The main purpose of the air conditioner is to cool the air so that people do not suffer from heat in the hot summer days. For a long time, the heating function was considered optional and additional, but over time it became clear that it can be very useful, and many manufacturers began to integrate it into their products. Indeed, in the period when it was already cold, but the central heating has not yet turned on, it is the air conditioner with the heating function that can save the situation. However, in some cases, the device may start to fail, and in this case, you need to figure out what the matter is, whether there was a serious breakdown or some minor defect that can be fixed with your own hands.
Find out more about the most common air conditioning defects and troubleshooting. At the same time, you can find competent workshops for checking air conditioning, as well as for replacing defective climate components and comparing workshop offers without any obligation.
Most of the cars on our streets have handmade air conditioning. Here, the temperature is manually controlled by the driver, and the system is mechanically turned on and off. On the other hand, cars with a later date already have a convenient climate control system. It is enough to select the desired temperature, the system automatically adjusts the temperature. Regardless of the climate system you travel with, it is always a complex, complex, and coordinated system with many components.
How does the heating system work?
To understand why the air conditioner does not heat up, you first need to figure out why it can perform such a function, if initially this device was intended only for cooling. Manufacturers of some mobile devices and split systems installed ordinary ceramic heaters there or placed spiral devices in the system, then the device will work on the same principle as an ordinary room heater. However, this option consumes a lot of electricity.
When the air conditioner no longer cools
And each part of it may also not work. The most important components of an air conditioning system are a compressor, a condenser, a filter drier, an evaporator, a throttle or expansion valve, and, of course, a blower. If only one of these components is defective or leaking, the air conditioner will not cool or operate properly. In case of possible defects in the air conditioning system, the expert distinguishes between external damage and photographs of internal damage.
There is another method of heating, which is used in modern models. In this case, the direction of the usual movement of the refrigerant inside is changing, and therefore the evaporator and the condenser, in fact, begin to change roles and fulfill each other's functions. Simply put, working in this way, the device still cools, only not the apartment, but the air on the street, but it transfers heat to the room. 
The most common defects in the air conditioning system
Too low a refrigerant often results from a leak in the refrigerant circuit. In addition, forgotten maintenance may cause the air conditioner to no longer cool. This is due to the fact that about ten percent of the refrigerant per year runs off. If a new refrigerant is added to the air conditioning system, the defect can be eliminated at best. However, even the simplest maintenance should always be carried out by a specialist workshop, since too much refrigerant or refrigerant in the refrigeration circuit due to unprofessional or improper charging can already lead to defects in the air conditioning system.
Safe Modes for Devices
Before you figure out why the air conditioner does not blow warm air, you should find out if it can perform such a function. Not all devices are able to warm the room in extreme cold, and if the instructions do not contain additional instructions on this subject, then most likely the device can warm the air only at a certain temperature, up to -5 degrees Celsius outside the window. If you start using such an air conditioner in colder times, you can provoke a number of changes that will lead to problems.
Spatter and clogged air conditioning
A faulty compressor or humidity in the refrigerant circuit can also cause the air conditioner to cool or not function properly. Hard bottlenecks or even clogging in the refrigerant circuit are more often considered the cause. Here the problem often arises in one of the hoses, on the throttle or expansion valve, or on the clogging of the condenser on the air side. Also in these cases, the air conditioner does not work properly.
The sensitive components of the air conditioning system, the high pressure in the system, the sensitive coordination of all components and environmental aspects prohibit any intervention by the laity. They know how to diagnose malfunctioning or leaking air conditioning systems. They know how to solve the problem that air conditioning no longer cools. Depending on the driver’s instructions, a visual inspection is carried out after damage and leakage, inspection of the control unit and coolant pressure, as well as a functional test of the cooling fans.
- Compressor oil may begin to thicken if you turn on the device at low temperatures. The properties of this substance change, as a result of which, the device can be started “on a dry start”, which can lead to compressor failure. If you use the air conditioner for a long time in this mode, then an important part will quickly wear out and stop working.
- Sometimes you may notice that an air conditioner operating in heat transfer mode suddenly stops warming. In this case, the equipment tries to correct the situation and may try to raise the temperature of the heat exchanger, which, in the presence of cold weather, has become icy. The water formed after melting drains, but does not completely leave, so ice can appear in the pan. This leads to failure of the compressor fan. In addition, ice can significantly damage and deform the heat exchanger, which will cause leakage and leakage of the refrigerant.
- Given that the device takes heat from the street, the lower the temperature, the more difficult it is for him to do this, and the more energy he consumes. As a result, the operating efficiency decreases and a feeling may appear that the equipment does not warm at all if the difference between the temperatures reaches about 3 degrees.
Typically, manufacturers provide data in catalogs and indicate the power for heating at a temperature outside the window of 7 degrees Celsius, so you need to consider this fact when buying.
Various costs for air conditioning repairs
The further procedure depends on the errors found. Numerous air conditioning system defects are possible. And the cost of repairing a faulty or leaking air conditioning system can also vary. The simplest case is when the air conditioner is not cooling or not cooling properly, there is no refrigerant. The time needed at the workshop for climate services is manageable.
For climate services, the cost is about 100 euros - a realistic orientation, with about 70 percent of this due to the costs of the workshops. Initial assembly by experts is mandatory in any case. In the hot season there is no better way to sleep and work in a cool apartment. Just because the summer is getting warmer, more and more people are putting the device.
Do not torment equipment that is not intended for heating in real frost. It can help when it is only slightly colder outside, but it is not suitable for severe colds. 
Winter heating technology
There are devices that can function properly and subject to low outdoor temperatures. Manufacturers produce such devices, so they can be purchased without problems, and some craftsmen themselves install special components on a conventional air conditioner, filling it with R410A freon, which fully retains its properties at low temperatures.
If the air conditioning system does not work properly, this is often because there is not enough coolant in the pipe. In the following sections, you will find a description of how you can check at home if the hoses of your air conditioner are leaking. In addition, you will receive valuable tips on cleaning your air conditioner and make sure that it works and cools optimally.
The air conditioning system works by compressing the refrigerant in the circulation system and converting it to a liquid state. Liquid refrigerant needs energy to evaporate. This energy is removed from the air in the room, which is thus cooled. It is a colorless and odorless gas tetrafluoroethane. Both refrigerants are harmful to the environment and are considered greenhouse gases. For this reason, you should be careful when working with them and follow strict rules! If the air conditioning in the apartment does not cool properly, the refrigerant is often too low.
An inverter air conditioner can be used as a winter heater. These devices are quite expensive, and they are produced by well-known companies. Their technical characteristics and device features ensure successful operation at a temperature of -25-30 degrees Celsius.
If the air conditioner does not work for heating, the reasons may include the following factors.
The reason is infrequent leaks. During the initial installation, the air conditioning system is filled with refrigerant, which is continuously pumped into a closed circuit. If there is a leak in the hoses, this is not visible at first. However, over time, the power of the device decreases, the air conditioner does not cool properly. In this case, it is worth checking the tightness of the pipes. In the case of more than 3 kg of refrigerant, an annual leak test by specialists is mandatory.
Two methods are available. Once a leak is detected, you can use the kite to break it or replace an old seal. The disadvantage of this method is that the fluorescent liquid can be filled by an expert along with the refrigerant. With a simple set of three hoses and a pressure gauge, a specialist can check if your air conditioning system is leaking. On a bottle with nitrogen, he connects a pressure reducer and sets the initial pressure to 1.5 bar. Slowly increase it to 5 - 10 bar. Using a manometer, he observes a possible pressure loss, which indicates a crack in the line.
- In addition, it is toxic and dangerous to the environment!
- An alternative is an overpressure leak test.
- For this purpose, nitrogen is pumped into the pipeline at high pressure.
- For this purpose, it is necessary to turn off the air conditioning system.
- First he closes the red and blue hose and opens the valves.
- Freon pipeline clogged with an ice jam. If moisture has entered the sealed system for some reason, it may freeze and form a plug that interferes with the movement of the refrigerant through the system. It is impossible to defrost all this in winter; heating the highways will also not help in such a situation. You can try switching modes to change the direction of the cooler, creating heat in the unit from the outside. If this does not help, then you have to wait for spring.
- If there is not enough Freon in the system, it will not work. Typically, this is due to depressurization and leakage. Usually, in this case, the wizard is called to find the problem place, carry out evacuation and refuel the system.
- Contaminated parts can have a negative effect on the functioning of the device, preventing it from fully performing its functions. Timely cleaning will solve this problem. Periodically clean the device so that dirt does not accumulate on the elements, as this also helps to extend the overall life of the device. In addition, harmful bacteria can multiply due to dirt, which negatively affects the health of people who are constantly in the room.
- Sometimes certain components fail, for this reason, the air conditioner is malfunctioning. Modern devices are equipped with a self-diagnosis system, so on the panel you can see the breakdown code. In this case, it is better to call a specialist who is engaged in the repair of equipment.
In some cases, even if the air conditioner does not heat up for some time after switching on, do not immediately start to panic and think about breakdowns. First you need to wait, since the inclusion of the heating mode involves some changes during the operation of the device, and this may take time until the system is rebuilt. If the street is too cold air, and the air conditioner has not yet gained momentum, the room may also be cold for some time, so you will need to wait a bit until everything returns to normal by itself.
In principle, in this way, it is possible to check the tightness of the air conditioning system itself. If there is a leak on the line and the air conditioning system does not cool properly, the refrigerant must be replenished. However, they must be filled under vacuum to prevent air from entering the line and make the compressor rust. A vacuum pump and a measuring cylinder are necessary, among other things, to pump them in line. If something goes wrong, the manufacturer’s warranty will expire.
Therefore, if you prefer to become a professional, if you do not have experience in the field of climate engineering. In the workshop you save time, nerves and go to a safe place. A centralized and decentralized air conditioning system requires regular cleaning to ensure proper operation. A dirty air conditioner does not cool properly and becomes hazardous to health. Professional cleaning is still the best solution, but you can take a few steps yourself.
Does your air conditioner not cool the air in the apartment and turn off after a while? If you find any malfunction of the device, you need to urgently establish the cause and eliminate the malfunction.
Do not try to repair the equipment yourself. A person without specialized skills can only verify the correct temperature setting. If the settings failed or the program was set incorrectly, you can easily fix it. Any other unprofessional intervention will be not only useless, but can also significantly harm the system. Only a specialist is able to correctly determine why the air conditioner does not cool the air in the apartment. He will evaluate the amount of work and take the necessary measures to eliminate the problem.
Firstly, it is important to regularly clean the air conditioner filter, how to resolve bacteria, mold, dust and allergens on fibers and odors of air conditioning over time. If the device often works, the procedure should be repeated at least once a year.
For cleaning, you only need an antibacterial detergent and compressor, or water and vinegar. In the instruction manual. When the filter is off, use a vacuum cleaner or compressor to remove the filter from the dust. In the second stage, thoroughly clean it under running water with detergent or water and vinegar to kill any germs. Then dry it with an air compressor or let it dry in the sun. If it shows signs of wear, you should replace it. In many hardware stores and specialty stores you will find a replacement.
Causes of malfunctioning air conditioner
Malfunctions in the operation of air conditioners can occur for various reasons. This may be a breakdown due to external factors or a malfunction in the equipment mechanism.The reasons why the air conditioner weakly cools the room may be as follows:
- Pollution. The accumulation of dirt and dust on the filters or an external fan can significantly impede the operation of the device. The air conditioner performs its functions correctly, but pollution prevents the flow of cold air into the room.
Often equipment contamination occurs outside. Street dust, exhaust fumes and small debris can clog the radiator and heat exchanger. As a result, the air conditioner does not cool the air well and turns off periodically.
Before using a new filter, wipe all openings with a damp cloth. Further cleaning and disinfection of the air conditioning system in your home depends on your model. Many split systems consist of internal and external parts that must be cleaned separately. After cleaning the filter of the indoor unit, you should take the condensation tube under the magnifying glass. Algae have been formed, you can rinse it with a solution of water and bleach, leaving a stream through the funnel of liquid into the pipe.
Also, the drain hose should be cleaned with a brush. On the outdoor unit, first remove the cover and inspect the trims. If leaves, grass and other dirt are installed on it, the air supply may not work optimally. In this case, first suck the area and clean the gaps with a soft brush. Particles and dust also stick to the fan. As a result, the air conditioner is defective or smells. Unscrew the ribs, remove it and wipe it with a damp cloth. Finally, it is recommended that you clean the trims with a water hose. Make sure the pressure is not too high.
- Not enough freon. For the air conditioner to work properly, there must be enough freon in the internal tank. When functioning split - system freon gradually leaks. If condensation does not drip from the outdoor unit, this indicates the absence or insufficient amount of refrigerant. To fix the problem, just call the wizard, who will fill the equipment with freon.
- Valve malfunction. In the air conditioner, this part serves as a switch. With it, we get cold or warm air when setting the desired mode. When only one temperature is set for a long time or the device is not in use, valve sagging may occur. That is why air conditioning often does not chill after winter, heats or just ventilates room temperature air.
- Damage to the compressor. If the air conditioner does not cool, the cause of this may be the compressor malfunction. Its work is violated in the event of a short circuit, jamming, breakdown of case windings and other problems.
- Faulty temperature sensors. These elements serve as recognizers of a given temperature. If they fail, then the wrong signal will come into the system and, accordingly, the air conditioner does not cool, but heats the air.
How to quickly fix any malfunction in the air conditioner?
Only a qualified technician can restore your device to working condition. The wizard will conduct a thorough inspection of the equipment, establish the reasons why the air conditioner stopped cooling, fix the problem or replace the broken parts.Do not carry out repairs yourself. So you only exacerbate the situation, complicate the work of a specialist and entail extra costs for system recovery. In order for the equipment to perform its functions reliably and for a long time, it is worth paying attention to its prevention. Regular checking and cleaning of the air conditioner will protect it from unexpected breakdowns and clogging.
How much does air conditioning repair cost?
After you reset all the details, you can turn on the air conditioning system in the building. Frequent, thorough filter cleaning leaves the air conditioning system in your home for a long time. But the one who does everything right can also experience unpleasant surprises. The compressor may be malfunctioning. In this case, the device will stop servicing or not cool properly. Also, unpleasant noise often occurs due to an inoperative compressor. The line leak problem is also a problem.
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