointment today. We offer free, in-home estimates.

Call Now: (732) 349-5059 Read Our Testimonials

Contact us now by calling (732) 349-5059 to speak to one of our home comfort specialists!

The post How Evaporator & Condenser Coils Help Cool Your Home appeared first on Point Bay Fuel.

Monday, August 15, 2022

How To Keep Your Heat Pump From Freezing Up In Summer

frozen heat pump in summer

The heat pump is an important piece of equipment for both heating and cooling. It keeps you cool when summer temperatures run high and keeps you warm when the winter cold blows in. Just remember: The heat pump is a machine, and like other machines, it may experience an issue at some point or another. One typical issue is a heat pump freezing up in summer. You might be surprised at how many homeowners call us because of freezing heat pumps. If you are experiencing this type of problem with your heat pump or just want to prevent it from experiencing avoidable issues in the first place, here are a few things you should know.

Explore Our Heating & Cooling System Services Call To Schedule An Appointment

Everything You Should Know About A Freezing Heat Pump

When you discover that your heat pump is frozen, you may be tempted to panic. Don’t worry! The problem is not as bad as it seems. There are a few reasons your heat pump may be freezing up, and you can learn about each of them right here.

How The Heat Pump Functions

heat pump refrigeration cycle

First of all, a heat pump does not just pump heat to keep it warm in the winter season. This piece of equipment regulates the temperature of your entire house throughout the year. In the winter, the heat pump pumps heat into and throughout your home. In the summer, it pumps heat from inside your home to the outside. The function varies according to the change of seasons.

Call Today: (732) 349-5059

How To Tell If Your Heat Pump Has Frozen

So now you know that heat pumps can freeze, but how can you know if a frozen heat pump is the problem? There are simple clues you can follow. Here are a few of them:

1. Your Heat Pump System Stops Cooling

image of homeowner feeling hot and sticky due to high humidity levels indoors

There are several reasons for a lack of cooling, and a frozen heat pump is one of them. If the heat pump isn’t working, freezing is possibly the reason.

2. Frost & Ice Builds Up On the Heat Pump

If you find frost or ice on the outside HVAC unit during the warm days of summer, it is likely that the coils have frozen. They must be thawed out before you continue to use your system.

Explore Our HVAC Services Call To Make An Appointment

3. Water Is Dripping From The Outside Heat Pump Unit

When water starts leaking out of the heat pump’s compressor, the most probable reason is that the coils have frozen up and your unit is thawing out.

Is your cooling system failing to cool your home? Try going outside and checking the unit for ice, frost, or water leakage. While you are investigating, look for any debris that may be stuck inside the coils as well, as this can also be an issue.

The Causes Of a Frozen Heat Pump

If your heat pump keeps freezing up, it is important to understand why it continues to do so so you can keep the issue from reoccurring. However, sometimes mother nature is the reason and there may be nothing you can do.

High Summer Heat

image of a homeowner experiencing a heat pump not cooling

When temperatures are soaring, it can become more difficult for your heat pump to do its job. If temperatures are over 100 degrees, the system will try but may be unable to keep cooling.

High Humidity In The Air

When the dew point is high along with high temperatures, humidity can be as big a problem for your heat pump as the temps. Humidity makes the heat pump work harder to cool your home, but moisture gathers on the coils and freezes.

Learn More About Our Heat Pump Services Click Here To Call For An Appointment

Open Windows & Doors

When your heat pump is working to cool your home, open doors and windows make it harder for your HVAC system to do its job. This is due to heat coming in and making your unit stay on in the effort to cool down the air. Over time, continuous running can cause freezing and damage to your HVAC system.

The Thermostat On The Heat Pump is Set Too Low

homeowner adjusting thermostat for heat pump system

If you or another member of your household has set the thermostat at too low of a temperature, the unit will keep trying and failing to reach that setting. The constant running at low temps can cause freezing coils.

The Thermostat is Broken

If your thermostat is broken, the unit’s heat pump will react to it and work to accommodate the messed-up temperature settings. Frozen coils may result.

Explore Our Heating & Air Conditioning Services Get Started - Call To Schedule An Appointment

There Is A Problem With Refrigerant Levels

image of an hvac contractor checking ac refrigerant levels

Refrigerant makes the cooling system work, and if there is an issue with your refrigerant, it will affect the entire system. Low refrigerant levels can cause the heat pump to freeze. Even more importantly, if the levels are low due to leakage, you have another problem on your hands. Refrigerants are dangerous and even deadly to humans and animals. You may experience problems with your skin and eyes. Exposure can even cause death. Never try to clean up the problem on your own. Instead, ask certified HVAC technicians for assistance.

The Heat Pump’s Coil Is Dirty

The evaporator coil is where the AC refrigerant is held. The refrigerant is supposed to absorb heated air and cool it down. When the coils are dirty, the refrigerant cannot do its job properly.

Call Point Bay Fuel To Schedule An Appointment

There Is A Problem With The Compressor

It is the heat pump’s compressor that moves the refrigerant. If the compressor does not work as it is supposed to, the heat pump will not be able to keep your home cool and comfortable, and it may freeze.

Improper Airflow In Your HVAC System

image of a heat pump filter that is dirty

For a heat pump to cool your home as it is made to do, it must have good airflow. If the airflow has been reduced or there is a blockage, the pump may freeze.

Why Is Heat Pump Airflow Restricted?

  • The air filter is dirty. A dirty filter blocks the air from flowing through and causes freezing of the heat pump. To avoid this, replace the air filters on a regular basis (usually every 2 to 3 months).
  • The vents are blocked. The return vents inside your home may be covered by furniture or objects mistakenly placed on top of them. If you have children, you may want to look inside the vents to be sure they have not been putting toys or other items in them and causing a blockage.
  • The outdoor unit is crowded. If there are plants, bushes or other objects too close to the outside AC unit, the heat pump will not function correctly and may freeze.
  • The blower is not working right or may not be working at all. If the blower or the relay switch on the fan is not working the way it is supposed to, airflow is restricted and can cause your pump to freeze up. Good airflow is integral for a working heat pump.
Get Started - Call Point Bay Fuel Today

What To Do If Your Heat Pump Breaks Down

If you have investigated and found that your heat pump has been freezing up, turn the system off and allow it to thaw. After a few hours of downtime, turn it on to see if it will work again. If it does not start working, it is time to call a certified HVAC professional and ask for their assistance.

An experienced HVAC technician will come to your home and perform an assessment of your unit. If needed, they will repair and replace any broken parts to get it up and running again.

How To Prevent The Heat Pump From Freezing

image of point bay fuel van depicting hvac services

  • Set the thermostat at a comfortable temperature and leave it there. Frequent changes can cause a problem.
  • Remember to check and change the air filter. When filters get dirty, and air cannot flow through, a frozen heat pump can result. Replace the air filter on a regular basis throughout the year.
  • Maintain good airflow by making sure the vents inside your home are not blocked by furniture or other items.
  • Make sure there is plenty of space around the outside unit of the heat pump.
  • Schedule HVAC checks on a regular basis. A good rule is to schedule time for your HVAC company to come to your home and check your system twice a year. Spring and late fall are good times for check-ups.

In the meantime, if the heat pump freezes, contact the local professionals.

 

Contact Point Bay Fuel for Help With Your Heat Pump

Point-Bay-Fuel-Logo

You can always get first-rate heat pump services in Ocean and Monmouth County, New Jersey when you call Point Bay Fuel. Our top-of-the-line technicians come highly certified and they’re more than capable of handling all of your heat pump installation, replacement, and repair needs. They know how to get the job done right.

When it comes to heat pump service costs, Point Bay Fuel will give you the most competitive rates in the region. Our maintenance team can also ensure that you’re always enjoying optimum levels of comfort and efficiency, and manageable heating and cooling bills. When your heat pump is ready to be replaced, we’ll also make sure that you choose the right one for your budget, your household, and your home heating and cooling goals. The work that we provide is always backed by a solid guarantee. Set up your service appointment now by calling Point Bay Fuel. We offer in-home estimates.

Call Now: (732) 349-5059 Read Our Testimonials

Contact us now by calling (732) 349-5059 to speak to one of our home comfort specialists!

The post How To Keep Your Heat Pump From Freezing Up In Summer appeared first on Point Bay Fuel.

Monday, August 8, 2022

Why Is My AC Compressor Running But Not Cooling?

Residential A/C units

The summer heat and humidity are exhausting for everyone, and the hot days make daily life difficult at home. Air conditioning systems are critical for keeping the home comfortable during the sizzling heat and help homeowners and their families avoid health risks related to the heat.

If the air conditioner consumes power without improving the room temperatures, this is a sign of an air conditioner problem. HVAC experts pinpoint the problem and restore cooling services throughout the home. For some air conditioner models, the underlying issue is the compressor, and HVAC professionals test the AC unit and determine why the compressor works, but it isn’t cooling the home. This article discusses a common problem that homeowners experience with their cooling system – AC compressor working but not cooling.

Explore Our Air Conditioning Services Call To Schedule An In-Home Consultation

The Full Impact of Failing AC Components

Air conditioners consist of many components, underlying parts, and gears. If one major component fails, all surrounding parts work overtime to compensate for the component loss. The effects of wear and tear on the cooling system are dramatic. If the owner doesn’t set up an air conditioner repair quickly, the entire HVAC system could become damaged and faulty.

The compressor is a major AC component. If it fails, the homeowner needs fast air conditioning repairs to correct the problem. Certified HVAC technicians possess knowledge and expertise in heating and cooling services and work quickly to restore air conditioning operation. They can review the most prevalent causes of compressor damage and issues.

Incorrect Thermostat Setup

image of a homeower adjusting thermostat for air conditioning

Heating and cooling technicians assess the condition of the air conditioning installation when searching for common issues. Inferior air conditioning installations cause avoidable problems for the air conditioner, and the system won’t perform as expected. The thermostat is a major component that amateur HVAC technicians get wrong. Amateurs don’t recommend the best thermostat for the air conditioner or suggest products that save the owner money.

Technicians inspect the thermostat for installation issues, such as proper placement. If the thermostat doesn’t gauge the room temperatures properly, the thermostat causes short cycling and higher energy costs. The compressor engages with the system to apply energy to the refrigerant and start heat exchange. Improper thermostat installations cause short cycling and damage the compressor due to frequent starts and stops.

Call Today: (732) 349-5059

The Effects of Direct Sunlight

Direct sunlight on the home and thermostat has lasting effects. Many homeowners plant tall trees around the property to offer adequate shade, block direct sunlight, and keep the home cooler. If the sun shines on the thermostat directly, the thermostat gets inaccurate temperature readings. HVAC professionals recommend installing blinds or hanging blackout curtains to stop direct sunlight on the thermostat, and short cycling won’t happen.

Dirty Air Filters

image of a dirty air conditioner filter

Dirty air filters cause poor indoor air quality and inadequate air circulation. Unhealthy particles circulate in the ductwork and out the registers. These particles include pathogens, allergens, and contaminants pulled into the air conditioner. HVAC professionals recommend changing the air filters at least once a month.

Dirty air filters allow harmful particles to escape the filter and flow into the cooling system. Debris accumulation in the air conditioner causes blockages and proper heat exchange stops. These blockages cause components to fail, and the compressor cannot help the system produce cool air.

Homeowners with pets might need to change air filters more frequently. HVAC experts recommend grooming their pets often to control dander and pet hair.

Learn More About Our Cooling Services Call To Schedule A Consultation

Blocked Air Conditioner Condenser Unit

Condenser coils must remain debris-free to cool the home. Blockages stop proper operations and won’t allow air to pass through the system. Condenser coils in exterior units require seasonal cleaning to remove grass, pine straw, dirt, and other debris that accumulates between seasons. Seasonal cleaning is a part of air conditioner maintenance. Air conditioning experts recommend the services before the homeowner starts the AC for the first time of the season.

Technicians apply chemicals that eat through the debris without damaging the coils on the condenser unit. They inspect the condenser unit for signs of rust or corrosion. An air conditioner tune-up solves these problems and helps homeowners avoid costly repairs.

Frozen Air Conditioning Evaporator Coil

air conditioner condensing coils

The interior air conditioning unit has an evaporator coil to transfer heat to the refrigerant and manage cooling services in the home. Evaporator coils operating as expected won’t freeze or interrupt cool airflow through the ductwork and registers. However, if the evaporator coil freezes, it might mean one of several things.

First, the technician tests the refrigerant levels and tests for a leak. Next, they review the evaporator coil for rust and bent fins. Frozen evaporator coils stop the cooling system from producing cool air, and hot air circulates in the home. Higher energy costs and water puddling outside the air conditioner casing are indicators of frozen evaporator coils. An HVAC professional finds the problem and recommends repairs or replacement services for the evaporator coil.

Air Conditioner Refrigerant Leaks

refrigerant refill for an air conditioner

Refrigerants flow through major components and produce cool air. The liquid converts to a gas, and the air conditioner components release gas into the system. The air conditioner pulls hot air from inside the home and forces it outside, and the refrigerant levels increase or decrease according to the current temperatures. A refrigerant leak prevents the system from completing these processes and cooling the home.

A refrigerant leak isn’t just damaging to the air conditioner but is also dangerous for the environment. If the compressor and major components don’t keep the home cooler, an HVAC technician uses specialized equipment to find the leak and fix it quickly. Inadequate refrigerant levels cause compressor damage and prevent the component from cooling the home. HVAC professionals conduct a fast inspection if the homeowner believes there is a refrigerant leak, and the technicians seal the leak completely.

Learn More About Our AC System Services Explore Our Case Studies

Undersized Air Conditioner

HVAC professionals recommend AC sizes according to the required BTUs needed to cool the home. They calculate the BTUs by finding the air of each living space and multiplying it by 25 BTUs. The technicians add up the total number of BTUs to find the appropriate unit size for the home. If an air conditioner is too small, it won’t cool the property as expected, and the owner pays higher energy costs.

If the HVAC experts determine the existing unit is too small, they recommend replacing the entire system. HVAC professionals offer the owner estimates for a new system. Homeowners might get some coverage for the replacement services if the product warranty is still valid.

Ductwork Damage & Leaks

image of a hvac ductworkThe ductwork circulates cool air from the air conditioner through the registers in each living space. Ductwork damage and breaks allow cool air to leak underneath the home. Warm air from outdoors could leak into the ductwork and circulate instead of the cool air. The home won’t stay at a comfortable temperature with ductwork leaks. HVAC technicians inspect the ductwork for damage and problem areas. They recommend repairs if the ductwork isn’t sealed and allows air leaks.

The Air Conditioner Registers Are Dirty or Blocked

Dust and dirt accumulate on registers if they’re installed on the floors or ceilings. HVAC technicians clean the registers during seasonal cleaning services. The technicians recommend cleaning the registers between seasonal maintenance tasks to manage debris. They vacuum out the ductwork to prevent blockages in or around the registers. Homeowners can keep furniture away from the registers and clean their flooring or ceilings regularly to control debris.

Call To Make An Appointment

Neglected Proper Air Conditioner Maintenance

Manufacturers outline all maintenance tasks for the air conditioning system, and the homeowner hires an HVAC professional to perform maintenance before the summer starts. All air conditioner systems come with a product warranty. A neglected air conditioner won’t perform as expected, and the lack of maintenance nullifies the product warranty.

Maintenance service includes seasonal cleaning, parts lubrication, and testing for all components. Some service providers offer a maintenance contract to help homeowners save on these services. A pre-season tune-up improves system operations and helps homeowners avoid costly repairs.

Exterior Fan Motor Problems

Debris around exterior fan motors causes air conditioner overheating, and the fan motor and compressor become damaged. Overheating fans cause tripping breakers and total system failures. HVAC technicians remove debris around the fan motor and protect the components. Seasonal cleaning services prevent these blockages and overheating risks.

 

Conclusion

Families need reliable cooling services for their homes to stay comfortable all summer long. Sudden air conditioning problems leave households at risk of heat stroke and heat exhaustion, and they cannot finish everyday tasks if it’s too hot in their homes. Compressors are major AC components that might run, but the parts won’t cool the property if compressors are faulty.

Homeowners can schedule repairs and maintenance services to combat compressor problems and other cooling issues. Annual air conditioner maintenance is the best way to find simple problems and improve air conditioner operations without high costs. HVAC technicians offer inspections and troubleshoot signs of HVAC problems.

Homeowners schedule air conditioner repairs, comprehensive inspections, and maintenance to find AC problems and restore cooling services. Technicians prevent further issues if the customer schedules the services at the first of a problem.

Call Point Bay Fuel For All Your HVAC Needs

Point-Bay-Fuel-Logo

At Point Bay Fuel, our HVAC technicians perform heating and cooling services for all property owners in Ocean and Monmouth County, New Jersey. We hire only certified HVAC technicians with expertise and training in all heating and cooling systems. Our team performs tune-ups, new installations, repairs and more.

At Point Bay Fuel, we guarantee competitive rates for all heating and cooling services in the Jersey shoreline area. Our mission is to keep all homeowners and their families comfortable throughout the year. We calculate accurate estimates for all repair and installation costs, and our HVAC technicians help customers on a modest budget get the services they need. Call Point Bay Fuel today to get a comprehensive estimate for repairing or replacing your air conditioner.

Call Now: (732) 349-5059 Read Our Testimonials

Contact us now by calling (732) 349-5059 to speak to one of our home comfort specialists!

The post Why Is My AC Compressor Running But Not Cooling? appeared first on Point Bay Fuel.

Tuesday, August 2, 2022

Why Is My Air Conditioner Leaking Water Inside?

image of an air conditioner leaking water inside the homeMost people feel worried when they notice water coming out of their air conditioner. While a small trickle should not cause alarm, it is best to get your air conditioner checked out. This way, you can find any AC unit problems at their earliest stages. Now, an air conditioner leaking water inside is something you should always pay attention to. This article discusses the most common causes behind water coming out of a cooling system. It also includes the steps you can take to keep your air conditioner problems from worsening.

Explore Our Air Conditioning Services Call To Schedule An In-Home Consultation

How & Why Water Forms in Your Air Conditioner

It is normal for working air conditioners to form water. After all, an air conditioner pulls the outside air, which then passes through the evaporator coils. The coils are filled with cold refrigerant to draw the heat from the air and cool it. This causes water condensation on the coils, forming water droplets on their surface. Some moisture helps keep the coils cool, but the rest of the water is removed through a drainage tube at the air conditioner’s back.

An air conditioner that generates water indicates that your unit works the way it should. As a matter of fact, it should be concerning if your air conditioner doesn’t produce water while it is on. This can be because of a problem, such as the water draining somewhere where it’s not supposed to, causing the coils to freeze instead.

A working air conditioner can generate up to 6 to 20 gallons per day. Humid weather will only increase the amount of water the unit produces. It can be a problem if your unit produces too much water, causing the area to flood.

Call Today: (732) 349-5059

How Do I Know If My Air Conditioner Is Leaking Water?

Water should only come out of the water drain at the back of your air conditioner. Anywhere else should be considered an obvious sign that your cooling unit is leaking water. For example, there could be water pooling under the air conditioner or you may see water dripping down the wall where the air conditioner is installed. Take note of where you noticed the water so you can determine if something is wrong.

Causes For An Air Conditioner That Is Leaking Water

Finding out the likely cause of the leak is the next step. Here are several common reasons:

Clogged Air Conditioner Drain Line

clogged air conditioner drain line

Air conditioners are equipped with a drain pipe or hose. This drain line component is responsible for draining the water out of the drain pan. It does so by pushing the excess water from the air conditioner outside. However, older cooling units tend to develop sludge and debris on their drain pipe’s inner walls. As a result, the water is blocked, and the water pools in the drain pan. This is likely the reason for the leak, especially if you notice that your drain pan gets full every time your air conditioner switches on.

Learn More About Our Cooling Services Call To Schedule A Consultation

Dirty Air Conditioner Air Filter

Dirty air filters are caused by infrequent HVAC air filter replacements and an old air conditioner. Dirty air filters stop proper airflow in your air conditioner. This traps moisture inside, and the moisture then turns into ice crystals on coils and air filters. These ice crystals thaw and leak out of the drain pan as your air conditioner keeps running.

Low Air Conditioner Refrigerant Levels

image of air conditioner refrigerant

If you notice that your home isn’t cooling as it did before, even with the same settings, it may be because of low refrigerant levels. This issue leads to water leaks because it causes pressure loss inside the air conditioner. Reduced pressure can result in frozen coils and a surplus in moisture that will cause drain pan overflow. Another symptom that you have low refrigerant or a refrigerant leak is you hear a hissing sound from your air conditioner when you turn it on. Call a professional HVAC technician if you spot these signs.

Learn More About Our Cooling Services Explore Our Case Studies

Air Conditioner Has a Leaking Or Full Drain Pan

A full drain pan can overflow. An air conditioner can drain as much as 20 gallons of water a day during the summer, especially on highly humid days. Remove the drain pan plug so the water can flow out. You might have a damaged or leaky drain pan as well. Drain pans can rust or crack as time passes. Inspect your drain pan for damage if you have an air conditioner that’s several years old.

Ice On Air Conditioner Evaporator Coils

frozen air conditioner in summer

Ice formation on the evaporator coils happens because of condensation that doesn’t have anywhere else to go. This can be due to dirty air filters that keep the air from passing through the cooling system. This causes ice to form and melt, leaking water into the drain pan.

Call To Make An Appointment

Broken Air Conditioning Condensate Pump

Some air conditioning models have condensate pumps. This component forces water to the outside. If you suddenly see unusual leaks and your unit has a condensate pump, this could be the culprit. Hire an HVAC expert to carry out a pump repair or replacement.

Incorrect Air Conditioner Installation

image of an air conditioner installation

Faulty air conditioner installation is an often-overlooked reason for air conditioner water leaks. For instance, water can flow out if the outside AC unit isn’t placed on a level surface. Water may fill unevenly in the overflow tub as well. This results in water spilling and leaking before the tub gets full. If you have a window cooling unit, it may be angled down, so the water leaks inside. The unit needs to be tilted back a bit so the water can drain to the back. Improper installation can also cause leaks in your relatively new air conditioner. Have a professional HVAC installation team help you to prevent problems like these from occurring in the first place.

Learn More About Our Cooling Services Call To Schedule An Appointment

Work with a Professional HVAC Contractor

image of point bay fuel van depicting hvac services

Leave air conditioner installation, maintenance, and repair in the capable hands of HVAC professionals to avoid common AC problems. Proper installation can save you from a lot of hassle down the line. Aside from being assured of proper system installation, you also receive benefits such as a professional warranty, quality units and components, and correct after-sales support. This way, your air conditioner is well taken care of, and you get optimum performance.

Get Started - Call Point Bay Fuel Today

Conclusion

Air conditioner problems are bound to happen, especially as your HVAC system ages. It is crucial that you know how to spot early problem signs of an air conditioner, like leaks. This will help you quickly return your unit to good working condition. Professional support can also help you optimize your air conditioner’s function, extend its lifespan, and ensure you have a comfortable home, whether it be during the summer or winter.

Call Point Bay Fuel For All Of Your HVAC Needs

Point-Bay-Fuel-Logo
For high-quality HVAC services in Ocean and Monmouth County, New Jersey, do not hesitate to call Point Bay Fuel. Our team of professionally certified and highly skilled technicians can perform excellent heating and cooling installations, replacements, repairs, maintenance, and more. Our friendly techs are equipped with years of experience and extensive knowledge to service your HVAC system correctly.

Point Bay Fuel offers highly competitive HVAC service prices in the area. Our tune-up services can enhance indoor air quality, comfort, and energy efficiency while reducing your home’s heating and cooling bills. We can recommend the best, and most budget-friendly HVAC repair or replacement system should you need one for your home. We back all of our work with a guarantee. Call Point Bay Fuel today to book a service appointment. We offer in-home estimates.

Call Now: (732) 349-5059 Read Our Testimonials

Contact us now by calling (732) 349-5059 to speak to one of our home comfort specialists!

The post Why Is My Air Conditioner Leaking Water Inside? appeared first on Point Bay Fuel.