Why Did My AC Stop Working?

San Diego, with its oceanic ambiance and the thrill of the Alpine and Coronado landscapes, serves up picturesque vistas that lure in locals and tourists alike. As summer approaches, sun-soaked afternoons are spent lounging on Coronado Beach or hiking through the Cuyamaca Rancho State Park in Alpine. Returning to a warm, uncomfortable home after a fun-filled day in the sun could quickly dampen your summer spirits.

To enjoy a refreshing homecoming, ensuring that your air conditioner functions optimally is paramount. Bob Jenson Air Conditioning and Heating can assist with AC repair in San Diego, CA and surrounding areas and help you enjoy everything the area has to offer without the added stress.

How Air Conditioners Operate

Understanding the basic operation of your air conditioner can help you identify early signs of trouble and eliminate them before it turns into a bigger and costlier AC repair in Bonita, CA. Essentially, an AC unit uses refrigerant to absorb heat from the indoor air. The warm refrigerant then travels outside to the condenser unit, where it releases the heat. The now-cooled refrigerant returns inside, and the cycle repeats. Key components include:

• Evaporator Coil: This is where the refrigerant absorbs heat from the indoor air. The coil is located inside the air handler, and as warm air passes over it, the refrigerant inside the coil soaks up that heat.
• Compressor: An integral part of your AC system, the compressor pressurizes the refrigerant, preparing it to release the absorbed heat. It’s the driving force that propels the refrigerant through the system.
• Condenser Coil: Located in the outdoor unit of your air conditioning system, the condenser coil expels the heat absorbed by the refrigerant. As the pressurized refrigerant moves through the coil, it cools down and turns back into a low-pressure gas.
• Air Filter: The air filter traps dust, allergens, and dirt that is pulled into the unit from the air. A clean filter ensures the efficiency of your AC system and maintains good air quality in your home.
• Thermostat: This is the control panel for your AC system. It detects the room temperature and regulates your AC’s operation accordingly. Proper calibration of the thermostat is crucial for your AC to function optimally.

Understanding Why Your AC Stopped Working

When your air conditioner fails, it is usually due to one of a handful of common issues. Below we have listed four issues that may require AC repair in Alpine, CA.

• Low Refrigerant
• Clogged Air Filter
• Faulty Thermostat
• Worn-out Compressor

Low Refrigerant

Refrigerant is the lifeline of your AC system and cannot function properly without it. This special chemical compound is what cools the air within the unit, which is then circulated around your home. When refrigerant levels drop, usually due to leaks or undercharging at installation, your AC’s cooling capacity diminishes. Fortunately, Bob Jenson’s certified technicians can diagnose these issues and replenish the refrigerant to the necessary levels, restoring your AC’s cooling power.

Clogged Air Filter

A clogged air filter restricts airflow to your AC system, making it work harder than necessary and potentially causing the unit to freeze, leading to a need for AC repair. Regular filter changes and cleanings can alleviate this issue, saving you money in the long run. Let Bob Jenson’s professionals help with periodic maintenance to prevent such occurrences.

Faulty Thermostat

If your thermostat is not reading temperatures accurately, it might signal your AC to stop too soon or to run for too long without ever reaching the optimal temperature and interfere with your comfort. Professional calibration can rectify this issue, and modern, programmable thermostats may be a worthy upgrade.

Worn-out Compressor

The compressor is the heart of your AC system, circulating refrigerant between the indoor and outdoor units. When it malfunctions, your AC won’t cool effectively. Compressor issues usually demand professional intervention. Bob Jenson’s skilled technicians are adept at diagnosing and providing AC repair in San Diego, CA for your compressor-related problems, helping to get your AC back in shape.

AC Repair Services We Offer

It is easy to figure out the mystery of what is wrong with your AC with the right knowledge. At Bob Jenson Air Conditioning and Heating, we specialize in diagnosing and fixing the intricate problems that can lead to AC failure. Here are some of the AC repair services we provide:

• Refrigerant Recharge: Low refrigerant is often the culprit behind an ineffective air conditioning system. If your system is low on refrigerant, it can’t cool effectively. Our expert technicians can check the levels and recharge the system if necessary.
• Filter Replacement: As we discussed earlier, air filters trap dust and pollutants from the air. When they’re clogged, the system can’t effectively circulate air, leading to overworking of the system. Our service includes checking and replacing your filters to ensure smooth airflow and efficient cooling.
• Thermostat Calibration: Sometimes, the problem isn’t with the AC unit itself, but with the thermostat. If it’s not properly calibrated, the AC won’t get the correct instructions, causing it to cool inadequately or excessively. Our technicians will make sure the thermostat is functioning correctly and properly calibrated.
• Mechanical Repairs: AC units are complex machines. Any mechanical failure like a broken fan, a malfunctioning compressor, or a leaky coil can lead to an underperforming unit. With decades of experience, our technicians can diagnose and repair these issues, ensuring your AC unit operates at peak performance.
• Regular Maintenance: Last but not least, to prevent unexpected and often costly breakdowns, we offer routine AC maintenance in Alpine, CA and surrounding areas. These involve checking the entire system, from electrical connections to moving parts, ensuring everything is working as it should.

Keeping Cool With Confidence

Air conditioner issues can turn a relaxing summer day into an uncomfortable ordeal and ruin your plans. Understanding why your AC might stop working is the first step in rectifying the problem. For comprehensive AC repair in Coronado, CA and surrounding areas, trust Bob Jenson Air Conditioning and Heating. Our team of experienced technicians is dedicated to restoring your comfort in no time. Don’t let AC troubles dampen your summer joy, call our team today!