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Like any device, ac system need a little TLC to deliver optimal efficiency. It's the Air conditioners that have not been kept in first-class condition that tend to struggle most in hot weather.
To make certain you do not lose your cool when the weather heats up, we asked the professionals at Consumer Reports and air conditioning unit pros to identify the most typical problems that appear with window and central air conditioning conditioners. They highlighted 8 problems to troubleshoot now. Plus, you'll discover our list of leading ac system for small, medium, and big spaces, below.
The No. 1 issue impacts both window units and main A/C systems, and-- we enjoy to report-- it's the easiest to repair. Here are eight concerns to ask that will assist you keep your Air Conditioning at peak performance all summer season long.
1. Is the Filter Dirty?
No matter which type of air conditioner you have, a clogged up filter limits airflow, reducing effectiveness and reducing the capability to effectively cool the air. If you have not cleaned the filter in your window or portable air conditioner just recently, make sure you do and after that check it regularly. For central A/C systems, check the filter maker's recommendation for when to switch in a brand-new one. In CR's tests, filters last anywhere from three to 12 months.
Simply keep in mind that if your system is running continuously or if you have animals, you will need to change your filters regularly. "When we get calls about central air conditioning units that aren't working well, 9 times out of 10 it's since of a dirty filter," states Stewart Unsdorfer, owner of Central Heating & Air Conditioning in Cleveland.
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2. Is It Too Sunny Inside?
If your window A/C is in a window that gets direct sunshine in the heat of the day, it'll have to work more difficult to cool your space. If you have a choice, move it to a shadier area. If not, keep your shades and drapes drawn during the day to obstruct the sun and prevent it from warming up your house.
3. Is Warm Air Leaking In? Examine the seals around your window A/C to make sure hot air isn't getting in (or cold air isn't leaking out). Reseal around your unit with weather condition removing if required.
" The majority of new window systems come with insulation panels to position over the plastic adjustable side panels," says Chris Regan, CR's senior a/c tester. "But to take full advantage of efficiency, you'll still need to utilize weather removing around the border of the unit. And constantly use the producer's setup and safety hardware."
4. Is Your Window A/C Vibrating? Air conditioners make lots of sound, including from the whir of the fan and the sound of the compressor biking on and off. These noises are typical. However if you hear a vibrating noise, it might mean Find more info that your unit was installed improperly. Make sure it's sitting safely in the window and examine the installation directions in your owner's handbook to confirm that no steps were missed out on.
Central Air Conditioner Checklist
5. Is the Thermostat on the Right Setting?
With a wise or programmable thermostat, you can more quickly control the temperature in your house so that it's comfortable when you're there and a bit warmer when you're not. If the temperature level seems off, make sure the thermostat isn't exposed to direct sunshine, which might cause it to register the incorrect temperature level.
6. Are the Registers Dirty or Blocked?
If you have a forced-air heating and cooling system, routinely vacuum the signs up to get rid of any dust buildup. Ensure that furnishings and other things aren't blocking the airflow through your registers.
7. Are Plants Crowding the Compressor?
The outside compressor for main air needs sufficient air flow to work correctly, so ensure there's at least 2 to 3 feet of area in between the compressor and any plants or structures. There should also be 5 feet of clearance between the top of the system and any trees above.
8. Did You Keep In Mind the Yearly Checkup? An evaluation by a HEATING AND COOLING (heating, ventilation, and cooling) technician can catch any major issues prior to they get even worse and leave you hot and bothered. The technician will inspect all the moving parts, in addition to the refrigerant, and charge the system if essential.
Required a New AC?
If your room a/c unit is beyond repair work, you can discover one that succeeded in our tests for as little as around $200 for a small unit and upwards of $800 for a large one. Ensure you match the size of the a/c to the space it's meant to cool. Listed below, we list models in each size that performed well in CR's tests. You can find more in our full a/c rankings.