Some projects around your house can be safely done yourself. However, AC repairs aren’t usually DIY because of the complicated and sometimes risky variables at play. For example, there’s the possibility of electrocution, carbon monoxide poisoning, and the risk of damaging an expensive HVAC unit. Therefore, be sure to call an AC technician to fix the following issues.
1) Faulty Wiring
With regular use of an air conditioning unit in Hawaii comes the risk of corroding wires, as well and wires becoming exposed or otherwise damaged. This is particularly a concern if your unit is switching on and off frequently. If faulty wiring is plaguing your air conditioning unit, you may not be able to turn it on.
While hot temperatures sustain through the year in parts of Hawaii, this is particularly inconvenient in the summertime. Homeowners who attempt to DIY a faulty wiring issue on their air conditioner run the risk of electrocution from handling exposed or frayed wires. An AC technician has the expertise to service these types of equipment safely. Also, they can diagnose and resolve your faulty wiring issues with relative ease because of their air conditioning services experience.
2) Corroded, Dirty, Or Frozen Evaporator Coil
The evaporator coil on an air conditioner can experience a multitude of problems over their average 10-15 year lifespan. When cooling your house down, part of that process requires the air conditioner to cool the hot air in the room. This is where the evaporator coil comes in. It contains Freon, a refrigerant that cools down the hot air as it passes over it. If the evaporator coil corrodes, freezes, or gets dirty, that impedes its ability to function.
Dirty coils can cause significant damage to your air conditioner, including a full breakdown. It can also lead to higher energy costs as your air conditioner works hard to make up for lowered efficiency. To return your air conditioner to its former glory, you’ll need to have a tech to clean your unit. Some homeowners try to clean the coil themselves, running the risk of injury to themselves or costly damage to the unit.
A variety of issues can cause an evaporator coil to freeze. One of the most common reasons, however, is that there’s a Freon leak. If your air conditioner has a frozen evaporator coil, you must turn it off immediately. Upon inspection, an AC technician can determine if the frozen coil is due to a Freon leak. These leaks are sometimes caused by corrosion.
Corrosion can damage the evaporator coil if it is exposed to car exhaust or other pollutants. Since most air conditioning units are installed outside, this is a consideration for most homeowners. Corroded evaporator coils are usually replaced as repairs are often expensive. Replacing an evaporator coil is dangerous business, as it requires the handling of Freon. It also requires the use of specialized equipment. It’s always best to leave this type of repair to a professional.
3) Leaking Refrigerant (Freon)
Freon leaks are a serious problem that needs to be addressed immediately. It’s a poisonous gas that is tasteless and odorless, like carbon monoxide. Also like carbon monoxide, it can harm your airways and prevent the circulation of oxygen around your body. Symptoms of Freon poisoning can damage your organs and even cause sudden death. A professional can identify the source of a Freon leak and repair it or install replacement parts. This way, homeowners don’t risk Freon poisoning, and can get their air conditioner back up and running in no time.
Island Comfort technicians can perform these services and more. If you’re in need of AC repair on the Hawaiian Islands of Oahu or Kauai, contact Island Comfort today!
3 Common AC Problems that Residents in Hawaii Struggle With
June 15th, 2021As much as everyone enjoys island life, we can’t deny that air conditioning is a huge relief! AC keeps our homes cool and dry despite the heat and humidity of the tropical summer. Unfortunately, air conditioners sometimes develop problems that affect their performance and the air quality within your home. Here are three of the most common AC problems Hawaiian residents face.
1. Bad Smells Coming from Your AC
Have you been noticing a foul odor wafting from your air ducts? Bad smells are a common AC problem, and one that is easily solved once the source of the smell has been located. A musty or mildewy scent may be a sign that you have mold growing in your AC unit’s evaporator pan. The smell of urine or feces may indicate that you have a rodent infestation. A chemical odor similar to nail polish remover could mean your unit has a refrigerant leak.
Depending on the source of the smell, you may need to have your AC unit and ducts cleaned, contact an exterminator, have your AC checked for refrigerant leaks, or change your AC filters.
2. Air Conditioner Costs Too Much to Run
The residents of Hawaii already pay some of the highest electric rates in the U.S. As much as half of your energy bill may be going to keeping your home cool during the hot days of summer.
There are many steps you can take to reduce your AC bills. The most effective is to have your AC unit regularly checked and maintained. AC units that are adequately maintained run better, cool more efficiently, and cost less to run. Keeping your thermostat set at 78 degrees or above can help you save money.
Ceiling fans can help keep costs down as well. Make sure your doors and windows are closed while the AC is running. Consider planting trees and shrubs around your house to provide shade and keep it cool.
3. AC Isn’t Cooling as Well as It Used to
There could be many reasons why your AC unit isn’t keeping your home as cool as it used to. The problem could lie with the AC unit itself, such as low refrigerant levels, bad or dirty condenser coils, the fan, or electrical issues. The ducts could also be the source of the problem if they’ve become damaged and developed leaks. The thermostat may also be to blame.
If your AC unit isn’t cooling your home properly, schedule a service call with an experienced HVAC technician. They know how to maintain and repair AC units, so they’ll be able to pinpoint the source of the problem and provide a solution.
Island Comfort Has the Solution to All Your AC Problems
Are air conditioner problems causing you to lose your cool? Living in Hawaii, where humidity levels run high, life without cool air gets miserable fast.
Island Comfort Air Conditioning, composed of experienced AC Specialists in Hawaii provides a full range of HVAC services, including installation, maintenance, and repair to homeowners on the islands of Oahu and Kauai. We also do attic insulation, making it easier and cheaper for you to keep your home cool.
If you’ve been experiencing bad smells, higher than usual electric bills, or indoor temperatures that aren’t as comfortable as they should be, give Island Comfort a call at (888) 781-0364. Our certified technicians bring years of experience, and they won’t leave until you’re completely satisfied with the results.
Island Comfort Air Conditioning is dedicated to serving the needs of our customers. We consistently deliver first-rate service, including expert AC installation, maintenance, and repair to customers on the islands of Oahu and Kauai.