How to Troubleshoot AC Master Service Chemical Issues at Home

Quick answer (read this first)

• Weak or inconsistent cooling after service.
• Unusual odors emanating from the AC unit.
• Visible water leakage from the indoor unit.
• Increased or abnormal noise levels during operation.

Safety first

• Always turn off the AC unit and its main power supply before any inspection.
• Do not touch electrical components, especially if wet.
• Wear gloves to protect hands from any residual chemicals or sharp edges.
• Avoid direct contact with any suspected chemical residues.

Tools you may need

• Screwdriver (Phillips and flathead)
• Cleaning cloth or old towels
• Flashlight
• Gloves

Step-by-step

Step 1

Turn Off Power Completely: Locate your AC’s main circuit breaker and switch it to the “OFF” position. This is crucial for your safety before any inspection.

Step 2

Inspect Indoor Unit for Residue and Leaks: Carefully open the front panel of your indoor unit. Look for any visible chemical residue on coils, fan, or casing. Check for water drips or unusual moisture, which could indicate a blocked drain or improper reassembly.

Step 3

Examine the Drain Pipe: Locate the PVC drain pipe connected to your indoor unit. Inspect it for any visible blockages, kinks, or disconnections. A clogged drain is a common cause of water leakage after service.

Step 4

Check Air Filters: Remove and inspect the air filters. Even after a service, they might be dirty, improperly seated, or damaged, which can restrict airflow and mimic other issues. Clean or replace if necessary.

Step 5

Perform a Smell Test: With the unit still off, carefully sniff near the indoor unit and drain pipe for any lingering, strong chemical odors. A persistent chemical smell suggests incomplete rinsing or issues with the cleaning agent.

Step 6

Inspect Outdoor Unit (Briefly): Visually check the outdoor unit for any obvious debris lodged in the condenser fins, loose connections, or signs of improper reassembly that might affect performance. Warning: Do not attempt to clean or tamper with internal components of the outdoor unit.

Step 7

Restore Power and Observe Initial Operation: After reassembling the indoor unit, switch the main power back on. Turn on your AC and set it to a low temperature. Carefully observe the unit for the first 30-60 minutes, noting any immediate strange noises, persistent odors, or water leaks.

Step 8

Assess Cooling Performance and Airflow: Feel the air coming from the vents. It should be consistently cool and the airflow strong. Inconsistent cooling or weak airflow after this observation period suggests an underlying issue.

Common mistakes

• Forgetting to turn off the main power supply before inspecting the unit.
• Ignoring minor drips, which can escalate into significant leaks or damage.
• Attempting to fix complex issues involving refrigerant or internal components yourself.
• Assuming every post-service issue is chemical-related, overlooking simpler causes like clogged filters.
• Not giving the AC sufficient time to stabilize and cool after restarting.

When to call a professional

• If there is persistent weak cooling or no cooling at all.
• When you detect strong, unusual chemical smells.
• If there is significant or continuous water leakage.
• When the unit makes loud, unusual banging, grinding, or hissing noises.
• If you suspect electrical issues, such as tripping breakers or sparking.
• If you notice ice formation on the coils.
• When you suspect a refrigerant leak.