Why Won't My Air Conditioner Cool After Cleaning and Repairs: Troubleshooting Steps

Have you ever found yourself in a situation where your air conditioner (AC) stopped working perfectly after you cleaned it?

If your AC was functioning well before the cleaning and now it doesn't, you may have inadvertently made a mistake during the repair process. This could have occurred when putting the AC back together or by hosing it down. However, if the AC was working excellently before, why did you need to clean it in the first place?

Basic Troubleshooting

Before diving into more complex issues, it's essential to understand the basics. Is the AC working at all? Does the fan and condenser run when the thermostat actuates them? Or does nothing happen?

1. Check if the fan and condenser run.

For the fan, observe if it operates when the AC is turned on. For the condenser, listen for a loud humming noise coming from the cylindrical unit underneath the fan.

If nothing is working, it's possible that water got into the electronics compartment, either damaging the capacitor, the contactor, or both. This could also be due to a blown fuse in the breaker box.

2. Assess individual components.

If the fan runs but the condenser does not, or vice versa, the fuse is likely okay, but the capacitor or the relevant side of a dual run capacitor could be faulty. Check for any disturbed connections or rusty crimp terminals, which could be the cause. It's also possible that the fan motor or condenser has failed, although this is less likely.

3. Consider low freon levels.

If both the fan and condenser are running but the unit is still producing warm air, there may be a low freon pressure due to a leak somewhere in the system. A skilled HVAC technician can repair the leak and recharge the system.

Understanding the Impact of Cleaning

It's important to understand why cleaning might have caused the AC to stop working. Before cleaning, the AC may have struggled to get enough air due to dirt, causing the pressure to rise in the unit. After cleaning, the AC might have had better airflow, but it may have also lead to a drop in pressure due to more efficient cooling.

This pressure drop could indicate a Freon leak. A skilled technician can weld the leak and recharge the system, but they may also try to sell you a new AC system, so ensure you get a fair quote.

Conclusion

While it’s common to clean air conditioners, especially during warmer months, it’s crucial to ensure that you don't accidentally damage the system. Always consult with a professional HVAC service when in doubt or if you're not confident in your ability to repair the AC yourself.

For those looking to avoid such issues, regular maintenance and professional cleaning are recommended. By doing so, you can ensure that your air conditioner works efficiently and lasts longer.

Remember, when dealing with HVAC systems, safety and professional expertise are paramount.