Wednesday, June 17, 2009

Repair A Self Contained A/C Unit

Get your window unit working again with a new power cord.


Self-contained AC units are typically referred to as "wall units" or "window units" because they are set up in windows or walls. If you are having problems with your self-contained unit, there are a few things that you can do before you call a technician or replace the system altogether. Typical problems reside in power to unit, a dirty condenser coil or problems with the internal fan. You can tackle these problems yourself with minimal knowledge of the unit. Does this Spark an idea?


Instructions


1. Check the power cord for any damage. If you do find damage to the power cord, replace it. Do not plug the cord back into the wall as this could cause an electrical fire or a short to the system.


2. Clean the condenser coil on the back of the unit if warm air is coming through, using a coil cleaner. Wait about 5 minutes after you have cleaned the coil and then restart the unit.


3. Change the temperature, then wait 10 minutes to see if the unit is working properly. When you change the temperature on your unit, it takes at least 10 minutes before the setting can be reached.


4. Pull the unit casing from the front of the unit if no air is blowing through the system. Check the fan on the inside of the unit to make sure that nothing is blocking it.


5. Set the unit to "Fan" to defrost the condenser coil. Your condenser coil can freeze up over time. Wait about 30 minutes for the coil to defrost and then set the temperature that you want.


6. Pull the filter out of the front of the unit and use a vacuum to clean it. If the filter is full, the unit will not run properly. Replace the filter if there are any tears.







Tags: condenser coil, power cord, about minutes, front unit, problems with, unit working