Causes of malfunctions of the air conditioner and their elimination by hand
There is a risk of damage when using the air conditioner. The presence of malfunctions in the air conditioner interferes with the normal operation of the equipment and reduces the efficiency of the equipment.
How the Self-Diagnosis System Works
Some models of air conditioners are equipped with a self-diagnosis function to determine the causes of breakdowns. The function allows you to be immediately informed of incorrect operation and a specific type of malfunction.
thermistor
A thermistor is a temperature sensor that converts a temperature value into resistance. Thanks to this effect, it is possible to adjust the cooling temperature.
indoor unit
The thermistor located in the indoor unit is the most important. Its purpose is to determine the ambient temperature. Based on the indicators of the indoor unit thermistor, you may find out that equipment repair is needed.
outdoor unit
The function of the outdoor unit is to restrict the operation of the air conditioner when the outdoor temperature is lower than the operation range. The air conditioner does not turn on if it exceeds the allowable limits.
Overload protection
The equipment's built-in overload protection provides automatic shutdown in the event of overheating. When the maximum operating capacity is reached, the air conditioner shuts off and does not start until the internal components have cooled.
Operation mode for cooling and heating
An air conditioner equipped with a heating function produces 3 to 4 times more heat than it uses electricity. Activating the heating mode during the cold season can lead to the blocking of an unheated compressor, since the refrigerant and compressor oil change their physical characteristics due to the low temperature.
Faulty cable
Equipment with automatic diagnosis in case of damage to the cable, blocks the possibility of switching on. This function prevents short circuits and electric shocks.
Exceeding the power consumption standard
When the air conditioner begins to consume electricity beyond the allowable rate, a shutdown occurs. This avoids a reduction in the life of the equipment.
Overvoltage in the outdoor unit
Power surges in the outdoor unit often cause a number of components to fail. For the protection and diagnostics of equipment, a voltage stabilizer is used, designed to convert electricity and maintain the output voltage within the established limits.
Fan motor failure
If the motor fails, the air conditioner cannot start the cooling mode. If the Check Control detects an engine malfunction, the equipment will not start.
Directional valve malfunction
Failure of the directional valve can lead to incorrect activation of the operating modes of the air conditioner. Self-diagnosis is carried out by monitoring the temperature of the air entering the room.
How to correctly diagnose manually
In types of air conditioners without a self-diagnosis function, you need to determine malfunctions yourself. There are several diagnostic methods to check for various faults.
Mechanical damage
Defects on the outside of the air conditioner can be detected by visual inspection. Damage to the internal components of household appliances can be detected in the presence of extraneous noises, spontaneous shutdowns and malfunctions.
Fixing blocks
Improperly installed or damaged unit brackets do not hold the equipment well, which can cause it to detach from the wall.To check the reliability of the fasteners, you need to check the condition of the fasteners.
Clamps and contacts
To check the condition of the contacts and clamps, you must ensure that they are firmly fixed in the sockets of the connectors. You should also check that there is no sign of compression on the insulation. When disconnecting and reconnecting the connector, the clips and contacts should not be forced.
Condition of air filters
The surface of the air conditioner air filter should not have a large amount of accumulated dirt. It is recommended to periodically clean the filter to ensure the free passage of air.
Cooling/heating mode check
When diagnosing, it is recommended to check the operation of the air conditioner in different modes. When switching between cooling and heating modes, you can know the incoming air temperature by placing your hand in the airflow.
Operation of mechanical blinds
After turning on the air conditioner, the mechanical blinds will automatically open and allow access to the airflow. When the equipment is off, the louvers provide protection against the ingress of dirt and dust. If the blinds do not work and can only be raised manually, they must be repaired.
Evaporator outlet air temperature
The temperature level at the outlet of the evaporator can be controlled manually. If the outdoor unit is located remotely, you cannot measure the temperature yourself.
How to check the pressure in the suction / discharge system
You can measure the pressure in the air conditioner using a pressure gauge station. The station hose is connected to the internal line and the device is started.
Leak test
To check the tightness of the air conditioner, the cooling circuit must be pressurized.For this, the fasteners are tightened and the pressure sensors are monitored.
Overview of major failures
Having familiarized yourself with the main faults, it will be easier to carry out repairs.
Each failure has different causes.
Does not light
The problem with turning on the air conditioner is the most common.The reason for this is natural wear or an internal breakdown.
Electrical part
When the equipment is turned on, the sensor sends a corresponding signal. A failure in the electrical part does not allow the sensor to work properly.
Control panel or receiving module
The remote control is used to control the air conditioner. Due to malfunctions of the remote control or the receiving sensor, the equipment cannot be turned on.
protection system
The air conditioners are equipped with an abuse protection system. If the system fails, the air conditioner will not start.
Parts wear
Long-term use causes component wear. Start-up malfunctions are due to normal wear and tear.
Shutdown after short term operation
A spontaneous shutdown indicates a failure. The problem may be associated with a violation of the rules of operation and internal malfunctions.
Ambient temperature
Air conditioners with automatic control function may turn off by themselves. This happens when the room is sufficiently cooled.
Dehumidification mode
In dehumidification mode, cooling is performed so that the heat exchanger of the indoor unit reaches the lowest temperature. When this mode is activated, the fan operates at minimum speed.
Compressor overheating
Overheating can cause the air conditioner to stop spontaneously.It will only be possible to start the equipment after the compressor has cooled down.
Broken control board
A board failure is interfering with the communication between the outdoor and indoor units. Most often, a board replacement is needed to fix the problem.
Faulty protection relay
The protective relay fails when the contacts stick or the winding breaks. If there is a malfunction, the air conditioner cannot work properly.
Elimination of indoor unit leaks
Condensation forms in the outdoor unit when the air conditioner is operating. Due to the breakage, part of the water begins to flow.
Installation of drainage system
The air conditioner is equipped with a drain to remove accumulated liquid. Improper installation of the system will cause leaks.
Mechanical damage to the housing
Liquid can also leak through cracks in the case. You can eliminate minor flaws with waterproof glue.
Bad smell
A pronounced odor is often generated when using the air conditioner. According to the specificity of the smell, you can figure out the problem.
Gorely
A burning smell is often caused by burnt wiring. When you smell the smell, you need to turn off the air conditioner and call a specialist.
Plastic
As a rule, the smell of plastic occurs in cheap equipment. High-quality equipment is made from safe materials without a pronounced odor.
Moisture and mold
The appearance of bacteria inside the device causes musty smell... To remove the smell, it is necessary to process the case from the inside.
bad sounds
By the sounds emitted, you can determine the reason for the malfunction. The presence of extraneous noise is often associated with an internal failure.
Irregular noise
Partial clogging of the filter or passage opening creates irregular noise. In this case, cleaning of the equipment is necessary.
ringing
For the first time after startup, clicking is the norm. Sound is associated with a change in housing temperature and the expansion or contraction of parts.
gurgling
Gurgling can be caused by damage to the drainage structure.
The presence of a fault leads to noise when draining the liquid.
Crush
Similar to the previous problem, squelching occurs when water is not drained properly. Also, the cause is often damage to the case.
Inefficient work
In some situations, the air conditioner does not work efficiently. To make the most of opportunities, you need to eliminate the root cause of the problem.
Clogged filters
The accumulation of dust and dirt on the filter does not allow the free passage of air. Cleaning the filter helps to correct the situation.
Dust entering the wheel
Dust on the impeller slows down its operation. As a result, the air conditioner cools the air less well.
Clogged heat exchanger
The role of a heat exchanger is to convert heat into cold air. Blockage reduces cooling efficiency.
freon leak
The air conditioner cannot operate without refrigerant. In the event of a freon leak, it will be necessary to compensate for the lack of funds.
Adaptation to severe frosts
Some models of air conditioners cannot operate at extremely low outdoor temperatures. Forced activation may cause failure.
Wrong choice of power
To quickly cool the room, you need to select the appropriate mode. Incorrect selection can lead to slow reaching of the required temperature.
Outdoor unit glaze
The ice covering the outdoor unit interferes with the operation of the unit.In winter, it is worth spilling the frozen crust.
How to properly clean or replace the filter
Cleaning and replacement of the filter is carried out depending on its type. The blocks are equipped with coarse and fine filters.
Coarse cleaning
Coarse fine-mesh filters collect large particles of dust and dirt. Cleaning is done at least twice a month.
Fine cleaning
A cascade of fine filters performs a complex absorption of contaminants. It is recommended to clean these filters once a month.
Unit disassembly sequence
When repairing it yourself, it is important to follow the disassembly sequence. It is recommended to record all actions on a camera.
What is necessary
Disassembly of the structure can be carried out using a set of standard tools. In particular, you will need screwdrivers and pliers.
How to remove
The home air conditioner is first disconnected from the network, then the housing cover is opened and the filters are removed. After that, you can disassemble the whole body.
How to disassemble
To disassemble the assembly, simply unscrew all the fasteners. You may also need to break the clips.
DIY repair
To do the repairs yourself, you need to follow the step-by-step instructions. The nuances of the repair depend on the specific breakdown.
What is necessary
Before repairing, you need to prepare a set of tools. Various accessories can come in handy at work, so it's best to have a complete set on hand.
Soldering iron
Using a soldering iron, they fix the contacts inside the blocks. Often, contacts are disconnected when diagnosing and dismantling an air conditioner.
solder
Solder is used to join parts when soldering. The melting point of the material is lower than that of the metals to be joined.
Rosin
The vitreous substance consists of various resin acids. Rosin is used in the soldering process.
Iron filings
Finely ground iron is used as a solder additive. Sawdust improves the quality of adhesion.
Cryolite
Cryolite is used as part of a brazing compound. Due to the mineral, it is possible to make a high-quality and even seam.
sodium sulphate
Together with sawdust and cryolite, sodium sulfate is added to the solder. The substance occurs as colorless crystals.
Flow activators
A combination of substances can be used as a flux enhancer. Commonly used table salt and lithium chloride.
Replacement of the fan impeller
Installation of a new impeller is necessary if it is badly damaged. To remove the impeller, you must dismantle the indoor unit.
How to replace a fan motor
To replace the motor, you must remove the fasteners and disconnect the wires. The assembly is carried out upside down.
Start capacitor replacement
The start capacitor is used to start the fan motor. To replace it, simply remove the condenser from the brackets and install a new one.
Complete compressor replacement
For a complete replacement, it is better to contact a specialist. Installation requires hands-on experience and specialized skills.
compressor repair methods
Compressor repair depends on the type of breakdown. In most cases, it is possible to do without sealing the cracks and soldering the contacts.
Is it possible to replace the control board
In difficult situations, the control board is replaced.It is important to choose the right board for the job.
Outdoor unit heat exchanger
A heat exchanger failure prevents the unit from being used for cooling. After diagnosis, repair or replacement of a component is required.
Welding
If the heat exchanger contacts are damaged, the solder can be removed. This requires a soldering iron and some solder.
Replacement
Installation of a new heat exchanger is carried out when the part is badly damaged. It is better to entrust the replacement to the specialists of the service center.
Pipe
The air conditioner pipe can be repaired using a special adhesive solution. If the hose has large cracks, it will need to be replaced.
When should you contact a specialist
It is necessary to call in specialists in the event of serious breakdowns. It is also worth giving the unit to a workshop in the absence of practical experience.
Experts repair air conditioners of all brands, including LG, Samsung and others.