When your AC unit breaks, every minute feels like an eternity. Most of the time, when HVAC systems break down, it may not be obvious until your home becomes an uncomfortable temperature. Your anxiety will likely improve the moment the AC repair technician rings the doorbell, but how long will it take them to get things up and running again?
Much of that will depend upon the issue that caused it to break in the first place. It could take 30 minutes or less or even hours to get it fixed.
Common Air Conditioning Problems
Why did your air conditioning unit stop working? These common problems may be the culprit.
AC Not Turning On
If your AC isn’t turning on at all, it could be for a variety of reasons. A blown fuse or circuit breaker issue may be to blame though this can often be fixed quickly.
Hot Air Blowing Out
Perhaps your AC is running, but it’s blowing out warm air. Often, this is due to low refrigerant levels or a problem with the compressor in the outdoor unit.
AC Running Constantly
Sometimes, the problem isn’t that your air conditioning has stopped running. It may continue to run constantly. Even on the hottest days in Houston, it should run in cycles and not be running 24/7.
Frozen Evaporator Coil
One of the most integral parts of your air conditioner is the evaporator coil. Air that contains the refrigerant moves over this coil, which is how this appliance cools down your home. Sometimes, this coil may freeze because the air filter is dirty, the drainpipe is clogged, or something else is impeding the airflow.
Repair Times for Air Conditioning Systems
The length of time that it will take to fix your air conditioner will depend on the problem. A simple flipped emergency switch can take very little time to fix. However, if your unit is low on refrigerant, this may take a few hours.
A broken compressor can take even longer for your HVAC technician to repair. Plan on that being most of the day. Regardless of the issue at hand, you’ll never want to ignore problems with your air conditioning unit. If you hear any strange noises or detect unusual odors while it’s running, calling for repairs before it completely breaks down will likely save you from making bigger, more expensive, and more time-consuming repairs.
Utilizing a vacuum gauge can help ensure the system is properly evacuated and free of contaminants during maintenance or repairs. Taking proactive steps and using the right tools can keep your HVAC system running smoothly and efficiently.
If your air conditioner keeps breaking down and it is an older unit approaching its 10-year lifespan, you may want to have it replaced. Air conditioning replacement can take about 8 hours to complete, but it will be worth it to have peace of mind.
For air conditioning systems that aren’t that old, making repairs should resolve any problems. Keeping up with your regular maintenance should help you avoid major issues. However, since air conditioners so seldom break during normal business hours, make sure you call a company that provides 24-hour AC repair in Houston, and you won’t have to wait long!
