Air conditioning units comprise several different components that work as a team to provide cool or warm air. Amongst them, the condenser plays an important role in condensing the refrigerant from gas to liquid state. If it were to malfunction, you would not be able to determine whether it needs replacement or if something else is causing the problem and you need air conditioning service repair. Therefore, let’s take a look at some popular signs & symptoms that will help you diagnose a bad HVAC condenser.
Reduced Airflow
The first problem you might encounter with a bad HVAC condenser unit is reduced airflow. The problem, in this case, is that you will hardly notice it and would think that the unit is working fine. However, if you were to consult an expert, they will inform you that the HVAC airflow is less than normal.
Even though determining reduced airflow is a bit complicated, it is also amongst the first signs that highlight a bad HVAC condenser. Therefore, if there is a problem with the condenser unit, it will struggle to perform and the airflow will reduce.
If you are still skeptical about it, try observing your friend’s or relative’s HVAC unit for airflow. You shall observe a huge difference.
Not Enough Cool Air Or Blowing Hot Air
The next symptom might be that your HVAC unit does not produce cool air or simply blows hot air. This means that there is something wrong with the condenser unit. Plus, the condenser coils might also be the culprit. It might be that they are blocked due to dirt and debris accumulation.
If that is the case, your HVAC unit will continue running but won’t be able to cool down the room. At the same time, you should also ensure that the refrigerant level is appropriate. As a result, your compressor will work harder than usual to achieve the set temperature. Ultimately, increasing your energy bills.
Reduction In Energy Efficiency
In addition to your HVAC unit not cooling enough air or not blowing air, you will notice that its energy efficiency has decreased as well. In this case, the unit will continue to perform, utilizing more electricity as mentioned earlier.
The best way to spot this problem is by observing your monthly bills. If you notice that the bills are suddenly rising, you should get your HVAC unit checked. Ignoring the issue will only add to the existing problem and might end up in expensive repairs or replacements.
Leaks Are Spotted
Spotting HVAC leaks is a bit tricky but is a sure sign that something is seriously wrong with your unit. This type of problem cannot be ignored and should be fixed immediately. If your condenser or coils are leaking, you shall be able to observe leaking refrigerant.
There are several factors that can cause leaks but should not remain unchecked. Leaking AC refrigerant puts the entire unit under a tremendous amount of pressure, which weakens the components. In this case, as well, you will notice that the unit is not throwing cool air.
And since leaks mostly occur in unreachable areas, you will need to hire an expert who can fix the problem for you.
Condenser Is Overgrown
The condenser takes quite a bit of beating as it is exposed to the outside environment. Be it thunderstorms, extreme snow, rain, or sandstorms, the condenser along with several other components are the only ones to face it all.
Therefore, it is highly likely that debris, shrubs, and leaves get stuck, impeding its performance. This is why experts recommend placing the outside unit in relatively open and clear areas that are free of any trees or potentially damaging items.
If you observe that trees, shrubs, or bushes have outgrown the condenser, you will need to prune them. This will keep the condenser free of any trouble for years to come. At the same time, make sure that the condenser along with its coils is free of dirt and dust by regularly cleaning them.
The outdoor units require as much maintenance and attention as do the indoor units. It is essential to ensure that your HVAC unit performs at its best for decades.
Final Word
Even though HVAC condensers are designed to last for years, some external factors can influence their lifespan. With that said, make sure that you service your HVAC unit at least twice a year from HVAC repair services McLean to ensure maximum effectiveness and efficiency.
