Ayesha Miles – CRL Health

AC Repair Round Rock can be costly, but regular maintenance reduces energy costs and prolongs the life of your system. It also improves air quality and decreases humidity levels in the home.

Changing filters, cleaning the exterior unit, and resetting tripped breakers are simple fixes that anyone can do. However, if you suspect a refrigerant leak or other electrical issues, call a professional.

1. Evaporator Coil Clog

Over time your evaporator coil can become coated in dirt, dust, and airborne debris. This coating inhibits the coil’s ability to absorb heat from your home’s air, and will diminish its overall performance capacity.

Clogged evaporator coils usually occur because of a lack of regular cleaning and maintenance. However, they can also be caused by a dirty air filter, low refrigerant, a malfunctioning blower fan or a poor installation job.

Regardless of the cause, a clogged evaporator coil is a serious problem. It can lead to hissing and banging sounds, inefficient cooling, increased utility bills, poor indoor air quality and even the need for costly AC repair.

One of the first symptoms of a clogged evaporator is a puddle under your unit. The puddle could mean that the coil is frozen and melting water is collecting beneath it, or that the system is leaking refrigerant into your home. Either way, it’s important to turn off your air conditioning and call a professional right away.

Another sign of a clogged evaporator may be the smell of refrigerant in your home. Older AC systems typically use R-22 refrigerant which has a distinctive and pungent odor. Newer systems often use R-410A which has no odor and is nontoxic.

A clogged evaporator coil will cause your air conditioner to short cycle. The coil will be unable to absorb and transfer enough heat from the air to your home’s air, so it will shut off before the proper temperature is achieved. This puts unnecessary stress on your AC and can cause damage to your evaporator coil, compressor and other components.

To avoid a clogged evaporator, regularly clean your AC coil with a brush or vacuum attachment. Make sure the power to your air conditioner is off before opening the access panel, and then carefully remove any buildup of dirt or sediment from the coil. Also, make sure to drain the condensate pan regularly and keep it sealed and free of blockages. It’s also a good idea to change your air filters frequently and ensure that all of your vents are open and unobstructed.

2. Failed Contactor

The air conditioning mechanism that directs the flow of electricity to the compressor and fan motor is called a contactor. It is a critical component of the system but like other electrical components it can wear out or develop faults over time due to continuous operation and environmental factors. When the contactor fails, it disrupts the normal flow of energy and may cause intermittent or even complete AC failure. Understanding common causes of contactor problems and the related symptoms can help homeowners and technicians address them promptly to restore reliable operation.

Basically, the contactor is an electromechanical switch that connects and breaks the power supply lines running through an appliance or equipment. It consists of a metal coil, stationary contacts, and movable ones that latch onto each other when the coil is energized to close the circuit. When the coil is de-energized, the movable contacts separate to break the current and stop the equipment from operating. Over time, the mechanical shock and vibration from continued use can damage the coil and the movable contacts and make them difficult to latch or separate correctly.

One of the most common signs that a contactor is failing is short-cycling, which is when the air conditioner turns on and off frequently in quick succession. This is often because the contactor fails to stay closed for a proper amount of time, leading it to run more than necessary to cool your home.

Another sign is a chattering sound that can occur when the metal plunger and contactor coils erode. When this happens, they begin to vibrate and make a clicking noise as they attempt to latch and separate. This is an indication that it’s time to replace the contactor and should be done as soon as possible.

Faulty contactors can also introduce power surges and fluctuations into the AC circuit, causing other components within the system to overheat. If you notice discoloration, burn marks or pitting on the contacts, this is a clear sign that the contactor needs to be replaced. It is important to consult with a licensed HVAC technician to ensure the replacement is done correctly and doesn’t cause additional problems.

3. Failed Blower Motor

Blower motors are vital to the air conditioning system, as they blow heated or cooled air throughout the home through vents. When a blower motor fails, it can significantly reduce the comfort and efficiency of your AC system. A few symptoms of a failing blower motor include a slapping sound, limited fan speeds, and unusual smells. If you notice any of these signs, contact your local HVAC professionals as soon as possible to schedule a professional inspection and repair service.

Weak or No Airflow

Weak or no airflow from your AC vents can indicate a variety of problems, including clogged filters, dirty or leaky ducts, and an aging blower motor. However, the most common cause of weak or no airflow is a faulty blower motor, which may be suffering from a dirty or defective capacitor or simply reaching the end of its lifespan. In some cases, a professional can clean the blower motor or replace it entirely.

Unusual Noises

An HVAC technician can diagnose a failing blower motor by listening for unusual noises during the air conditioning system’s operation. A slapping sound, for example, could indicate that a foreign object has fallen inside the blower motor fan blades and is causing damage to the motor itself. Unusual noises can also indicate that the motor is consuming too much energy and is overheating.

A squealing or screeching sound could mean that the blower motor bearings are beginning to wear out. If the blower motor is overheating, it may produce a burning smell, which is a sign of danger and a fire hazard.

Check the breaker or fuse box to ensure that it hasn’t tripped or blown a switch or fuses. If there’s no problem with the circuit breaker, turn on your furnace and verify that the thermostat is set correctly. Next, inspect the blower motor relay, capacitor, and control board for voltage. If the control board is faulty, it will fail to initiate the blower fan on/off function based on the thermostat demand. A multimeter can verify that the control board’s voltage is correct.

4. Refrigerant Leaks

Your AC system needs refrigerant to absorb and release heat in your home, but a leak can cause the entire thing to break down. Refrigerants are highly hazardous to work with and must only be handled by licensed professionals who have the proper safety equipment. If you notice signs of a refrigerant leak, contact your local air conditioning repair company right away.

Your system’s refrigerant circuit is typically made of copper and structured like a coil. Throughout the system, a series of twists and bends are soldered together in order to form the coiled structure. While this design may be sturdy enough to handle high pressure, it’s not immune to corrosion. Over time, natural formic acid eats at the copper and causes leaks.

Fortunately, a simple repair can usually take care of the issue. HVAC technicians will use specialized tools to locate the source of the leak and seal it using epoxy or solder. Depending on the severity of the leak, a technician may also replace the coil or lineset in order to keep your cooling system running efficiently.

The most common sign of a refrigerant leak is low cooling efficiency. The air from the vents will seem warm rather than cool, and it will take longer for your home to cool down. Another symptom is an unusually damp or musty smell in your house. The smell is caused by the evaporator coils absorbing moisture from your home’s air.

Finally, if you hear hissing sounds coming from your vents, it could be due to excess pressure in the compressor. This problem is serious and requires immediate professional attention.

Home Improvement

How to Protect Your Investment With Proper Window Installation

November 12, 2024 Ayesha Miles

When you hire a pro, you reduce your risk of injury as well as damage to your home. You also protect your investment by having the work done correctly.

Before the new window is installed, it is inspected to confirm it fits properly. Shims are used to keep the window centered in the opening and long screws are inserted into the main vertical sides of the frame known as jambs. Contact Window Installation Dripping Springs for professional help.

The frame of a window plays an important role in aesthetics and functionality. It also determines the energy efficiency of the window. The type of frame material you choose has a direct impact on these factors. Luckily, there are a lot of choices available for today’s homeowners.

Depending on the material, you can choose between wood, vinyl, aluminum, or fiberglass. Each has different advantages and disadvantages. The choice you make depends on your budget, maintenance needs, and energy requirements.

Wood frames are popular due to their warm look and insulating properties. They can be stained or painted for easy maintenance and to enhance the style of your home. However, they aren’t as durable as vinyl or aluminum. They can also be more costly than other materials.

To get the best results from your window installation project, it is essential to have the right tools and techniques. A circular or reciprocating saw is needed to cut the lumber for the frame. A nail gun is helpful for securing the framing members. A level is helpful for maintaining a straight and even alignment of the frame. The opening of the window should be cleaned and free of debris to ensure a proper fit of the new window.

If you are replacing an existing window, it is important to carefully remove the existing sash and panels without damaging the frame or wall. This is often done while wearing protective gear. A utility knife is used to cut through any caulk or sealant that may be holding the window in place. Once the sash is removed, the frame can be disassembled and removed from the window opening.

Once the window opening is clear, a sheet of sheathing, such as OSB or plywood, should be installed. This creates a weather-resistant barrier and provides a flat surface for siding or trim installation. It is also recommended to add insulation around the frame for improved energy efficiency.

Before installing the window, shims are usually placed around the frame to provide a tight fit. This prevents air leakage and helps maintain a straight and even alignment. If you are using shims, they should be cut to the exact dimensions of the window.

Sash

The sash is the interior portion of a window that holds the glass panels. Window sashes are designed to slide up and down on track, which is hidden within the frame, allowing you to open and close your windows. The sash also contains a locking system to add an extra level of security to your home. Window sash are made from wood, vinyl or fiberglass, and can be crafted in a variety of designs. They can be either glazed or unglazed.

The main function of a window is to allow air and light into the home while keeping out drafts, insects and dirt. While most homeowners don’t spend a lot of time thinking about their window sashes, they become aware of problems with them when they can’t slide or close or experience water leaks. In most cases, these issues are easy to resolve, but some may require professional attention.

Oftentimes, air infiltration, drafts and stuck sashes can be caused by misalignment or worn-out components. A little maintenance can go a long way toward preventing these problems. Insulation and weather-stripping can also help prevent drafts and leaks.

Window sash can be replaced with new, energy-efficient ones for improved functionality and efficiency. The cost of a replacement sash can vary based on the type of window, its size and any additional features, such as weatherstripping or energy-efficient glass. Vinyl sashes tend to be the most affordable, while wood and fiberglass/composite sashes are more expensive but offer more durability and aesthetics.

When replacing a window sash, it’s important to pay special attention to the alignment of the frame and sash. This can be accomplished by measuring the gap between the frame and sash and ensuring that it’s even. If it’s not, you can use elastomeric caulk to fill in any gaps less than 1/4 inch wide. For gaps wider than that, you’ll need to first use a foam-rubber backer rod to block air.

Another way to improve sash alignment is by drilling 3/8-inch-diameter holes in the side jambs, through the sill and up into the head jamb. You can then use a product like polyurethane foam or similar, low-pressure, minimally expanding foam to fill in the holes.

Caulking

Caulking is a vital part of window installation. It ensures a tight seal to prevent heat loss and cold air transfer, which can reduce energy costs for heating and cooling. It also prevents water from infiltrating the wall cavity, which can cause rot and mold. The type of caulking used depends on the weather and moisture conditions in your home. A contractor can recommend the best products for your needs.

Typically, installers use acrylic latex for dry environments and vinyl latex for damp areas. They’ll also choose a color that matches the window frames or casing. A caulking gun makes application easy. It is a good investment, as it will be used many times during the life of your windows.

Installers may use shims to adjust the window’s position. This ensures it sits squarely and level within the frame, so it opens, closes, and locks smoothly. They’ll also check the opening with a level to make sure it is plumb and square, and that the corners are at perfect 90-degree angles for proper functionality and performance.

Before caulking, install any necessary hardware for operation. For example, wood windows need a drip cap to direct rainwater away from the window. This helps avoid water damage, especially in the sill pan and membrane. Some windows don’t have a drip cap, so they require a sloped sill to redirect water.

When caulking, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your product. For example, some clapboard cladding requires that you leave the space between the metal flashing and the cladding open for drainage. In addition, you should create a back dam by caulking between the inside edge of the jamb extension and the rough opening on the bottom and up each side 6 in. or so. This will prevent water from infiltrating the wall cavity below the window, which can cause rot and mold.

Finally, add exterior trim or casing to match your home’s style and cover the raw interior face of the frame and window jamb. This improves the look of your new window and provides another barrier against drafts.

Installation

Your window installation is a big job that involves cutting, caulking, and cleaning. It is best to protect indoor furniture, carpets, and rugs with drop cloths or plastic sheets. Outdoors, remove flower pots, barbecue grills, patio furniture, and other breakable items from the work area. Also, clear a path for the installers to get around your home, including the windows they are working on.

The installation process varies depending on the type of window, but most projects are completed in one day. The installers will remove the old window and frame, replace the existing window sash, and install new sills, mullions, jamb extensions, and other necessary hardware. The window is then hung and sealed, ensuring that air infiltration and water penetration are minimized. The installers may use weep strips and a weather-resistant barrier to manage moisture, and they seal and caulk the interior and exterior of the window for optimum performance and energy efficiency.

When the work is complete, the installers clean up and haul away all debris. They may also dispose of any discarded materials, including old windows, or they may leave them on site for pickup at a later date. It’s best to discuss your expectations with the salesperson and installers before the project begins. It is a good idea to communicate the type of window you prefer and any additional upgrades like low-e coatings or insulation. This will help avoid any misunderstandings and confusion during the installation process.

Always choose a licensed, insured window company that offers products from reputable manufacturers. This will ensure that you are getting a high-quality product installed according to industry standards. Then, follow the manufacturer’s instructions to avoid any problems. For example, the installation manuals for some windows require the use of a specific type of gasket to prevent leaks. Other windows need a vapor barrier to control condensation, while others require a weep strip for proper drainage. It is important to read the manuals carefully and understand what is required for your particular type of window before the installation begins. This will save you time, money, and frustration.

Author: Ayesha Miles

AC Repair – Common Causes and Symptoms of Contactor Failure