While DIY fixes are great for tightening a few bolts or clearing out debris from your A/C unit, not everything is simple. Certain more severe issues may require professional work. Things like broken gas lines, faulty wiring, refrigerant leaks, and others demand immediate attention. But how do you tell between something like a few loose screws and a broken crankshaft? After all, they both make loud, rattling sounds.
In this blog, we provide the tools you need to identify serious issues with your A/C and deal with them safely and effectively. So let’s dive in!
Gas Leaks
How to identify a gas leak:
If your air conditioner starts smelling like sulfur or rotten eggs, there may be something more at work than your dog’s overactive digestive system. This is most likely a clear indication of a ruptured gas line.
Steps to take:
If you think you have a gas leak, shut off the gas supply right away and evacuate the area.
Once you’re at a safe distance, contact your local gas provider and an HVAC technician for help. At Pomona Plumbing, Heating and Air Conditioning, our experts are trained to detect and fix dangerous gas leaks quickly.
Electrical Issues
How to spot electrical problems:
If you smell smoke or burning coming from your A/C, this points to a possible electrical malfunction. This could be due to overheating parts or a problem with the motor. A clicking noise could also signal a faulty thermostat or control panel.
What to do:
Immediately turn off your A/C to prevent more damage.
Inspect the area for debris, replace the thermostat batteries, and reset the system. If these measures don’t correct the problem, call in a professional. Electrical repairs are risky and should be handled by someone with the proper knowledge and experience.
Strange, Loud Noises
Unusual noises, like banging or clanking, coming from your air conditioner usually mean something is loose or broken, like a connecting rod, piston pin, or crankshaft.
What to do:
Turn off your air conditioner and call a professional right away. While you might try tightening some screws or clearing visible debris, continuous loud noises usually point to a deeper mechanical problem. An HVAC technician can diagnose and repair the issue before further damage occurs.
Refrigerant Leaks
Signs of a refrigerant leak:
To detect a refrigerant leak, listen for hissing or bubbling sounds, watch for ice buildup on the evaporator coils, and continuously monitor your energy bill for unexplained spikes. A sharp rise in your electric bill without an increase in usage is often linked to a refrigerant leak.
What you should do:
Refrigerants are harmful and require special handling. Avoid attempting any repairs yourself.
Instead, contact Pomona Plumbing, Heating, and Air Conditioning. Our team has the tools and experience to locate and repair refrigerant leaks safely and efficiently.
Conclusion
An online DIY guide does not solve every air conditioner issue. While you might be capable of handling minor fixes, more complex A/C problems demand professional attention. The skilled technicians at Pomona Heating, Plumbing, and Air are skilled in addressing electrical faults, refrigerant leaks, gas issues, and more.
If your air conditioner is showing signs of trouble, don’t wait. Contact us at (909) 764-3214 for immediate assistance.