Looking for Englewood, Colorado, air conditioning repair? At Horizon Services, this is a job we’re more than familiar with. We offer services to air conditioners of all kinds and, more importantly, have the skills and know-how to prevent your AC from breaking down in the first place. Learn about the common AC issues we repair, signs it’s time to call an HVAC repair pro, and info on the importance of maintenance for avoiding home cooling conundrums.
Why Air Conditioners Break Down
Why do air conditioners break down? There are a few common reasons:
Maintenance Issues
The number one reason for AC breakdowns is skipping regular maintenance. Air conditioners are complex machines and require periodic service and care to operate at their best. Our team provides air conditioner maintenance in Englewood to reduce the risk of issues and improve energy efficiency and cooling performance.
Air Filter Neglect
Your AC’s air filter helps keep dust and debris out of the system. These filters need to be replaced every 1 to 3 months. If you neglect to change out your filter, it’s just a matter of time before you’re dealing with issues like freezing coils, weak airflow, or warm air coming from your HVAC vents.
Refrigerant Leaks
AC refrigerant leaks can quickly shut down your unit. These occur due to improper installation, system damage, or normal wear and tear. In addition to reducing cooling efficiency and performance, exposure to refrigerant is hazardous to your health. Contact a pro to fix these leaks right away.
Power Problems
Another possible cause of AC breakdowns is electrical issues. Faulty wiring, failing connections, blown capacitors, or tripped circuit breakers can all stop an air conditioner. You’ll need an HVAC and/or electrical pro to inspect the system and get it running safely again.
Thermostat Malfunction
An otherwise functional AC could shut down if there’s a problem with the thermostat. If your thermostat isn’t working correctly, it could cause the AC to cycle on and off repeatedly, run continuously, or stop working altogether. Fortunately, thermostat issues are usually relatively quick and inexpensive to repair.
Most Common Air Conditioning Repair Needs
When we get called out to perform air conditioner repair in Englewood, we’re ready for anything. In most cases, our clients have one of a few common repair needs. These common AC problems include:
- Repairing refrigerant leaks and recharging refrigerant.
- Changing air filters.
- Replacing faulty capacitors.
- Replacing thermostats.
- Thawing and fixing frozen evaporator coils.
- Repairing broken motors or fans.
- Cleaning clogged condensate drains.
Signs Your AC Needs Immediate Repair
How do you know when it’s time for AC repair in Englewood, CO? Signs you need AC repair include:
Airflow Issues
If your AC is putting out a weak stream of air, or if the air is warm, it’s a sign of a problem. If your AC isn’t blowing cold air, it could be due to issues with the air filter, ductwork, refrigerant, or coils. It may also be a symptom of AC compressor issues. Have a qualified technician inspect and repair the system immediately if you’re experiencing airflow issues.
Strange Noises
Another sign that you need air conditioning service in Englewood is hearing loud, unusual noises from the unit. Grinding, screeching, or squealing noises usually indicate that a component has become loose or damaged. Continuing to run the system in this state will only cause further issues, so have an HVAC technician inspect and repair it immediately.
Unpleasant Odors
Musty or burning odors are a serious sign of a problem in your AC. These can be caused by mold growth, mildew, or excessive dust buildup in the system. Have your AC serviced right away to eliminate these odors.
Leaks
Water and refrigerant leaks are major issues for air conditioners. Refrigerant leaks require emergency AC repair in Englewood, while water leaks can be equally serious due to the potential damage they can cause.
Short-Cycling
If your unit is constantly shutting on and off, it’s a clear sign of a problem. This can occur due to restricted airflow, thermostat issues, low refrigerant levels, or an oversized unit. Have a pro inspect the unit and get it running normally again.
Energy Bill Increases
A subtle but important sign of an AC issue is noticing increases in your energy bills with no change in usage. This means the system is working harder, which may indicate a need to repair it.
Why Your AC Isn’t Cooling Properly
A summer hike through Castlewood Canyon is only fun when you know your home will be the right temperature when you get back. If your system isn’t cooling your home properly, it can cause real issues for your comfort and safety at home. There are a few common causes for an AC that isn’t cooling properly:
- The air filter is clogged and dirty
- Dust is blocking your HVAC ducts
- Your thermostat is set incorrectly or is malfunctioning
- Your evaporator coils are frozen
- You have a refrigerant leak
How Regular Maintenance Reduces Repair Needs
The best way to avoid HVAC repair in Englewood, CO, is to keep up with your system’s regular maintenance. By having a professional routinely inspect, clean, and lubricate the system, you reduce the risk of a breakdown later. Plus, this seasonal maintenance boosts cooling performance and keeps energy bills to a minimum.
Repair vs. Replacement: When Is It Time to Upgrade?
While we believe in repairing systems whenever possible, there comes a point when replacing an old AC is unavoidable. Generally, you can expect an AC to last 10 to 15 years. After this point, rising inefficiency and declining cooling performance mean it’s more cost-effective to invest in a new, efficient system.
How Colorado’s Climate Affects AC Performance
Colorado’s high altitude, low humidity, and rapid temperature changes can place undue strain on AC systems. Operating an AC in this climate causes greater wear and tear on internal components. This causes moving parts to fail sooner if homeowners don’t maintain their HVAC systems regularly.
Schedule Air Conditioning Repair in Englewood Today
At Horizon Services, we’re proud to offer comprehensive AC repair services in the Englewood area. Whether it’s a minor issue or a complete system shutdown, trust our team to accurately diagnose the problem, quickly resolve it, and leave only when the job is completed to our high standards. For more info on AC repairs or to schedule a service appointment today, don’t hesitate to contact us.
