AIR CONDITIONING CATEGORY The following entries all contain information relating to air conditioning. Click "Read More" to view the entire entry including the response from our experts and other visitors' comments. Feel free to add comments of your own. To quickly locate specific information, type the word or phrase you are looking for into the Search box to the lower right.

  • Thermostat goes into recovery mode

    Aug.29.2010

    Your company replaced our air conditioning last year and put in an ARS thermostat. In the evenings around 7:00 p.m. it goes into Recovery mode and sets the temperature at the 10:00 p.m. temperature. I've gone through setting several times and cannot figure out what it is. Can you tell me?

    Sherry, Thornton, CO

    Expert Answer

    Setback thermostats have an Intelligent Recovery that will look ahead and start bringing the temperature down ahead of time so that it is at the…

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  • AC makes buzzing sound

    Aug.23.2010

    My air conditioning unit started making this buzzing noise around the contactor and the capacitor. The motor turns, but after about 30 minutes it stops and the buzzing starts. Should I replace the capacitor? It's 100 degrees down here and it seems like the unit is overheating.

    John, Stafford, TX

    Expert Answer

     Often a buzzing sound indicates a problem in the contactor. The issue may be with the contactor itself, or it could be the result of a low voltage problem elsewhere. A service technician would need to…

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  • Can't get temperature back down

    Aug.23.2010

    My central air conditioning gets the house temperature down to the temperature at which I have it set only in the middle of the night and early morning. As the day progresses, it slowly climbs above what I have it set at, and it goes up to between 78 and 83 degrees and then I cannot get it back down...even late at night. In the middle of the night it goes down to the proper temperature only to gradually climb again during the day. I recently had it serviced and they said everything looked okay, but my coolant was down 1 ½.

    Pat, Lakeland, FL

    Expert Answer

    The temperatures this summer have been above normal for a long period of time and well above the temperature conditions for which air conditioning systems are designed. These conditions will cause temperatures…

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  • Temperature spikes up over & over

    Aug.23.2010

    We have been in our home for 8 years, purchased it new, and never had a problem until now. We keep the air conditioning set to 77 at all times. Recently, it began spiking up to 80/81. If we turn the thermostat setting up to 79/80 it will cool down to 79/80 but, if it is turned down to 77/78, it spikes back up again. It doesn't cool off until around 9 p.m., and it runs continuously. I have a home warranty and a technician came out last week. He added 1pound of Freon and he said that the duct work in attic is fine. The only other thing he found was the return vent is too small. According to him it should be 20 x 24. (Our home is 1800 sq. ft.) This makes no sense because it has been fine all these years with this return vent. The temperature at the supply is 40 degrees and return temp is 58 degrees. I am told that the 18 degree split is ideal. Maybe the thermostat is faulty? What else could be causing this? Is it just normal due to the extreme heat? Am I wasting my money to pay another service fee for someone else to come and check it out? I already paid $60 to the home warranty tech, and they said the return vent is not covered. I am still having the problem even after he added the Freon. Help!

    laura, apopka, FL

    Expert Answer

    The extreme temperature conditions are probably causing this to happen. This well may be the hottest summer we have had in the last 8 years. Also, these very hot conditions require a system to be at its maximum…

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  • Replacing radiators; should I recycle?

    Aug.17.2010

    I'm about to take a number of home radiators out of my house because we installed a central air conditioning and heating system and I'm trying to find out if they are worth more to sell or recycle and if you know of anyone or any businesses who would be interested in them.

    Nelson, Frederick, MD

    Expert Answer

    You could call local HVAC companies and inquire if they buy old radiators. Often the only purchaser will be one of those local scrap metal salvage companies, and they usually buy according to the weight of the…

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  • Compressor is running; condenser fan is not

    Aug.16.2010

    My condenser fan outside is NOT running but the compressor is running. I turned off everything for about 1 hour because I figured the motor was running hot. When I turned everything back on, the condenser fan started to run for a couple of minutes with the compressor running also but then the condenser fan stopped while the compressor was still humming. I then proceeded to turn everything off again just so that I do not make it where the compressor will be running hot. Was that the right thing to do? What do you think might have caused the condenser fan to stop spinning?

    Long, Houston, TX

    Expert Answer

    The condenser fan motor is failing in some way. It could be that the fan motor bearings have gone bad, or the capacitor for the motor could be bad. You shouldn’t risk running the unit without the fan…

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  • Overflowing pan under AC unit

    Aug.11.2010

    The pan under my air conditioning unit is filling with water and flooding. We cleaned out the drainpipe and tons of water came out and we thought we had fixed the problem. Within 30 minutes it was overflowing again. Any ideas?

    Drucilla, Hernando, MS

    Expert Answer

    A service technician would need to determine what the problem is. There are many causes of water from an AC unit not draining properly. It could be that a drain line is not sloped properly or perhaps the drain…

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  • Is this accurate?

    Aug.3.2010

    Here is a quote from your website. It seems inaccurate to me. What do you so called experts think? "A dual-source heat pump combines a standard air-source heat pump with a geothermal heat pump. These appliances combine the best of both systems. Dual-source heat pumps have higher efficiency ratings than air-source units, but are not as efficient as geothermal units. The main advantage of dual-source systems is that they cost much less to install than a single geothermal unit, and work almost as well."

    joe, manassas, VA

    Expert Answer

    This statement is accurate regarding the Dual-Source Heat Pump. This system is differentiated from the standard…

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  • Replace thermostat?

    Aug.3.2010

    The existing thermostat we have was installed by the builder 3 years ago and is very low quality. We have a dual zone system and the primary system heat runs off bottled propane which is not cost effective. We need a programmable thermostat as a replacement. Our service plan inspector suggested a brand but there are three different model types. How can we tell which is the best for our specific needs?

    DAwn, Purcellville, VA

    Expert Answer

    Some thermostat models are fine when hooked to a zoning system like the one you indicate. They give you single stage heating and cooling capability.…

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  • Replace the breaker

    Jul.24.2010

    Two days ago my air conditioner quit blowing out cool air and the fan did not spin. If I go back and flip the circuit breaker it will come back on, but only for about 30 minutes, then you hear it pop. (The breaker never actually flips over.) I turn off the breaker and then I wait 2 to 3 minutes, flip it and it comes back on. Then I start all over again. Will replacing the breaker fix it? (I put in new fuses.)

    treva, wichita, KS

    Expert Answer

    The breaker may be the problem or there could be an underlying issue that is causing the breaker to trip. A technician would need to check the amp draw of the unit to determine if it is drawing too much power and…

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  • Why does fan spin so slowly?

    Jul.19.2010

    My outside fan was not working on my air conditioner. I had a HVAC technician come out and he said the condenser fan motor was bad. The motor was a GE 5kcp39gf 1/4 hp 825 rpm 208-230v. I called and ordered a replacement. The new motor is an AO Smith 4MB33 1/4 hp 2 speed 1075 rpm 208-230v. We installed the new motor (which had 5 wires) to the unit using only three wires per the old set up. The AC works but the fan blades are spinning slowly on the outside unit and the motor seems to be running hot. We were unable to install the new capacitor that came with the new motor because we can't figure out how to switch the wires from the three-prong capacitor to the new two-prong capacitor (which has no markings on it). What I would like to know is what is causing the fan to spin so slowly. Is it the difference in the rpm's of the two motors and, if so, should I return the motor to the company and tell them they gave me the wrong replacement part? Or is the problem our inability to hook up the new capacitor? If the problem is the capacitor, can someone please explain how to hook up the three wires from the old capacitor to the new two-prong capacitor?

    lisa, mountain city, TN

    Expert Answer

    The motor must have the capacitor hooked to it so that the motor will work properly. If the capacitor is not connected, the fan will spin slowly and/or overheat. The…

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  • Fix heat pump or buy window units?

    Jul.19.2010

    Last night it started getting warm in my house, I checked the vents and room temperature air was coming out, I checked the unit outside and I could hear it humming but the fan blades were not turning. I have a 2.5 ton 13 SEER Amana Heat Pump RHE 30c2A which is still under warranty for parts. Would the labor be too much to fix this thing or should I just get a couple of window units (single mother of two on public assistance)?

    Wendy, Dallas, TX

    Expert Answer

    From my experience, I would think that buying two new window units would cost about the same or maybe even more than simply having this warranty repair completed. Also, as time goes on, you would find that window…

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  • Air conditioning running constantly

    Jul.19.2010

    I’m having a problem with my air conditioning running constantly. What could it be? Is there anything I can do to troubleshoot this issue?

    Kerry, Houston, TX

    Expert Answer

    Run time does increase as outside temperatures go higher, and it is normal for your air conditioner to run a lot when it’s constantly hot outdoors. However, if it runs continuously even in milder weather,…

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  • Fan not turning outside

    Jul.13.2010

    My air conditioning is not cooling very well in the house. There is air blowing out of inside vents but the air conditioning unit is not working (the fan is not turning) on the outside unit. Is this a serious and costly problem?

    Sikethia, Durham, NC

    Expert Answer

    The outdoor unit is not functioning properly if at all. If it is cooling somewhat, then the fan motor outside is failing to come on. When this happens, the compressor…

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  • Flashing red lights on defrost board

    Jul.13.2010

    The outdoor air conditioning unit will not run though the indoor unit runs. The outdoor unit will only run if you manually push in the contactor. There are two flashing red lights on the defrost board on the outdoor unit. What is the problem and what can I do?

    Ernest, Hyattsville, MD

    Expert Answer

    Circuit boards have codes that indicate problems. Often the table to read the code is found in the wiring diagram on the door of the unit. If you cannot find or decipher the code, you should contact a quality air…

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  • Outside unit makes clicking sound

    Jul.13.2010

    My inside air conditioner unit comes on, but the thermostat is saying 82 degrees even though I turn it down low. The outside unit is not coming on at all. When I turn on the inside unit the outside makes a clicking sound. Thank you for helping me with this issue.

    Rufus, Texas City, TX

    Expert Answer

    This noise may indicate that your 230 volt circuit feeding the outdoor air conditioner is not energized and the unit is trying to turn on when it clicks but has no line voltage present. Two places you can check…

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  • House hot all day

    Jul.13.2010

    The house is extremely hot during the day and it does not actually cool off until the sun goes down. It feels as if the air conditioning is not even on, even though you can hear it running. As soon as the sun goes down and especially at night the temperature in the house is where it should be in the middle of the day. The thermostat is set at 69/70 degrees. There is one room in the house that is the hottest of all the rooms and it is the smallest room in the house. My house is one level. Any suggestions what could possibly cause this?

    Trenace, Durham, NC

    Expert Answer

    A system diagnosis by a qualified technician would be required to see why the shortfall in cooling. It could be as simple as a tune-up and cleaning or maybe your system is low on refrigerant. Or it could be some…

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  • AC makes loud noise at first

    Jul.12.2010

    Whenever my air conditioning unit starts up it makes a loud drowning sound as if metal were humming but very loudly. After it is running for a while the noise either dies down or goes away. But it always returns whenever it kicks on again. It basically sounds like the unit is working harder than it should.

    Carlos, Pflugerville, TX

    Expert Answer

    A technician should check the system’s operation. Sometimes the noise is simply caused by aging equipment and a compressor making excessive…

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  • Uneven cooling

    Jul.12.2010

    My house is four years old and I have two levels with two HVAC units. The air is running good on both levels. The only problem is master bedroom (downstairs) and one room upstairs are always at least two degrees hotter than outside or any other room (no one lives in other rooms). It gets hotter if we turn on the big screen TV in our rooms, and it could be as much as six degrees hotter with the TV on. Can I just move the thermostat inside the room so it can blow out cold air while the TV is on to keep the room colder? Or is there anything else we could do at this point? Like install one more control in the room?

    ken, spring, TX

    Expert Answer

     Uneven heat loads such as a large TV or computer can cause problems like this. A new digital thermostat…

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  • House not cool enough

    Jul.12.2010

    We had an Energywise device installed by Progress-Energy last October. We've lived here since July of 2006 and had a Preventive Maintenance Inspection from you on 2/23/09. The heating and cooling units were inspected on 3/16/09 and 9/4/09 respectively. We have the thermostat set for cooling at 68 degrees. The unit runs, but the temperature in the house gets to 78 during the day. It never gets down to 68 degrees until the evening. What can be the problem?

    Lenore, Raleigh, NC

    Expert Answer

    A technician should evaluate the system to determine why there is such a shortfall in reaching the desired temperature. Cooling to 68 degrees is…

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  • Condensate tray overflowing

    Jul.9.2010

    I’m not sure if this is an air conditioning or plumbing question as it deals with the condensate line on our AC unit. We have a unit in the attic and the condensate tray is overflowing and leaking inside the house. We have manually vacuumed the drain pipe outside to remove the water but it just fills back up and starts leaking again within a few hours. We have been manually vacuuming the hose for days and still it leaks.

    Janny, HOUSTON, TX

    Expert Answer

    You need to have a safety switch installed to prevent the pan from filling up. Your air conditioning system’s condensate drain may be clogged. If the primary…

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  • Ice accumulation

    Jul.9.2010

    I have two HVAC (heat pumps) in my home and one of them has stopped working today. The copper pipe inside has ice accumulation and there is of course cold coming out of the unit while the working one has neither ice nor cold air. What's my course of action to get the nonworking unit up and running?

    David, Omaha, NE

    Expert Answer

    We often find that ice is a sign of a low refrigerant charge. Contact a professional HVAC contractor, such as Aksarben®/ARS Omaha at…

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  • Blower fan won't shut off

    Jul.8.2010

    Our blower fan won't shut off. I installed a Goodman system in my home last summer and it worked great. When I operated the system for the first time this summer, the Goodman AEPF303616AA Air Handler would just not shut off. Turning off the cooling at the thermostat will not shut the fan off (and the stat shows the fan in "AUTO" mode, not "Fan On.") I now have to shut off the air handler at the circuit breaker. Funny thing is, the air handler and thermostat were supplied with power all winter: that is, the circuit breaker was on, (not off) and the thermostat was set to "OFF" (no cooling or heating). Today, the compressor cycles on and off normally. It's just that when the desired indoor air temp is reached, the fan continues to blow and blow. Even disconnecting the green fan relay wire between the handler and stat will not shut off the fan. Inside the handler, it appears that the power is supplied directly to the blower motor. There is not a fan relay that I can see, only a lot of black wires running from a circuit (control) board to the blower motor. I'm thinking that I should just try a new control board (Goodman calls that the VSTB). I'm wondering how that board could've gone bad over the winter since the unit is in a climate controlled basement and not subjected to temperature extremes like in an attic or crawl space. Possibly this could be caused by a power surge or maybe the board is just faulty. Can you offer some expertise on this?

    Ralph, Southampton, PA

    Expert Answer

    I’m thinking that this could be a wiring issue. The common wire might be touching the fan control wire. This is not a problem that homeowners should check themselves. I suggest you contact a professional…

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  • Replace evaporator coil only?

    Jun.17.2010

    The evaporator coil (A-frame shaped coil assembly at the bottom of my furnace) rusted out a couple of years ago. I've been using window air conditioning units since then. Can I get that portion of my central AC system replaced without having to replace everything? I'm trying to save a few bucks and doubt I can afford a whole new AC system.

    cary, bellevue, NE

    Expert Answer

    A frame evaporator coils are getting very difficult to find. Whether replacement is a viable option would depend on the age and availability of…

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  • AC vent lines dripping

    Jun.17.2010

    I have a steady drip that’s like water/condensate dripping from my vent lines in my attic eaves. I've checked the pan under the units in the attic and there is no water in the pans. The PVC pipe coming out of the units is wrapped until it drops downward through the eaves. It is hot and humid and I hope this is just the units making condensate. If not, HELP!

    bernard, league City, TX

    Expert Answer

    Since the condensate lines are wrapped in the attic and the attic has a higher heat load, it is not uncommon for condensate to build between the condensate line and the interior of the insulation. This condensate…

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  • System runs after reaching set temp

    Jun.17.2010

    My three ton upstairs system seems to run (cool on) a long time after reaching the set temp on the thermostat. The blower runs a min before shutting off and it seems to take a long time(cool on) to get to the programmed temp. Is there a possible problem with the thermostat or some other mechanical problem that needs to be addressed or normal operation. I have a Trane XR14 3 ton upstairs and it seems as though the system runs(cool on) a long time after reaching the set temp on the thermostat. The blower runs a minute before shutting off and it seems to take a long time(cool on) to get to the programmed temp. Is there a possible problem with the thermostat or some other mechanical problem that needs to be addressed or normal operation.

    Expert Answer

    This situation could be due to several different factors. Variables include location, outside temperature, and load conditions. Also, I’m thinking what you have may be a furnace system as well. The XR14 is…

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  • Stop replace filter message

    Jun.1.2010

    I have a Carrier Infinity air conditioning system and it was recently checked out and everything was fine but I keep getting the message to check or replace my filter. I have changed it two times in the past three weeks and a got the message again just now and replaced it, again pushed the dismiss notice and it keeps coming back. Nothing has changed inside the house, nothing to make it more dusty.

    Susan, Sterling, VA

    Expert Answer

    Most programmable thermostats use batteries, and It’s possible that the batteries in your thermostat need to be replaced. It is very likely…

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  • Coils not cold

    May.27.2010

    My air conditioning unit was freezing up last weekend so I called in professional and he charged my Freon. Everything has been fine until today. The air conditioning unit and outside unit are on and the thermostat is set to 75 with auto fan, but the house is 85 degrees. I took a look at the unit in wall, and the wires are all cold, but the coils themselves are not. What could be the problem?

    Cameron, Myrtle Beach, SC

    Expert Answer

    From the information you provided, I cannot offer specifics as to why your unit is not working properly. Most likely, there was both a refrigerant leak and another problem with the unit when you had it checked…

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  • Compressor and fan on AC not in sync

    May.19.2010

    I had to replace the breaker on the AC unit in a rental house. The unit had been working fine. The renter had not cleaned the filter in over a year. The condensation built up causing the breaker to go. Now the compressor comes on and the house cools, but when the compressor shuts off the fan stays on bringing warm air back through the ducts until the compressor kicks back on. The coils on the unit get very cold but it seems as if the fan never shuts off. Do I need to replace the thermostat?

    Expert Answer

    I would advise you to have the cooling coil checked to see if it is clean. The compressor…

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  • Oil residue on outside unit

    May.11.2010

    My A/C is about 12 years old and has worked without any issues. However, it stopped blowing cool/cold air. There is some oil residue around the outside unit. Can this be a leaking compressor that can be replaced or must the whole unit be replaced? If replacement is necessary, should the furnace be replaced too?

    Expert Answer

    The oil is most likely refrigeration oil.  This is not a good sign.  I recommend a leak search.  If the outdoor unit has a leak, I advise that you replace the entire system, including the…

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  • Burnt terminals

    May.11.2010

    I recently had a guy look at my AC. His bill said something about a hermlock kit and it cost $342.86. His note said the terminals were burnt off the compressor and had to be replaced. He had a terrible attitude and took very little time explaining what he did. My AC stopped working again today only two days later. I feel things are not on par, but it could just be me having to repeat the process that I’m so angry about. Not sure. What should I do? Are you familiar with the parts and job provided?

    david, charleston, SC

    Expert Answer

    If the terminals are burnt off, it sounds very likely that the compressor is no good. The Hermlock kit is what is used to repair bad terminals on a…

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  • Blower in attic running hot

    May.10.2010

    The blower in our air conditioning unit (located in the attic) will run for a period of 3-4 hours and will run hot and quit working while the outside unit continues to run; we have replaced the blower twice, the capacitor twice and the circuit board once in recent weeks, to no avail. If we allow the blower to cool, say 18-20 hours, we are able to turn it back on to cool the house off over and over again. Can you provide any suggestions to what our problem might be?

    Michelle, Houston, TX

    Expert Answer

    I am really surprised that the motor runs for 3 to 4 hours. It is necessary to have a professional HVAC contractor check out this problem. I would look at the volts and RPM’s, as well as the rotation of the…

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  • Replace one or both AC units

    May.10.2010

    I have two 2 1/2-year-old SEER 10 units. The upstairs one seems to be fine; the downstairs one seems to be dead or dying. Without respect to budget, should I pay to repair the downstairs one, or just go ahead and replace both? I worry that if I repair one the other might be doomed soon after.

    Monica, Apex, NC

    Expert Answer

    My recommendation: Go ahead and replace both air conditioning units. I’m not sure what is wrong with your unit but, once the repairs are completed, you still…

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  • Replace thermostat?

    May.10.2010

    My ARS thermostat says “Replace” in the lower left corner and there is no other information on the screen. I replaced the batteries and it still shows “Replace” but also indicates 73 degrees with a ‘C’ next to it. However, the air conditioning does not come on. When I put the fan in the “on” instead of “auto” position, it blows air but not cool air. Do I need to replace my thermostat as it apparently is not measuring the temperature anymore? It has said 73 degrees for the past 36 hours.

    Chris, Chantilly, VA

    Expert Answer

    Have the thermostat checked by a professional HVAC contractor. The "Replace" might be for the filters.  Ask the technician to…

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  • Air conditioning unit frozen in attic

    May.5.2010

    I noticed last September that the central AC unit in the attic was frozen over. Is this a serious problem and what was the cause of this??

    Fred, Chelmsford, MA

    Expert Answer

    The simple answer to this question is that you either have an airflow issue or you may be low on refrigerant. There are several things that could be reducing airflow. Adequate airflow is necessary to keep the air…

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  • Annoying sound in copper heat pump line

    Apr.19.2010

    We've been in our new home for 4 months. It's multi-level and we have a separate air conditioning unit upstairs. The copper line runs up a wall in our great room to the heat pump upstairs. The problem is it sounds like we're hearing running water in the line. It's loud and annoying. HVAC guys said it was normal. Are they right? Maybe it's a lack of insulation?

    Steve, Louisville, KY

    Expert Answer

    I have heard this same noise several times. The line sets carry refrigerants from one of the components to the other, and that will make noise. One thing that may help: Check to see if the line set is against or…

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  • Flex ducts deteriorating

    Apr.10.2010

    The flex ducts in the attic of a house we are considering buying are deteriorating. Our inspector says it needs to be replaced. The owner has an inspection note from the local HVAC folks who inspected it in the last month saying it is fine. Basically the plastic vapor barrier is open and falling off and the insulation is loose around the flex duct. What would you recommend? I have pics that I can send. Thank you!

    S, Cary, NC

    Expert Answer

    Pictures would be very helpful. To properly assess this problem, I need to look at the flex and see whether or not the issue is at a connection. If so, the vapor barrier and insulation may not be secured…

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  • Refrigerant leak

    Apr.9.2010

    Last summer, we had to top off the coolant in our system a couple of times. The air conditioning system would gradually lose its ability to cool the upstairs zone. I suspect there is a leak in the coils. Is it possible to determine the source of the leak?

    Carl, Raleigh, NC

    Expert Answer

    Adding refrigerants (Freon) is not a good thing. In fact, if you have had several recent repairs to your system that have required additional refrigerant, that’s a sure sign that the system is leaking the…

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  • Freon information

    Apr.8.2010

    What is the price per pound of Freon? The different types of gasses? Does each HVAC make and or model hold different pounds of Freon?

    LaRita, houston, TX

    Expert Answer

    Your HVAC equipment should have a label on it stating what type of refrigerant and how much refrigerant it uses. Prices will vary based on the type of Freon (R-22) or other refrigerant you need. If you have had…

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  • Dirty AC filter or worse?

    Apr.7.2010

    I moved into this house about 10 months ago in the summer and my air got so cold we would have to use blankets. Now that it has warmed up again and I try to use it, it isn't cooling at all. I checked the filter on my air conditioning unit and it was badly dirty. Looked like it had been there a while. I changed it and I can't tell a difference. Could I have put it in the wrong way or could this be more serious?

    Dawn, Shelby, NC

    Expert Answer

    The solution to your problem could be as simple as the temperature setting on your thermostat. I am guessing that you have a heat pump. The dirty filter possibly may have caused the system to work very hard and…

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  • AC smells bad

    Feb.12.2010

    Why does my air conditioning smell bad when we turn it back on after a few hours or days say after a cold snap in Tampa? When we turn it back on the smell is horrible to a point where I have to run it with the windows open for a while. After it runs consistently for a while the smell eventually gets better or disappears. When the heater comes on though we do not have the smell problem, just the AC. We have replaced all our ductwork and the smell did not get better.

    Kathleen, Tampa, FL

    Expert Answer

    The first step is to try your best to identify the smell. If it smells like an electrical melting or burning of wires, you should definitely call a HVAC tech right away. This could be caused by a weak capacitator…

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  • Rust residue

    Feb.12.2010

    There is rust residue found at the primary condensation line discharge, and the unit is only 3 yrs old (2006). What was the most likely cause of this rust? What needs to be done to correct it? Will cleaning/maintenance alone address this issue?

    Jane, Peoria, AZ

    Expert Answer

    Most primary drain pans or condensate drains are made of plastic (PVC pipe) and do not rust. On the other hand, the coil does have some metal in the framing that will rust while the evaporative…

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  • Evaporator coil

    Dec.8.2009

    If I have a hole in my evaporator coil and all the Freon has leaked out, what needs to be replaced? Can you qualify for the tax credit if you only need to change the evaporator coil?

    Expert Answer

    First, determine the exact model and serial number of your unit. Check with the manufacturer to see if the coil is still under…

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  • AC vents leak in winter

    Dec.4.2009

    I have an air conditioning unit in my attic. Only in the winter do the vents leak water down the ceiling. The 6" duct is r6, and I wrapped the ducts with insulation. The house is truss roof construction, and the ductwork and vents I have the most problems with are an all downward chase to the vent. I have tried everything. Please help.

    Thomas, Ravenna, OH

    Expert Answer

    A lot depends on how much water you are seeing. When you have a cold attic and a warm house, the air from the home may be entering the ducts in the cold attic, and this may be causing condensation. You said that…

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  • Replacing old HVAC system

    Nov.12.2009

    My son is considering purchasing a 46-yr.-old home in Irving, TX. The home has the original HVAC system. What is the approximate cost of replacing the old system? The home is approximately 1900 square feet.

    Virginia, Plano, TX

    Expert Answer

    Cost of the equipment will vary based on the SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating) and the BTU’s you need to heat and cool the home. The SEER measures the energy efficiency of your system over a whole…

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  • Crawl space flood seepage and HVAC problems

    Nov.12.2009

    I am concerned about my HVAC system. The drain pipe leaks, and the air conditioning unit doesn't cool my bedroom enough. The unit is in the middle of my home in the crawl space and it is partially supported by cinder blocks. We recently had a flood, and seepage into the basement through the cinder blocks caused some mud. Can you help?

    Wendy, Douglasville, GA

    Expert Answer

    Water and HVAC equipment do not mix. Your crawl space needs to be checked out. It is possible that installation of a sump pump with battery back up would help. Sump pumps are designed for use where there are… Read more

  • Should I cover my AC unit during winter?

    Nov.12.2009

    Is there any reason to cover up the air conditioning unit during the winter months? I have been using a tarp but I’m not sure this is necessary.

    Richard, Cheswick, PA

    Expert Answer

    It is not necessary to cover an air conditioning unit in the winter months. If you prefer to cover yours, cover only the top third of the unit so that it has a chance for better air circulation. You will keep the… Read more

  • Power surge affected compressor

    Oct.22.2009

    After a power surge, my air compressor seems to have malfunctioned. The fan is blowing outside but the air is regular outside temperature. Not hot air. I’ve checked the circuit breaker but it was fine. I also cut the power for 30 minutes hoping it would return to normal after the power was restored. So far nothing has worked.

    Kevin, Miami Beach, FL

    Expert Answer

    If your air conditioning unit was running during the power surge, the air compressor most likely short cycled, which is caused by trying to restart the compressor before the refrigerant pressure has a chance to… Read more

  • Do I need filters in every room?

    Oct.22.2009

    I have air filters in every room of my house. I have a main filter in the garage so do I need the smaller filters throughout my home? I was told those filters cut the air flow. Please help.

    ROBERT, palm bay, FL

    Expert Answer

    I’m not sure why you have so many air filters. You are right; too many filters will cut down on your air flow. They will cause additional air restrictions that could result in performance issues. Usually if a… Read more

  • Thermostat off, AC sounds like still on

    Oct.22.2009

    The weather got cooler so I turned the thermostat off and opened my window over night. When I woke up the next morning, I heard the central air conditioning unit still on in my attic, and it seemed like the air was being sucked through my filter like it was still on. Can you tell me why?

    victor, concord, NC

    Expert Answer

    If you turned the thermostat off, your central air conditioning unit should be off. I think what you may be getting is a wind tunnel effect through your ductwork. Circulation of air through your home sometimes… Read more

  • AC leaking from copper hose

    Oct.22.2009

    My air conditioning unit inside the house on the second floor is leaking water from a copper looking hose. I had to turn it off and then I tried turning it back on but there was no more cool air. What is this copper hose and would this be considered a major repair?

    Joe, Fort Worth, TX

    Expert Answer

    The copper “hose” should be the refrigerant line. In fact, there should be two of these, one larger than the other. If the lines have ice on them you have an issue that will require a service call. You will need… Read more

  • Lime buildup in my drain

    Oct.15.2009

    I think I have lime build up in my 1975 built home; I saw it in the shower drain when cleaning and I put drain cleaner in it. What can be done about this?

    Wendy, Douglasville, GA

    Expert Answer

    Lime scale is a chalky, white mineral deposit that is a result of hard water (water with a high mineral content). A higher pH level (which measures the relative acidity) and hotter temperatures result in a larger… Read more

  • Why does my mobile home have 2 thermostats?

    Oct.10.2009

    I purchased a mobile home that has 2 thermostats, one with switches Heat Off Air, and one without switches. The home does have a central air conditioner, but I thought that the single thermostat without switches wasn’t necessary. I removed it and fixed the hole in the wall but now the furnace will not turn on. How can I fix this problem?

    james, plainfield, IN

    Expert Answer

    Your question has two possible answers. First, the thermostat you removed may have been a “smart stat” and necessary for proper operation of your systems. Smart stats, designed for energy efficiency, are preset to… Read more

  • While my air conditioner is running, sometimes the furnace flames kick on for a short amount of time.

    Sep.8.2009

    This just started recently.  While my AC/heat pump is running in the ac mode during summer, the furnace flames will kick on for some reason and sounds as if it is cycling the reverse valve.  The compressor will stay on but the outside condenser fan will turn off so it sounds like a refrigerator similar to what happens in winter to defrost the condenser.  Then after a minute or so the furnace flames will kick off and the outside fan will start again.  The compressor stays on through this whole process.  I have removed the filter as it was dirty to help with the airflow.  Is there a mechanism that allows the furnace to kick on if the evaporator in the air handler is icing up?  Or could the pressure be low causing the reverse valve to alternate.  The dual mercury thermostat seems to be ok.  The furnace is I believe a Jentrol (name plate is missing) made by the Goodman and is a ninety plus model.  Any thoughts on what this could be?

    Bill, Lancaster, OH

    Expert Answer

    If you have a Hybrid HVAC system the outdoor sensor might be faulty. If there is a malfunction in the outdoor sensor and it “thinks” the outdoor temperature is below the set point the system will switch on the gas… Read more

  • Several times a day our air conditioning clicks on, then immediately off. What could it be?

    Aug.26.2009

    Several times a day our air conditioning clicks on, then immediately off. We only hear this outside. We have 2 units and it only happens on the main one. The zonex control board and new thermostat were replaced but it still did it. A loose common wire on main area thermostat was repaired but it still did it. We then replaced the board again, and still the clicking on and off. It actually makes a big "clunk" like it is going to go on then it shuts off. This does not happen all the time. What can it be?

    Joe, Humble, TX

    Expert Answer

    What is surprising about your situation is that you have replaced so many parts of your air conditioning system, but the problem still persists. Given that so many attempts have been made to correct the issue with… Read more

  • Why is there water dripping from my air vent?

    Aug.20.2009

    My ac unit is in my attic. Recently I experienced water dripping from the air vent on the ceiling as well as on the ceiling itself. The dripping stopped slowly when I shut the unit off and began again shortly after I turned it on. What do you think this problem is and is it costly to fix.

    jill, easton, MA

    Expert Answer

    It sounds like you need the drain line and drain pan checked for proper draining. As your air conditioning unit works to remove humidity in the air to cool your home, the moisture in the air is turned into… Read more

  • I came home the other day and my air conditioner was not working.

    Aug.16.2009

    I came home the other day and my air conditioner was not working, but the bottom vent of the unit was blowing out freezing cold air, but the vents in the ceiling weren't blowing any air at all and the fan outside was blowing. I can hear it try to turn on when I drop the thermostat, but nothing happens.

    Stacy, Saint cloud, FL

    Expert Answer

    It sounds to me like your air conditioning unit may be icing up. Air conditioning systems frequently ice up if the refrigerant charge is not set to the proper level. For instance, if you have a refrigerant leak in… Read more

  • How can I tell if my roof vent is working right?

    Aug.14.2009

    Hello, I hope you can help. I’m having problems with a roof vent. My landlord says that the roof vent should stay running all the time and that the reason for that is to aid the ac unit and not run as much. But I set the ac at 75 downstairs, no stat up stairs temp upstairs in room 78 in crawspace 75. How can I tell if the vent is working right, and should it shut off at some point? If not what can I do? Thanks.

    ken, Fort Mill, SC

    Expert Answer

    A roof vent (also called an attic vent) is intended to keep your home cool by removing the radiant heat in the attic in warmer months. The fan should come on when the attic gets too warm, and shut down when the… Read more

  • My air conditioner is not working and I think it is a problem with the outside fan.

    Jul.29.2009

    I have a Trane xe1200 4 ton.  The air conditioner is not working right.  The AC will work for 5 minutes then stop.  I think the problem is with the outside fan.  The fan would turn on for 5 minutes then stop. It seems like it wants to turn on, but it can’t. There is a humming noise.  Could it be the fan or the start capacitor?  Help please. If the outside fan does not run, the compressor gets hot and shuts down.

    Cuong, houston, TX

    Expert Answer

    From what you have described, it sounds like something within your system has failed. The fan motor has a run capacitor that might have failed or the motor bearings are failing. I highly suggest you shut the unit… Read more

  • We have water leaking from the duct nearest the heating system.

    Jul.20.2009

    We just had a new heat pump/central air system installed over the winter. We are running the air conditioning right now. One day I came home to find a lot of water in the basement, created by water leaking from the duct nearest the heating system. We've got a bucket sitting on top of the water heater leaning against the heater catching the water. What the heck is going on? Thanks.

    Kathleen, Elverson, PA

    Expert Answer

    From what you described, it sounds like the condensate drain is not connected correctly. The condensate drain is the part of the unit that carries condensation out of the unit. I suggest contacting the HVAC Company… Read more

  • Should I upgrade the insulation around my ductwork?

    Jul.20.2009

    If the heat pump is upgraded to higher standards, new and more efficient such as the better Trane systems, how important is an insulation covering for the central metal ductwork, and should that be upgraded as well when the system is installed? Is that something that the HVAC company should include as part of the package or do we need to plan for additional work?

    Richard, Chapel Hill, NC

    Expert Answer

    The price of a new HVAC system may include new duct work or it might be an option to add on. It is very important to make sure your duct system is sealed correctly and the insulation is correct so you can take full… Read more

  • My air conditioning unit does not blow out strongly.

    Jul.17.2009

    My a/c unit does not blow out strongly and when I have it set to auto, after being on for so long the fan on the unit outside stops spinning like it ran hot or it needs to cool down. When I leave the thermostat set to on, it does not stop but runs continuously while still blowing weak air. Why is this? I had it serviced and the tech put in more Freon, but still the problem persisted.

    Tiniko, Westchester, IL

    Expert Answer

    It sounds like you are talking about two fan motors. The “auto” and the “on” positions on the thermostat are settings for the indoor fan motor. In your question you mentioned the outdoor fan motor on the condenser… Read more

  • I need a specific filter. Can you tell me where to buy it?

    Jun.29.2009

    We need a new outdoor filter. The size is 2x20x4. I have checked with Lowe's and Home Depot and they do not carry this size.  I would like to be able to purchase without having to have someone bring it out and charge us a service fee. Can you please inform me where I can make this purchase and approximately the cost?

    Lynette, Matthews, MT

    Expert Answer

    I am not sure of the exact filter you are referring to, however if local supply stores like Home Depot and Lowes do not carry the filter you need, I would suggest you check online. Although in some instances you can… Read more

  • What size HVAC unit should I get?

    Jun.26.2009

    I have a 21/2 ton unit to cool 1350 sq. feet, is that big enough to cool the house efficiently? I live in a doublewide home. And it is supposedly a 3 ton unit inside.

    Nancy, Del Valle, TX

    Expert Answer

    This is very similar to a question we had last week regarding proper HVAC unit sizing. The size of the unit needed depends on what type of fuel and system you are using to cool your home. A qualified HVAC technician… Read more

  • We returned from vacation to a warmer than usual house.

    Jun.19.2009

    We were gone 6 days on vacation left the ac on 78. When we got home the home was warmer than usual but figured it was the setting. Now we find the vents don't really blow and the outside fan is not moving but the handler in the garage is working. Can you tell me what is going on? I have called a tech to come out but it is always good to have another person’s knowledge on these matters.

    cheryl, wellington, FL

    Expert Answer

    A couple of things may have happened while you were on vacation, but it most likely sounds like you had a mechanical breakdown. Since the outdoor unit is not running, the unit could have tripped a circuit breaker,… Read more

  • When I turn my air down, the outdoor unit freezes up.

    Jun.17.2009

    If I turn my a/c any lower than 72 degrees then my outside unit freezes up. One of the pipes leading from the outside unit into the house actually accumulates about an inch of solid ice on it. I was told I just needed to have the Freon topped off? Is that all I would need? What kind of cost am I looking at?

    Don, indianapolis, IN

    Expert Answer

    Yes, a lack on refrigerant will cause your equipment to ice up. But while adding refrigerant may take care of this problem temporarily, if the Freon level is low then you have a leak somewhere in the refrigerant… Read more

  • Could there be a clog inside my unit blower or fan?

    May.20.2009

    My condenser unit outside is working and is on, but there is no air/heat coming out through the ventilation unit inside.  The inside blower is not turned on at all.  The thermostat showed cool air on.  Could there be a clog in my inside unit blower or fan?

    BRIAN, IRVINE, CA

    Expert Answer

    It sounds to me that the blower motor has most likely failed. If this is the case, you will need to call a professional HVAC technician to inspect your equipment. In the meantime, I recommend that you keep the air… Read more

  • Do I need to have my air ducts cleaned or vacuumed?

    May.15.2009

    I have a two story house, and some of my ducts, especially on top are not blowing a lot of air. I just moved into the house. Could the problem be faulty ductwork?  Will vacuuming the ducts/vents help solve the problem?

    Ray, Cupertino, CA

    Expert Answer

    I’m not sure how old the house is or when the ducts were last inspected, but dirty air ducts can leak air conditioned air and reduce your system’s efficiency. We recommend having your air ducts inspected and cleaned… Read more

  • I just purchased my home and one of the rooms does not get cool enough.

    May.12.2009

    I just purchased my home and it's about only four years old. The inspector said it was in great shape. My problem is that one of the rooms does not get cool enough. There is just barely enough air coming through the vent when the other parts of the house are very comfortable.  Can you think of a solution for this problem?

    Sandy, Pflugerville, TX

    Expert Answer

    It sounds like you need an air balance. If you have another room in your home that is getting too much air, then the damper needs to be adjusted.  The damper is a valve inside your ductwork that regulates the air… Read more

  • Is ice on the air handler a problem?

    May.4.2009

    My 9 year old Trane heat pump outdoor unit is running just fine and the unit under the house is running too. We have very little air coming out of the vents. The air that does come out is cool. Could the air handler be the culprit? It almost looks like there is a small ring of white ice on it. Thanks for your help!

    Expert Answer

    The “white ice” you described on the indoor unit means that the indoor evaporator has iced up, resulting in restricted air flow. This problem can be caused by a dirty air filter, a dirty evaporator coil, a loss of… Read more

  • My AC unit will not turn on.

    May.1.2009

    My AC unit will not turn on. I moved the inside digital wall switch to Air Conditioning, and the thermostat says "Cool on", but no cool air is flowing.  The outside unit is not even running/operating.  I even attempted to turn the heat on, and my heat will not even turn on.  Fuse box states everything is on.

    Launa, Woodbridge, VA

    Expert Answer

    It sounds like you have lost power to your indoor unit. Have you changed your air filter recently? I ask because if you have and the filter is behind the blower door, there is a safety switch on the door that will… Read more

  • My air conditioner runs all day. Could it be the filter?

    Apr.7.2009

    My A/C unit seems to run constantly during the daytime, even though my thermostat is set to 80 and the thermometer says its 80 it won’t shut off during the daytime. At night it shuts off fine. Our electric bill was $380 for 12 days of service. We have checked the duct work and don't see any holes, does the filter have anything to do with it? Also, it blows out cool air but doesn’t blow it out very hard.

    christen, Lake Butler, FL

    Expert Answer

    The very first thing you should do is check your air filter and change it if necessary. A clogged and dirty air filter will reduce the efficiency of your system and add stress to your heating and air conditioning… Read more

  • Should we get a second HVAC System installed?

    Feb.12.2009

    We are considering having a second Heating and air conditioning unit installed for the upstairs of our home. Right now the upstairs gets too warm in the summer and cold in the winter. What range of cost would that be and what should I consider when doing this? Our house is 2 stories with a basement (3200 Sq/ft without basement. The basement is unfinished and not connected to the heating/AC system. Our current heat is Gas. The goal of this project is to have the upstairs warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer while still keeping the downstairs at a comfortable temperature.

    Paul, Burke, VA

    Expert Answer

    Keeping your upstairs and downstairs comfortable all year round is a common HVAC problem. However before you think about adding second unit, I would consider an HVAC Zoning System if your ductwork allows. A zoned… Read more

  • I'm not getting any airflow in my master bedroom.

    Dec.2.2008

    I'm not getting any airflow in my master bedroom. I have a two story home with a dual unit. I've had 4 people come out and look at it. I was told to keep the downstairs thermostat 2 degrees colder than upstairs. It worked for a while but now I'm not getting any airflow. What is wrong with my system? I'm tired of paying somebody to come out just for it to go out again.

    alma, Porter, TX

    Expert Answer

    If the airflow problem is limited to a single room, then I would suspect a problem with the air duct system. You may want to check the ductwork for the system that controls your master bedroom and make sure nothing… Read more

  • What caused my a/c to need more Freon?

    Nov.11.2008

    I had a service call on my A/C unit, the tech added Freon to the system and did no other work. Shouldn't the cause of low freon be fixed or does this happen sometimes and all you need is a charge?

    Tom, The Woodlands, TX

    Expert Answer

    An a/c unit is a SEALED refrigerant system and therefore should not need additional Freon unless another problem exists. There are several conditions outside of the system that can cause the amount of Freon in the… Read more

  • I need help deciding on a brand of A/C unit to purchase

    Oct.27.2008

    I am having my air conditioner unit replaced and the company I am considering going with recommends Goodman's Air Conditioner. This is my first time hearing of this system. What do you think of a Goodman's system.

    Stella, Riverdale, GA

    Expert Answer

    There are several different brands of air conditioning systems available on the market. When selecting an air conditioning system, it is recommended that you select one that is fits both your home comfort needs and… Read more

  • Flushing the A/C drain pipe

    Oct.23.2008

    We recently had a "flush" inlet added to our A/C drain pipe under our ARS service contract. What should I use to flush the pipe? We seem to have a lot of mold in the air in our house and every fall we get a moldy smell (I cleaned the sink drains yesterday and am going to do the overflow drains and tub drains today.)

    William, Manassas, VA

    Expert Answer

    The “flush” inlet is actually a point where a technician can use a “blow kit” (consisting of a nozzle that attaches to a nitrogen regulator and tank) to blow the drain out during regular maintenance or if the drain… Read more

  • My overflow pan overflowed water onto my carpet

    Oct.8.2008

    Recently we noticed our bathroom carpet was wet. We have had problems with our faucet in the past, but I also noticed that there was a tray around my HVAC unit that was full of water. I used a shop-vac to suck the clog out of the drain pipe from the outside, and then noticed the tray near the HVAC unit was empty. Could this have caused a problem with having the wet carpet? The pipe does run under the bathroom.

    bruce, garner, NC

    Expert Answer

    The tray you are referring to sounds like your overflow drain pan, and from what you described, it performed exactly as it should have.  When the main drain on your a/c unit becomes clogged, the water is then… Read more

  • Should I install a programmable thermostat?

    Sep.29.2008

    I would like to replace my old thermostat with a new programmable one. I heard this will save me some money on my utility bill - is this true? Also, can I do it myself or do I need to call someone?

    Lindsey, Orlando, FL

    Expert Answer

    Yes, installing a programmable thermostat can provide savings. By programming your thermostat to heat up or cool down during the day (if you are not in the home), you may be able to save some money on your energy… Read more

  • Dripping water from a PVC pipe is causing mud in my yard

    Sep.23.2008

    There is a small PVC pipe sticking out of the side of my house on the 2nd floor. It has always dripped a little water occasionally, but this summer it has started dripping constantly, enough so that the ground beneath where it drips is muddy and has standing water. It's also leaving what appears to be rust marks on the siding where the water drips/runs down. The problem is, I have no idea what this pipe is, so I don't know who to call about it. Is it something related to the heat pump (which is in the attic), or the A/C (the unit is beside the house, don't know if anything is in the attic), or the washing machine (on the 2nd floor)? Or something else? I want this fixed but don't know what kind of service to call because I don't know what the pipe is!

    Rich, Durham, NC

    Expert Answer

    It sounds like the tube you are talking about is the condensate overflow drain for your air conditioning unit. Your air conditioner removes the humidity in your home by converting it into condensation or water.… Read more

  • My home has an odor when the A/C comes on

    Sep.12.2008

    Hi, I have an odor in my home - just in one location. It only happens when the A/C is on. It does not happen when it is off. I had a new unit put in by ARS/Rescue Rooter this past May. Also, last year in October, my house flooded due to a cracked toilet tank. This odor just started last week, but is getting worse every day. I do not know who to contact to come and check this out. I use your company all of the time and and trust your crews when they come out. Please advise who I need to contact for help. Thanks for your help.

    Josephine, Cypress, TX

    Expert Answer

    Smells are a very hard problem to diagnose without a visual inspection. Since the smell only occurs when the air conditioner is on, the problem is likely connected to the HVAC system but could also be due to… Read more

  • A/C blade doesn't turn

    Sep.10.2008

    Our air conditioning unit outside has stopped working. It tried to work, but the fan blade doesn't turn. Could you possibly tell me what it might be and if it is fixable at a reasonable rate?

    Shauna, OKC, OK

    Expert Answer

    The a/c condenser fan motor is driven by a capacitor — that assists the motor in starting up and continuously running at the appropriate RPMs. The reason your fan blades are not moving could be due to the motor or… Read more

  • Best way to manage a thermostat?

    Sep.2.2008

    My wife grew up in a home where they lowered and raised the temperature setting on their A/C depending on time of day, weather outside and monthly budget. My family’s air conditioner never budged from 75 degrees my entire life. Now that we have our own place together, we disagree on which way is best. Can you please end this argument once and for all?

    Craig, Sarasota, FL

    Expert Answer

    This question comes up on service calls all the time, so I’m glad you asked it here. There are a few points to consider. If you adjust your air conditioner based on the weather, try not to do so by more than… Read more

  • My utility bill is higher than normal

    Aug.28.2008

    My central air wasn't blowing cool air for a month and our consumption in power doubled between June 20 and July 22. It's staying at around 2,333 kwh for a 2 bedroom, 1100 square-foot apartment, and it seems that our central air unit just won't cool the apartment well. Our maintenance guy replaced our digital thermostat with a manual one, and it's just as bad as before. We have to keep the a/c unit at 80 degrees for it to shut off and even to blow cool air. We still have to use a fan in our bedroom and it seems that our bedroom is the warmest room in the house, probably from the television and computers being in there along with the central air unit sucking air in, right outside our bedroom door. I want to know if high power bills and a not-so-cool home equals a leak in the a/c unit?

    Trina, Las Vegas, NV

    Expert Answer

    To answer your question, there are several things that could cause an air conditioning unit to not cool your home or apartment properly and result in a higher utility bill.  First and foremost is lack of… Read more

  • A/C Blowing Room Temperature Air

    Aug.25.2008

    My air conditioning system is blowing air that is about room temperature instead of cold air. Does this mean I need to change my air filter? Thanks.

    Kate, Columbus, IN

    Expert Answer

    It would be a good idea to check the filter before calling for service. If it is very dirty and thick with dust, try putting in a new one to see if it solves your problem. If it doesn’t, check the thermostat to… Read more

  • My A/C blows warm air, can the fan stay on?

    Aug.21.2008

    My a/c is blowing warm air. The fan continues to run, but only when it’s switched to "on” - not "auto" - and the outside unit does not come on. We turned off the system, but do we need to turn the fan off, too, until we get help? Or can it stay on to circulate some air?

    Lois, Spring, TX

    Expert Answer

    Anytime the a/c is blowing warm air and does not seem to be cooling properly, it is best to turn it off and call for help. A lot of customers will turn down the thermostat, thinking it will make the unit cool - when… Read more

  • Metal framed filters vs. disposable filters

    Aug.19.2008

    I recently went to replace the air filter in one of our newer air conditioners and saw that it is a metal framed filter. Can I replace it with a disposable pleated paper filter?

    Carolyn, Winter Park, FL

    Expert Answer

    Yes, you can replace the metal frame filter with a disposable filter - as long as it is the same size. I would recommend spending a little extra money and purchasing something other than the disposable, fiberglass… Read more

  • My A/C unit makes a lot of noise, are my ducts ok?

    Aug.18.2008

    After changing out my entire unit from 2 1/2 to 3 ton, the air duct remained the same size. Due to the noise being louder than before, as well as having to change the filter about every 2 to 3 weeks, I wonder if my duct is now too small. It is a "closet type unit" with the duct being immediately below the unit and TV room area. When the unit runs, you have to turn up the volume, otherwise you cannot hear the TV. Can you advise? This is an ARS installed unit from some 5 years ago, does it effect my warranty?

    William, Houston, TX

    Expert Answer

    When ARS installed your new HVAC system, the technician would have taken into consideration the size of your duct work and determined whether it was large enough or not. The air conditioner noise concern you spoke… Read more

  • Outside A/C works, but no air inside

    Aug.15.2008

    Sometimes the outside unit turns on but nothing happens inside the house, no air comes from the vents. When I turn the unit off and back on, it starts working again.

    Mike, Gulf Breeze, FL

    Expert Answer

    How long does the outdoor air conditioning unit run before the blower comes on - or does it not come on at all? The reason I ask is because some manufacturers have a pre-set delay on the a/c indoor fan. This tells… Read more

  • How do I replace my air filter?

    Aug.5.2008

    I know this is probably a dumb question, but when I replace my A/C filter, does it really matter which direction it faces? Some filters have arrows on them, but they can be kind of confusing. Arrows pointing in? Arrows pointing out? I usually end up just putting it in any way it fits. Are filters even necessary? I know they're dirty when I change them, but what does that even mean? I'd like to skip the hassle all together. Can I?

    Barb, Los Angeles, CA

    Expert Answer

    This question comes up quite often. The easiest way to tell which way the air filter goes into your air conditioner is to remember that the arrows should always point towards the furnace. Air filters are designed to… Read more

  • Our A/C hose is no longer dripping water

    Jul.22.2008

    My air conditioner has a hose that leads to the backyard. Water has always trickled out of it, but recently it seems like water has completely stopped coming out. Should I be concerned?

    Jen, Austin, TX

    Expert Answer

    Yes, you should be concerned. As your air conditioner runs, it removes the humidity in your home by converting it into condensation or water. The air conditioner water drain line (the hose you’re asking about) is… Read more