When To Recharge Your Air Conditioning System

As an owner of a cooling system, one of the most important things you should know is when the central air conditioner needs charged. Typically, systems that require recharging blow in air that is warm or the same as room temperature. If this problem sounds familiar, a simple recharge and check can fix the problem. However, seeing that recharging can be potentially dangerous, it is recommended that you reach out to a specialist for help.

Signs Your Air Conditioner Needs Charging

The temperature of air is by far the biggest sign that you need the refrigerant charged.  Refrigerant is responsible for producing cold, dry air. Without it, your cooler might still function but lack the ability to blow air at the temperature you want. Charging refrigerant is a task reserved for professionals because failing to do it properly can do more harm than good.

To determine whether or not your conditioner needs a charge, feel the temperature of the air blowing into your home or property. Set your thermostat to the temp you want and allow your cooler to run for a while. Place your hands carefully in front of the vent. If the temperature does not change for more than 15 minutes, you might have a problem.

How to Rule Out Other Air Conditioning Problems

It is easy to confuse other conditioner problems with your refrigerant needing a charge. Before calling a professional, make sure that your system is not suffering from common problems that you might be able to fix at home. The best way to do this is to conduct a basic inspection.

Checking Thermostat

A broken thermostat can prevent your cooling system from letting out cold air. To eliminate the thermostat as the culprit behind a malfunctioning cooler, reset it. In some cases, the system regains normal function after resetting. If it does not, resume your inspection.

Watch the Fan

With any normal, functional conditioner, the fan should move as soon as you turn it on. If the fan is not moving, it might be a sign that the motor is burned out. Limit your check to a visual inspection. It is not a good idea to try and open the system or place your hands inside.

Monitor Frost Buildup

Coolant leaks are much more common than people think. When coolant leaks, it causes frost to build up around the conditioner’s parts. When it runs out, air stops being cool and might cause the same symptoms as recharging problems do.

Ask For Help

Central air conditioners can be tricky and even dangerous. While conducting a visual inspection and checking thermostat poses no real threat, trying to fix the problem yourself can be. If you clean your system of debris and reset the thermostat without your conditioner going back to normal, contact a specialist as soon as possible.

A specialist can conduct a thorough check, fix the problem, have your refrigerant charged safely and even identify other problems with your cooling system you were not aware of. Diagnosing problems early can prevent damage in future and save you from having to replace it.