Preparing for Summer

A window unit air conditioner can allow you to easily cool specific rooms in the home. However, these units can be less reliable than large central air conditioning systems. When your window unit AC is starting to malfunction, there are a few steps that can help you to get it working again.

Check the Coils

The coils of a window air conditioning unit can be prone to becoming coated in a thick layer of dust that can insulate them. In addition to limiting the cooling ability of the air conditioner, this may also lead to the motor in it overheating. The dust on the coils will allow for hot air to start to accumulate in the unit by restricting the airflow through it. Eventually, this can lead to the system becoming unable to provide cool air while also regularly turning off as a result of overheating.

Clean the Filter

Unlike central air conditioning systems, window units will often have a reusable air filter. Rather than completely replacing this component, you will need to periodically remove it so that it can be washed and dried. Failing to do this can restrict the air intake of the system, which can have direct and indirect consequences for its performance.

If your air conditioner is not cooling effectively or seems to be having trouble moving enough air, it could indicate that this filter needs to be cleaned. To make sure that you thoroughly clean the filter, you may want to soak it in water for at least a half-hour before scrubbing it. This will loosen much of the dirt and dust that has collected on it so that the airflow can be restored.

Monitor the Temperature of the Output Air

If you suspect that your air conditioning system is not performing correctly and cleaning the coils and air filter have failed to remedy the problem, you may need to spend a few moments monitoring the air blowing out of the system. This can provide valuable clues as to the problem that is impacting the system. Little or no air could indicate a problem with the blower. Conversely, if the system is blowing out hot air, it may indicate that the compressor is malfunctioning or the refrigerant levels are too low. For most homeowners, this can be an easy way as to confirm whether the problem with the unit is serious enough to warrant contacting an AC repair contractor to service the unit.

For more information on AC repair, contact a local HVAC company.