Nothing interrupts your tranquility like a broken AC unit in the scorching heat of a record-breaking summer.
But in many cases, there are often warning signs that your system urgently needs an AC repair. And early attention could help you avoid a breakdown on those hot and humid days.
This guide will walk you through telltale signs that your AC system needs professional attention. Keep an eye on these signs to help save you time and money in the long run.
Unusual Noises
Air conditioners do make noise when running. But take note if the sound changes. That includes loud noises, buzzing, humming, clicking or rattling, or any other unusual sound.
Sound changes are a sign that your AC needs routine maintenance. And it could indicate a bigger problem that requires professional repair.
Any grinding, hissing, or screeching is a sign of a more serious issue and something you should address urgently. It could be a symptom of a leak, loose components, or a malfunctioning part.
The earlier you address these issues, the better it is for the lifespan of your AC unit.
Insufficient Cooling
Does your home feel more uncomfortable than it did in the past?
You might have a struggling AC unit that isn’t cooling your home effectively. When you can’t reach that optimum temperature, it could indicate a problem that needs repair.
It might be a low refrigerant level, a dirty air filter, or a malfunctioning compressor. Temperature problems also put more strain on your unit and, if not addressed, could lead to more complicated issues.
Uneven Temperature
Uneven temperatures in your home are another telltale sign that your AC unit needs professional attention.
You could find that some rooms in your home are noticeably warmer or cooler than others, despite your thermostat settings. Various factors can cause temperature problems.
That includes poor insulation, blocked vents, and dirty air filters. It might even indicate a leak. Always seek professional support for an AC repair if you have an issue with uneven room temperatures.
High Energy Bills
Have you seen a recent increase in your energy bills? It could be a rise in prices, but if it’s a hike in your energy use, it requires more investigation. High energy bills indicate that you might need an AC unit repair.
It could mean you have a faulty thermostat, leaks, or an aging system. Your AC unit may be working extra hard to keep you cool – and you’ll pay for that in your energy bills.
Regular maintenance and essential repairs will keep your AC unit running efficiently and ensure you don’t get astronomical energy bills.
Constantly Running Unit
A constantly running AC unit requires some professional attention. It’s a sign that things aren’t as efficient as they should be for your home.
You may have a problem with an oversized unit that cools the room too quickly but fails to remove humidity. Or you could have a thermostat in need of repair. Alternatively, it may be that you have a low refrigerant level.
It’s always best to get a professional to properly inspect your AC unit to figure out the underlying cause.
Unpleasant Odors
Unpleasant or unusual odors might be indicative of a severe issue. Always get these checked immediately. Musty smells signify mold or mildew. And that could be caused by excess moisture within the unit or ductwork.
A burning smell is a sign of overheating components or an electrical issue. Pungent smells could indicate a problem with the wires or even a pest infestation.
When you notice an unusual odor, book a professional to investigate the problem before it escalates.
High Humidity
A modern AC unit should do an excellent job of reducing humidity levels in your home. If that isn’t the case, there are some telltale signs to spot.
That includes condensation on windows, a musty smell, or general discomfort when resting indoors. High humidity can foster mold growth, so it’s worth addressing sooner rather than later.
If you want to measure humidity levels, buy a hygrometer. If it’s over 60%, call a professional to check your HVAC unit.
Frequent Resets
Frequent resets or trips with your AC might indicate an electrical or power issue. It means your AC unit is overworking due to some underlying problem. Common causes include dirty air filters and blocked vents.
It could also be a problem with the fan or refrigerant levels. Endless resets disrupt the cooling process, reducing comfort and damaging your AC unit.
Plus, electrical issues are a fire risk. So always get a reset problem checked promptly.
Presence of Water or Leaks
AC units create condensation. But excessive water or leaks are a sign of a problem. You’ll spot this if you see pools or water, or ice around your unit. Leaks could happen because of a clogged drain line refrigerant leak.
It could be due to part of the unit malfunctioning. When it happens, it impairs your system. And could also cause water damage to your home. Any signs of water or ice mean booking an emergency repair with an AC professional.
Aging Unit
Most units have a lifespan of around 10-15 years. If you have an older system, you could start to see deterioration. That will be more apparent if you haven’t had regular maintenance on your AC unit.
Signs of an aging system include high energy bills and problems cooling your home effectively. Regular AC maintenance and minor repairs will ease the AC problems in the short term. But aging systems will always need replacing eventually.
The Importance of Timely AC Repair
Timing is everything when it comes to addressing AC issues. A prompt AC repair can help prevent minor problems from escalating into expensive replacements.
Keep this guide handy to help spot the early warning signs of a problem.
If you have any of these issues, contact us today for a free estimate for our AC repair services. Joseph The Handyman offers professional support and returns your home to that cool, comfortable sanctuary.
