Paying attention is a troubleshooting step that every person can take. There are some common noises that should be expected from an AC unit. There should be the calm whir of air movement coming through the vents. If the sound is uneven or sputters, this should be a worry. If the sputtering sound is the same from any room on the same floor, this is verification of an issue Air Conditioning Repairs Harrisburg . A unit that begins to display a high level of vibration is letting you know that something is not quite right. This should not be a symptom that is overlooked.
On the outside there is at least one condensing unit. If the fan in the unit is turning, make sure that it does not sound as if there is something rubbing against it. Clicking, knocking, or bumping is not a good thing. Sometimes, objects like twigs and rocks can lodge between the fan blades and housing.
Using your hands to feel is a free troubleshooting strategy. With the hands, check around windowsills. If it feels like droplets of water are accumulating, this might be an issue. It is possible that the unit is too big. This could ultimately grow into a mold condition, which can have health ramifications.
After cleaning the cooling vents, make it a practice of inspecting them on a regular basis for dirt. If the dirt accumulates rapidly, it could possibly be a sign that the ducts themselves are rapidly building up dirt as well. Besides a growing fire risk, this can be a tell tale indication that dirt is building up within the mechanical parts of the machine. Dust will absorb oil from bearings and fittings, and can develop problems quicker than anticipated.
Looking is one more step in troubleshooting. Some thermostats have visual sensors that show errors when they happen. This would be the first place to start. Examine the outside condensing unit and determine if condensation is flowing more than usual. The unit should be resting on a concrete slab. This will make it easier to identify any type of abnormal looking accumulation of fluids.
These easy techniques can preserve the life of an AC unit. The added value is that these allow one to determine issues before the unit has actually stopped working. And, they are cost-free.
These are also methods that the whole family can get involved with. And when these symptoms happen, it is time to get an AC expert involved. This is a more cost effective route to take, and can preserve the comfort of the family members.