Repair and Service Split System Air Conditioner
The Broadmeadow Project: The residential contacted our office about their split system air conditioner that was leaking water from the indoor unit.
Project Details
- Client – Residential
- Property Type – Single-storey residential brick veneer house
- Location – Broadmeadow, NSW
- Task – Locate the cause of the water leakage from the indoor unit of their split system air conditioner
The Solution
We arrived at the home and could visibly see that the indoor aircon unit was leaking water. The tenant was capturing the water leakage so that it did not spill onto the floor. But obviously, they don’t want to be going through this process all the time. Our experienced technician immediately identified the problem was originating from a blocked drain.
Leaks from air conditioners are typically caused by a blocked drain pipe. This is due to the fact that a clogged drain line will cause the drip pan to overflow and result in leaks elsewhere. This may cause it to leak water inside, which has to be fixed right away to prevent damage to the air conditioning machine.
Cleaning the blocked air conditioner drain
We shut down the air conditioner and connected the dry nitrogen tank to the drain line. We used a regulator to control the pressure. We slowly opened the valve on the nitrogen tank. As we increased the pressure the drain line pushed out the debris that was blocking the line. We ran further tests to ensure that the water was now flowing correctly through the line. This fixed the water leakage problem. Having water leak from your air conditioner can cause multiple issues. If you don’t have the water leakage issue fixed eventually your air conditioner will rust and break down.
Cleaning the air conditioner filters
It had been a long time since the filters on this split system air conditioner had been cleaned. Both filters were covered with dust and other small particles. We removed the filters and took them outside. Using a hose, soap and a bucket of warm water we cleaned the filters.
What happens if you don’t clean the air conditioner filters?
Neglecting to clean or replace air conditioner filters can lead to several issues that affect both the efficiency of the system and the quality of air in your home. Here’s what can happen if you don’t maintain your AC filters:
1. Reduced Efficiency:
- Clogged Airflow: Dirty filters block airflow, making the air conditioner work harder to push air through the system. This reduces the system’s efficiency and increases energy consumption.
- Increased Electricity Bills: As the AC struggles to cool your space, it consumes more electricity, leading to higher electricity bills.
2. Poor Air Quality:
- Allergens and Dust: A dirty filter fails to trap dust, pollen, and other airborne particles, allowing them to circulate in your home. This can exacerbate allergies and respiratory issues.
- Mould Growth: A clogged filter can cause moisture to build up in the system, creating a breeding ground for mould, which can then spread through your home’s air.
3. System Overheating:
- Strain on Components: Restricted airflow causes the system to work harder, leading to overheating of the compressor and other components. This strain can cause parts to wear out faster.
- Frequent Repairs: Over time, the added strain can lead to system breakdowns, requiring costly repairs or even premature replacement of the unit.
4. Reduced Cooling Performance:
- Inconsistent Cooling: With restricted airflow, the AC may struggle to maintain the desired temperature, resulting in hot and cold spots in your home.
- Longer Cooling Times: It takes longer for the AC to cool your home, as it can’t circulate cool air efficiently.
5. Frozen Evaporator Coils:
- Ice Buildup: If the filter is too clogged, it can cause the evaporator coil to freeze due to insufficient airflow. This not only reduces cooling efficiency but can also damage the system.
6. Shortened System Lifespan:
- Wear and Tear: The added strain on the system from a dirty filter accelerates wear and tear, potentially reducing the lifespan of your air conditioner by several years.
Summary
Regularly cleaning or replacing your air conditioner’s filters is crucial to maintaining the efficiency of the system, ensuring good air quality, and preventing costly repairs or replacements. It’s generally recommended to check and clean or replace filters every 1-3 months, depending on usage and the environment in which the system operates.
