Nothing beats the feeling of a strong stream of cool air coming from your vents on a hot day in the South! However, when your air conditioner’s airflow is weak, it becomes difficult to maintain comfort inside your home. Weak airflow is a sign of system issues, and discomfort isn’t the only problem it causes – your cooling system may sustain damage.
In our most recent blog, the technicians at Energy Savers explain the reasons that are often to blame when air conditioner airflow is weak and what to do to correct such issues. For air conditioner repair, contact Energy Savers today!
1. Dirty Air Filter
Your HVAC system’s air filter is tasked with trapping airborne particles circulating through the system and keeping them away from the delicate components inside the equipment. Over time, filters become clogged with trapped contaminants and are no longer able to remove any more particles from circulation. At this point, you’re due for a filter replacement.
When the filter is completely clogged, the trapped contaminants make it difficult for the AC system to properly circulate air through the home. A dirty filter is a common cause for weak airflow inside the home. Because the filter acts as a barrier to proper airflow, HVAC equipment works harder and uses more energy in effort to achieve correct air movement.
In addition to weak airflow, a dirty air filter causes energy waste and more wear and tear on system components. If the AC system is continuously run with a dirty filter, it may experience frequent repairs as well as early replacement. Don’t risk expensive damage to your cooling system – replace your filter as recommended. Replacement intervals can be anywhere from once a month to once per year, depending on the type of filter used and the air quality conditions in your home.
2. Leaky Ducts or Duct Blockage
A sealed air duct system is designed to carry cooled air from the air conditioner into the home’s living areas. When a duct system forms leaks, air escapes prior to reaching the living areas, producing weaker airflow. Blockages in the ducts also restrict air movement and lead to weak airflow.
Air duct leaks in sheet metal ducts typically occur over time and don’t produce a sudden difference in airflow. However, if sections of ductwork collapse or become disconnected, a noticeable difference in airflow is likely. Flexible ductwork is prone to damage and kinks. If your ducts are accessible, take a look to see if you are able to pinpoint any issues. An HVAC technician is also able to inspect ducts for issues causing restricted airflow.
3. Blower Malfunctions
Your air conditioning system uses a blower fan housed within the indoor air handler to distribute air through the home’s air ducts and vents. If this fan isn’t working correctly, you’ll likely notice weaker airflow.
Issues with the blower can lead to:
- Significant buildup of dust, dirt, and grime on fan blades
- Loose or broken blower motor belt
- Short circuit or burnt out motor
Contact your HVAC technician for air conditioner repairs to address blower motor issues. Your technician can clean components, replace belts, or even replace the blower motor if necessary.
4. Frozen Evaporator Coil
Another cause of airflow issues is a frozen evaporator coil. When your AC is properly functioning, air passes over the cold evaporator coils. But if the evaporator coils are frozen, air is blocked from passing over the coils and into your air ducts, resulting in weakened or no airflow. The likely causes of a frozen evaporator coil are a refrigerant leak, dirty air filter or dirt on the evaporator coils themselves.
Call Energy Savers for Air Conditioning Repair Service!
When your air conditioner’s airflow is weak, don’t ignore the problem! Protect your cooling equipment, and preserve comfort in your home when you call Energy Savers for prompt air conditioner repair service. Our technicians will find the root of the problem and perform expert fixes to restore proper airflow from your cooling system.
