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How to unclog trane air conditioner and save hundreds on calls

Rob is a seasoned home improvement writer with over 15 years of experience researching and recommending products for the home. Prior to starting Nurturing Homeaid, he wrote extensively for This Old House magazine and has been featured as a home expert on several TV and radio programs. An avid DIY-er,...

What To Know

  • Before you begin working on your air conditioner, it is important to turn off the power to the unit.
  • To clean the evaporator coil, use a soft brush or a vacuum cleaner with a soft brush attachment.
  • You should clean your Trane air conditioner at least once a year, or more often if you live in a dusty or humid environment.

If your Trane air conditioner is not cooling your home effectively, it may be time to unclog it. A clogged air conditioner can lead to a number of problems, including reduced airflow, increased energy consumption, and even premature failure.

Signs of a Clogged Air Conditioner

There are several signs that may indicate your air conditioner is clogged. These include:

  • Reduced airflow from the vents
  • Increased noise from the unit
  • Higher energy bills
  • A musty or moldy smell
  • Water leaking from the unit

How to Unclog a Trane Air Conditioner

If you suspect your Trane air conditioner is clogged, there are a few steps you can take to unclog it.

1. Turn off the power to the unit.

Before you begin working on your air conditioner, it is important to turn off the power to the unit. This will prevent you from getting shocked.

2. Remove the access panel.

The access panel is typically located on the side of the unit. Use a screwdriver to remove the screws that hold the panel in place.

3. Clean the evaporator coil.

The evaporator coil is located inside the unit. It is responsible for absorbing heat from the air. Over time, the evaporator coil can become clogged with dust, dirt, and other debris. To clean the evaporator coil, use a soft brush or a vacuum cleaner with a soft brush attachment.

4. Clean the condenser coil.

The condenser coil is located on the outside of the unit. It is responsible for releasing heat from the air. Over time, the condenser coil can become clogged with leaves, grass, and other debris. To clean the condenser coil, use a garden hose with a nozzle attachment.

5. Check the drain line.

The drain line is responsible for draining water from the air conditioner. If the drain line is clogged, water can back up and cause the unit to leak. To check the drain line, pour a cup of water down the line. If the water does not drain out, the line is clogged. To unclog the drain line, use a wire or a pipe cleaner.

6. Reset the unit.

Once you have cleaned the evaporator coil, the condenser coil, and the drain line, reset the unit. To do this, turn the power back on and set the thermostat to cool. The unit should start working normally.

Troubleshooting Tips

If you have followed the steps above and your air conditioner is still not working properly, there may be another problem. Here are a few troubleshooting tips:

  • Check the air filter. A dirty air filter can restrict airflow and cause the unit to overheat.
  • Check the refrigerant levels. Low refrigerant levels can cause the unit to lose cooling capacity.
  • Check the electrical connections. Loose or damaged electrical connections can prevent the unit from working properly.

When to Call a Professional

If you are unable to unclog your Trane air conditioner yourself, it is important to call a professional. A qualified technician will be able to diagnose the problem and repair the unit quickly and efficiently.

Summary: Keep Your Trane Air Conditioner Running Smoothly

By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can keep your Trane air conditioner running smoothly and efficiently. If you have any questions or concerns, please consult with a qualified HVAC technician.

Common Questions and Answers

1. How often should I clean my Trane air conditioner?

You should clean your Trane air conditioner at least once a year, or more often if you live in a dusty or humid environment.

2. What are the signs of a clogged air conditioner?

The signs of a clogged air conditioner include reduced airflow, increased noise, higher energy bills, and a musty or moldy smell.

3. Can I unclog my Trane air conditioner myself?

Yes, you can unclog your Trane air conditioner yourself by following the steps outlined in this guide. However, if you are not comfortable working on your air conditioner, it is best to call a qualified HVAC technician.

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Rob Sanders

Rob is a seasoned home improvement writer with over 15 years of experience researching and recommending products for the home. Prior to starting Nurturing Homeaid, he wrote extensively for This Old House magazine and has been featured as a home expert on several TV and radio programs. An avid DIY-er, Rob takes pride in testing out the latest tools and gadgets to see how they can make home projects easier. When it comes to heating systems, he's evaluated over 50 different furnace and boiler models over the years. Rob founded Nurturing Homeaid with his business partner Jim in 2020 to provide homeowners with genuine product recommendations they can trust. In his free time, Rob enjoys remodeling old homes with his family and traveling to visit architectural landmarks across the country. He holds a bachelor's degree in Journalism from Syracuse University.
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