Can I run my central air without the outside fan unit working?
Homeowners often ask, “can I run my central air without the outside fax unit working?” We break it down and explain how HVAC systems work and what happens in both parts of the system.
Many homeowners wonder if they can run their central air without the outside fan unit working. This may be simply a way to cut down on energy costs. It may sound like a great way to save money while keeping your air circulating.
But it may not save you money in the long run. You may have also turned on your air conditioner and notice that it isn’t cooling your home. You take a look outside and realize that the outside unit is off. You may wonder if you can just keep using the inside unit for the time being. Either way, we have answers for you.
How the HVAC System Works?
There are many moving parts of an HVAC system. The heat pump controls the temperature of the unit that cools and heats the air. In the summer the refrigerant inside the coil and the cool air that develops is sent through the vents in your home.
A central air conditioning system utilizes two fans. One is located inside the home and brings cool air in through the ducts. The other, located outside the home, blows onto the condenser coils to remove heat from the air. Without both of these fully working, you won’t have the best cooling possible in the home.
Running Your Central Air Without the Outside Fan Unit Working
While it’s possible to run without the other, it won’t work well. If you notice that your fan isn’t working, it can do a lot of damage to your system as it overheats. You can circulate the cooler air around your home to avoid it feeling stuffy inside. But you get cleaner air when the entire system working.
Tips When One Side Isn’t Working
If you discover that one segment of your HVAC system isn’t working, start by making sure that the AC is on. Do this by checking the switch in the box next to your outside unit. A safety switch could have locked the unit. If this is the case, reset it by turning off the system for one minute and turning it back on.
Check the breaker to ensure that it hasn’t tripped. Simply turn it off and back on. Ensure that you have your thermostat on cool and you set it three degrees cooler than the current room temperature.
If your outside unit isn’t working, but the inside unit is the compressor in the exterior unit may not be working. If this needs to be replaced, it may be the best time to buy an entire system. Other issues that could be causing the problem include freezing coils, a malfunctioning condenser fan, an electrical problem, or an issue with the refrigerant line.
If your outside unit is on, but your fan isn’t spinning around. There may be warm air coming from the vents inside your home. This could be caused by a faulty capacitor, a loose or broken belt, inefficient power getting to the unit, an issue with the contactor, or the motor could be burnt out.
If neither part of your HVAC system is working. If your outside unit is not turning on at all and there is no air coming into your vents, it’s time to call a licensed HVAC professional.
Maintaining Your HVAC Unit
To ensure that your HVAC system cools well and lasts as long as possible, you must maintain it regularly. Do this by keeping vents and registers clean, changing your air filter regularly, and having a professional perform annual maintenance checks and tasks. Jamison Heating & Cooling Services has been providing regular preventative maintenance for clients for years and would love to help you!
Handling HVAC issues can be overwhelming. Jamison Heating & Cooling Services has the best licensed HVAC professionals in the business, and we are ready to help you diagnose and repair any HVAC issues. Our team of experts cares about helping our clients to keep cool and do so affordably.
