Knowing when to recharge your central air conditioning system will make all of the difference in the quality of life in your home. The time to ensure that your Freon levels are balanced is before you start to feel the discomfort that comes when your system stops working. Understanding how to check your Freon levels is the first step in enjoying a comfortable home climate.
The first time most people realize that there is a problem with the air conditioning is when they turn it on and it doesn’t work as normal. In most cases, the central air conditioner needs charged, a simple problem that a certified technician can fix. Checking thermostat readings will give you an indication of whether the problem is a simple charge or something more serious. If you set your thermostat to 65 degrees and your home does not cool, you may need to investigate further to find out the source of the problem.
Start at the Source
If your temperature does not adjust to the cool setting, check to make sure the fan is working. Go outside and check the fan, watching to see if it is operating properly. If it is not, chances are your motor has burned out and may need replacing.
If the fan is indeed running, return to the inside of your home to go to the next diagnostic step. After you return to the house, make note of the temperature. If the inside of your home is cooler than the temperature outside, the problem may lie in the thermostat. Often the thermostat will give faulty readings even though the system is working properly.
Check Your Ventilation System
One of the most reliable ways to check if you need Freon charged is to place your hand in front of the vent. Find the vents where you normally feel the cool air and test the temperature. If you feel warm air coming from the vents, this is an indication that you need your Freon charged.
If after checking thermostat and vents you discover that your central air conditioner needs charged, call a certified HVAC
(heating ventilation air conditioning) specialist who can charge your unit.
The key to keeping your central air conditioning unit functioning properly is to maintain it regularly and have it checked periodically. Often dirt and dust can build up on your unit’s fan, causing blockages that interfere with your air conditioner’s performance. Many people have their systems checked in late-spring, after winter weather has passed but before the intense summer heat rolls in.
Keeping your air conditioning system maintained is crucial for maximum home comfort. Have yours inspected today.
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