On average, a central air conditioning system lasts for 12 to 17 years. While your system might last this long, there is always a chance you will experience issues with it from time to time. Any part of the system can wear out, break, or malfunction, including the outdoor part. The outdoor part of the system contains three main components. Here are some of the issues you might face with these parts.

The Compressor Might Fail

The three components found in the outdoor part of your AC system are the compressor, condenser coils, and refrigerant lines. The compressor is the part of the system that assists with extracting the heat from the air. Without this part, your system cannot create cold air. If the compressor fails, it can cause your system to keep running, but the system will not produce cool air. It cannot produce cool air without the compressor operating correctly. A compressor generally lasts for many years, but it can fail in some cases. Replacing it is the best solution if this is the case.

Issues With the Condenser Coils

The condenser coils also play a vital role in your AC's operations. Their main purpose is to blow cold air over the coils to help the air release the heat. When the coils are too dirty, they cannot do this job properly. As a result, your system might malfunction when the coils get dirty. If the condenser fan breaks, it also interferes with the process, leaving you with hot air in your home. You can prevent dirty coils by keeping the system clean. You can trim nearby plants and pull leaves out of the unit if you notice them inside.

There Is No Power

If you notice that your outdoor unit is not turning on, you might have a problem with your power supply. If you can, check to make sure the breaker is still on. You can even turn the breaker off and back on to test it. When the system is not getting power, it cannot operate.

The System Is Low on Coolant

Another issue you might have with your outdoor component involves problems with the coolant. Every AC system uses coolant to extract the heat from the hot air. Without enough coolant, your system will not produce hot air. If your system short cycles, meaning that it continuously turns on and off, it might be due to low coolant.

When a system is low on coolant, it might be due to a leak. An HVAC company will test the refrigerant lines to determine if there is a leak. If they find one, they will repair it. If they do not find one, they will try to determine why the coolant is low. There has to be a reason the coolant is low, as the coolant is in a closed system.

An Animal Chewed the Wires

In a lot of cases, homeowners find that they have problems with critters getting inside the compressor. The compressor sits outside your house, leaving it exposed to animals. If mice get inside, for example, they might build a nest. While they are in there, they might chew through some of the wires. If this occurs, it causes a problem with the power supply, leaving your system unable to run. Any type of critter can get inside your compressor and cause problems. You may want to ask the HVAC company what you can do to prevent this in the future.

If you have any questions about your AC system, you can contact an AC company. You can also contact one if your system currently needs repairs.

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