Is It Time To Recharge Your Central Air Conditioner?

Springtime is finally here and everyone is enjoying the more friendly temperatures after a harsh winter. Daily tasks are a lot easier thanks to the improved weather. However, like all seasons, spring must give way to summer and so preparations must be made to cope with the scorching heat in the coming months. It is the perfect time to check on the air conditioner and make repairs if necessary. This will ensure a cool and comfortable summer for the whole family. Sometimes the central air conditioner needs charged refrigerants so homeowners must look into this to cover all the bases.

Checking Thermostat

The first step in diagnosing the problem is to set the thermostat to a fairly cool temperature like the mid-60s. Give the system time to work towards this setting. About a quarter of an hour will usually suffice if everything is in perfect order. Use a room thermometer for an accurate reading. Failure to reach the desired temperature means that a part is probably malfunctioning. It is too early to tell if the refrigerant is the one causing this but keep it in mind and continue to troubleshoot until other possibilities have been eliminated.

Checking the Fan

The next item that requires close scrutiny is the fan. It may be that all other components are working well but the fan is busted and cannot circulate the cold air around the rooms. Turn the AC on and then observe carefully if the fan is turning behind the grills. It is important to simply look at it and not try to extend a hand to touch it. The latter may be more conclusive but it is extremely dangerous. Close observation is generally enough to see whether there is movement or not. The lack of movement could indicate either a broken motor or clogged dirt. If it is still moving, then further investigation is necessary.

Checking the Air Vents

The last thing that needs to be checked is the air vents. Turn on the unit and try to feel if there is cold air coming from them. Place a hand where they would blow and sense the temperature there. It should get progressively colder as the system works its way towards the thermostat setting. Assuming that the thermostat is working fine yet the vents continue to blow warm air, there is a high probability that the AC needs its Freon charged. Perhaps there is a leak that caused the amount to drop below the critical level.

Getting Professional Help

Charging the refrigerant is a complicated matter. A number of homeowners try to do it on their own but this is not advisable since the substance may be hazardous. The tanks are also difficult to purchase unless one has a license to so AC repairs and charges. Measuring the exact amount needed to be added is also a tricky process that calls for sophisticated equipment that only professionals can provide.

Allen Kemnitz