Houston Homeowner’s Guide to AC Repair and Maintenance
The humidity of the Texas Gulf Coast is relentless. Heat and humidity will force your air conditioning system to work harder than any other area in the United States. This high intensity strain leads to common, recurring repair issues that will dramatically affect your home’s comfort level. Our guide walks you through the most common AC repair issues that Houston homeowners encounter with a simple rule of thumb to fix your HVAC system.
Clogged Condensate Drain Lines
Your HVAC system is designed to remove the humidity out of your home’s air. On the Texas Gulf Coast, your system works overtime because humidity is so high. As the moisture is removed it also carries dust, microorganisms, pet dander and other contaminants. The mix of the moisture and the particulate matter can create a sludge that can block your condensate drain line.
Unfortunately, many homeowners do not know if their condensate drain is clogged until their drain pan is full and overflows. The cost to flush the drain line is considerably less than the potential water damage that can result in the overflow.
Capacitor Failure
Your HVAC system capacitor is like a high voltage battery that provides the spark for your HVAC system’s motor to start. The extreme Southeast Texas heat can cause this component to overheat and fail. The sign your capacitor has failed is a loud humming from the outdoor condenser or the HVAC system will simply not start.
Capacitors vary in cost depending on the manufacturer and the size of the unit. In addition, replacing your capacitor is not a DIY project and it is best completed by a trusted HVAC technician.
Refrigerant Leaks
Your HVAC system coils are under extraordinary pressure circulating refrigerant to move heat out of a high temperature area. This pressure can cause leaks in the coils and joints. Leaks in your HVAC system’s refrigerant manifest by your AC running constantly without producing cooler air. Ice can also form on the outdoor condenser or the evaporator coil on the indoor unit.
Refrigerant leak repair is not a DIY project. Repairing the coils and replenishing the refrigerant is best done by a professional.
Frozen Evaporator Coils
When the airflow of your HVAC system is restricted, evaporator coils can freeze. Commonly, there are two reasons why airflow is restricted: dirty AC filter or low refrigerant. When the evaporator coil freezes, you will see a block of ice develop on the indoor unit.
One solution for this issue could be very affordable. Let the coils thaw and replace your AC filter. If the cause is a refrigerant leak, it is time to call in a Comfort Care Specialist.
Failed Contactors
The electrical switch that controls your thermostat is called the contactor. With the number of times an HVAC system turns off and on during a Houston summer can cause the switch to weld shut.
If your HVAC system stays running even when your AC is turned off at the thermostat it is a sure sign of a failed contactor.
Systems Age and How They Affect These HVAC System Components
Keep in mind if your HVAC system is approaching the downhill side of its lifespan (usually 12-15 years old), repairs may become more frequent. Adhering to the “$5,000” rule means that you multiply the age of the unit by the repair cost. If the result is over $5,000, it means that it is typically better to replace your unit that repairs the unit.
Find a Trusted Houston AC Repair Specialist Today
Don’t let a cooling crisis catch you off guard during the relentless Texas weather. Whether you need a simple drain line flush or a complex component replacement, our local experts are ready to restore your home’s comfort. Use our Dealer Locator Tool to connect with a certified professional in your neighborhood who can help you decide whether to repair or replace your system.