Air Conditioning
Air conditioning is an essential part of your home's HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) system, providing cooling during warmer months and improving indoor air quality by reducing humidity levels. Central air conditioners typically consist of an outdoor unit (compressor/condenser), an indoor unit (evaporator coil), and ductwork for air distribution. Proper installation and regular maintenance ensure reliable operation, energy efficiency, and a comfortable indoor climate year-round.
Warrantability
Alberta New Home Warranty Standards:
Air conditioning systems fall under multiple warranty categories:
- 1-Year Coverage: Covers material and labor defects, such as improper installation, faulty components, or performance issues.
- 2-Year Coverage: Covered under distribution system warranties, protecting the HVAC ductwork or air distribution systems if they fail to deliver conditioned air properly.
Builder's Warranty:
- 1-Year Coverage: Covered under workmanship and materials warranty, protecting the HVAC ductwork or air distribution systems if they fail to deliver conditioned air properly due to defects.
Manufacturer's Warranty:
- Compressor: Often covered for 5-10 years depending on the brand.
- Evaporator Coil: May be covered for 5-10 years for defects.
- Extended Warranties: Some manufacturers offer extended warranties (up to 10 years) for major parts if registered after installation. Please Note: it is the responsibility of the homeowner to register for any extended warranty.
Maintenance
A well-maintained air conditioning system ensures reliable performance and energy efficiency:
Replace Filters Regularly:
- Change furnace filters every 3 months, depending on usage and filter type. Clogged filters can restrict airflow and reduce system performance.
Clean the Outdoor Unit (Condenser):
- Remove debris, dirt, and vegetation around the outdoor unit to ensure proper airflow. Use a soft brush to clean the fins.
Schedule Annual Professional Maintenance:
- Have a licensed HVAC technician inspect and tune up your system yearly. Focus on refrigerant levels, system calibration, and coil cleaning.
Adjust Thermostat Settings:
- To optimize performance, set thermostats at energy-efficient temperatures (e.g., 21-24°C in the summer).
Common Issues, Causes, Warrantability, and Repair Solutions
1. AC Not Cooling Properly
Causes:
- Clogged evaporator coil restricting airflow.
- Low refrigerant levels or leaks in the refrigerant lines.
- Faulty compressor or condenser fan hindering heat extraction.
Warrantability:
- Alberta New Home Warranty (1-2 Years): Air distribution issues caused by duct defects may be covered
- Builder's Warranty (1 Year): Installation flaws are covered for 1 year.
- Manufacturer's Warranty (5-10 Years): Covers compressor or refrigerant system failure within warranty periods
Repair Solution:
- If within warranty period: Contact serviceQ for installation-related repairs and assess concerns related to the distribution systems
- If outside warranty period: Refill refrigerant and repair leaks. Inspect outdoor condensers; replace failed components such as compressors or fans. Contact a licensed HVAC contractor to assist in repair.
2. Weak Airflow from Vents
Causes:
- Clogged or damaged ductwork restricting airflow.
- Dirty furnace filters or blower fan reducing air movement.
- Improper balancing of air distribution zones.
Warrantability:
- Alberta New Home Warranty (1-2 Years): Duct distribution failure falls under the 2-year systems warranty, including improperly sealed ducts or misaligned vents.
- Builder's Warranty (1 Year): An issue with the AC unit itself may be covered under the 1-year builder's warranty.
- Manufacturer's Warranty (1 -Year): Fan or blower motor defects are typically covered for 1- year.
Repair Solution:
- If within warranty period: Contact serviceQ for installation-related repairs and to assess concerns related to the distribution systems
- If outside warranty period: Inspect ductwork for clogs, gaps, or damage; clean or seal as needed. Replace furnace filters and clean blower fan blades to optimize airflow. Consult an HVAC professional to rebalance air zones if needed.
3. AC Unit is Making Unusual Noises
Cause:
- Loose or damaged components in the compressor, fan, or motor.
- Debris or obstruction in the outdoor unit causing rattling or banging.
- Worn belts or bearings creating squealing sounds.
Warrantability:
- Alberta New Home Warranty (1-2 Years): This is typically excluded unless it impacts air distribution or ductwork components covered under the 2-year warranty.
- Builder's Warranty (1-2 Year): Installation-related noises (from loose bolts or mounts) are covered for 1 year.
- Manufacturer's Warranty (5-10 Years): Covers compressor, motor, or fan defects (typically 5-10 years).
Repair Solution:
- If within warranty period: Contact serviceQ for installation-related repairs
- If outside warranty: Secure loose components and remove obstructions in the condenser unit. Replace worn belts or damaged fan motors. Schedule professional maintenance for persistent compressor noise.
4. AC Short Cycling
Causes:
- Thermostat issues causing the system to turn on and off quickly.
- Low refrigerant levels triggering protective system cutoff.
Warrantability:
- Alberta New Home Warranty (1-2 Years): Distribution system issues impacting airflow balance may fall under the 2-year coverage.
- Builder's Warranty (1-2 Year): Defects within the unit causing short cycling are covered for 1 year.
- Manufacturer's Warranty (1-10 Years): Covers thermostat defects or compressor issues causing short cycling (1-10 years depending on the type).
Repair Solution:
- If within warranty period: Contact serviceQ for installation-related repairs
- If outside warranty: Inspect and recalibrate thermostat settings; replace defective thermostats if needed. Verify refrigerant levels and refill or repair leaks. Consult an HVAC professional to assess and repair as needed.
Disclaimer: The information provided on this website is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal, technical, or warranty advice and Qualico and its affiliated companies make no warranty whatsoever with respect to such information, including (but not limited to) for fitness for a particular purpose. Product warranties are governed by manufacturers’ terms and conditions, and proper maintenance is required to uphold functionality and coverage. Qualico and its affiliated companies are not liable for any injury (personal or otherwise), harm, personal damage, or property damage caused by (i) the use or misuse of, (ii) neglect related to, or (iii) unforeseen events related to, the information provided above. For specific warranty and maintenance details, please refer to the manufacturer’s documentation.
