Many problems can arise in your marine cooling system, and there are multiple troubleshooting solutions for these issues that a professional can try. If you are experiencing an issue with your marine HVAC system in Theodore, AL, check out the solutions for these five common problems.
1. Compressor Starting and Stopping Frequently
A common issue in a boat or ship’s AC is the compressor starting and stopping often. One reason could be that the high-pressure cutout is too high, or the low-pressure cutout is set too low. The simple solution would be for a professional to check the setting and change it to the best limits.
Frequent low-pressure cutout stopping could mean there is a clog in the suction filters, which would require professional cleaning. A more serious issue could be defective valves if the compressor discharge valve is leaking. Having a technician replace the defective valves will stop the frequent cut-outs and sensor pressure issues.
2. Icing of Marine HVAC Evaporator Coils
Icing of the evaporator coils is a common problem in marine refrigeration systems. One common reason is the temperature being set too low on the thermostat. Adjusting the thermostatic expansion valve (TEV) or the sensor will raise the temperature of the coils.
The coil capacity could be too small for the system, which would require larger capacity evaporator coils. Another reason for icing could be a malfunctioning defrost system. A technician can check the defrost system to see if it works properly at normal intervals.
3. Reduced Cooling Capacity
If your cooling system cannot keep the vessel’s provision room or cargo hold at the correct temperature, you may need your air conditioner repaired by professionals. A simple reason for this problem is low refrigerant within the HVAC system. Not enough insulation or damage to the room could also make it hard for your system to keep the room’s temperature.
Common issues that can cause reduced cooling capacity are an overcrowded room or a bad location for the thermostat. Having a professional move the thermostat or system sensors to a new location as well as making sure the room is not above its capacity will usually fix this issue. Another simple fix is closing the provision room door when leaving to enable the refrigeration to maintain the temperature.
4. Marine HVAC System Not Discharging Water
A marine HVAC system that still runs while not discharging water may have a clog. First, it could be a dirty raw water strainer that a technician needs to flush by opening the seacock and activating the primed pump.
If the AC pump is not working, it needs replacement. A professional can remove the condenser coil’s caps to allow the raw water strainer and pump to get water. If the system is still not discharging water, our NATE-certified technicians can investigate to find the cause.
5. Fan Failing While Compressor Is Running
The fan can fail when the thermostat is in cool mode and the compressor is on, but the fan is not working properly. The problem is usually a faulty capacitor or fan relay if the fan doesn’t start.
When you schedule repair service, professionals will replace the faulty components that prevent your system from running smoothly. In addition, the technicians will troubleshoot the electrical components after shutting off the vessel’s power. The complexity of the job depends on the layout of the system model, so be sure to ask an expert what to expect.
Regular maintenance of your marine HVAC is the only way to get the best performance from your climate control system at sea. Some typical maintenance tasks include keeping components clean and lubricated and replacing air filters to keep the ducts clean. If you are having issues with your marine HVAC system in Theodore, AL, call the experts at Air Specialty to schedule an appointment today.
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