Can You Repair Your Own Air Conditioner?
Consider this scenario: It’s July, your air conditioner just died, and you’re hesitant to pay several hundred dollars to have a repairman come fix it. Before dropping all that cash on a repairman or similar service, take the time to learn that you can do a few things to self repair your air conditioner.
First off you need to find the owners manual for the air conditioner. Whenever you get an item like an air conditioner installed, be sure to keep the manual and any other documents related to the unit to use as a reference, in case there are problems. If you can’t find the manual or didn’t keep it, look online for the information from the manufacturer’s website. Many companies, such as Kenmore or Lennox, will have what you need on the web. It’s also okay to call the manufacturer and request a new manual before you get involved in your own air conditional repairs.
Always make sure your system is completely off before you begin to check it. You can shut off the unit on the electrical panel, or go to the outdoor compressor of your home and find the disconnect or “off” button located there. Also take the time to clean any debris around the system so while you are cleaning no parts get dirty or damaged as you inspect it. After removing the grill that protects the fins, using a soft brush remove all dirt and grime that is on the fins. You may also want to vacuum the fins with the brush attachment of your vacuum cleaner.
After you unscrew and lift the grill, make sure that you’re not damaging any wires, and from inside the unit, you’ll need to hose out the fins. It may be necessary to lube up the motor in your air conditioner, but never put on too much.
At this point you should put the unit back together. Always put the parts back on in the order you removed them. You can then turn the unit back on to test it, and set the thermostat to the desired temperature. Allow the unit to run for a bit longer while you check the pipes and make sure they are connected properly to the condenser unit. One of the pipes should feel cool, and the other should feel warm. If each is at the correct temperature, the air will be evenly cooled in your home or office. If both pipes are the same temperature, it may be necessary to seek professional help if they don’t correct within a few minutes of time.
In many parts of the world, the weather changes so drastically from winter to summer that both heating and air conditioning equipment are essential for any residence. Before you shop, though, find the information you need at the Residential Air Conditioning site.
