If you have a central HVAC unit and feel a definite lack of cooling ability during the summer, then it may be time for an AC repair service. Repairs can occur both inside and outside the home, but typically, the outdoor condenser unit is to blame for an issue. And, sometimes the problem is an overheating unit. Keep reading to find out how a professional can solve this problem.

Check To See If That Fan Is Working 

Your air conditioner is made to force heat outside the home with the assistance of the heating coils and the fan unit. The fan pulls air over the warm coils, and the heat is transferred to the air where it is then discharged. However, if the fan is not working correctly, the AC condenser unit can overheat, causing a direct problem with heat transfer. This will create a much warmer atmosphere in the home. 

Your AC professional will often check the condenser fan right away to see if it is working well. The fan will typically turn on as the unit starts to work and will not turn off until the rest of the unit shuts down. A problem is present if the fan simply does not turn on at all or if turns on for only a short period of time.

There are a few causes of a malfunctioning AC fan. The fan blades may be bent and preventing the fan from turning, or the motor may have a short. The fan motor may have burned out as well, and all of these potential problems are considered.

Dirty Coils and Bent Fins

Sometimes an AC unit will overheat if the coil is too dirty. Dirt can build up on this coil and will prevent the transfer of heat as air passes by it. The coolant then stays warm. In many cases, when the coolant remains warm and resists phase change, the coolant compressor pump is placed under a great deal of stress. The pump can completely fail, or the seals can start leaking coolant. 

The best-case scenario involves a dirty coil that can be simply cleaned. This often means straightening the outside metal fins to access the coil a bit better. The outer case is released first, and a hose and brush are used for cleaning. At this time, the compressor pump may be inspected if the unit is still not working as it should. If the pump is deemed an issue, the coolant pressure will be checked for a leak.

To learn more, contact an air conditioning repair contractor.