Signs Your AC System Needs Repair
Let’s walk through the key indicators that tell you it’s time to call for professional AC repair.
Recognizing Inefficient Cooling as One of the Top Signs Your AC System Needs Repair
It’s the peak of summer, and your AC is running non-stop. However, you’re still feeling that heavy, sticky air, right? A properly functioning air conditioner should maintain a comfortable temperature. However, air conditioners generally can struggle or fail entirely as cooling components age.
Warm Air Blowing
Nothing’s more frustrating than your AC blowing warm air when it’s set to cool. Double-check your ac thermostat.
It’s possible that it is on “heat” or “fan only.” If your AC unit is blowing warm air even with correct settings, there might be a serious problem.
A low refrigerant level or a failing compressor are common signs. Contact a professional HVAC technician to examine this, as well due to the complex electrical components involved.
Weak Air Flow From AC Unit
Put your hand up to a vent when the air conditioner turns on. Does the air feel powerful enough to cool your home? Weak airflow could signal bigger problems.
A blockage in the ductwork may be the culprit. It could also point to a failing compressor. Either way, you may want to check for blockages first, and then call an HVAC technician if the situation continues and you still experience poor airflow.
Inconsistent Temperatures are Signals that Your Air Conditioning Isn’t Working Correctly
Have you noticed that some rooms in your home are colder than others? Your AC may be struggling to evenly distribute cool air.
Inconsistent cooling can come from blocked vents. Issues can come from problems with the unit itself and a telltale signal air conditioning isn’t working.
Be Aware of Strange Noises as Potential Signs Your Air Conditioning System Needs Repair
Your air conditioner isn’t silent and typically emits a soft hum during operation. Noises outside of that should make you wonder and can indicate signs your air conditioning system needs repair.
Loud or Unusual AC Noises
Banging, grinding, or screeching sounds should set off alarm bells. It’s normal for air conditioning to be required, and to make low-level sounds as it starts up and shuts down. Listen carefully; rattling could be loose parts while whistling can signal internal pressure issues and point to a needed conditioner repair.
Ignoring unusual sounds may cause damage in the future, and leave you to conduct conditioner repair that could be expensive to conduct.
So turn off your unit, and seek out HVAC professionals, because noises are also a warning sign for Furnaces as well, with there being signs your furnace may need repair too. You want to make sure that your home is running with fresh air throughout it.
AC Cycling On and Off Frequently
An AC unit should run in consistent cycles, maintaining temperature. It should maintain that comfortable temperature, right? If you see that your AC frequently turns on and off you may have big problems to solve, that are often expensive to fix.
Short cycling strains parts, and drives up energy bills and costs. Address it now for long-term savings on things such as unit replacement and maintenance service, to avoid needing a costly unit repair.
Address These Other Major Signs Your Air Conditioning System Needs Repair Immediately
Beyond cooling issues and odd sounds, there are more indicators you need professional help. Catching these signs early could help you get AC repair service sooner – just keep an eye out for these common indicators.
Unpleasant AC Odors
An air conditioner shouldn’t stink. If you smell something foul from your vents when AC is turned on, pay close attention.
Unpleasant smells include burning and may come from electrical problems. A musty smell could signal mold contamination which could lead to poor air quality.
High Humidity When AC Is On
Your air conditioner does more than lower temperatures. It’s important that your conditioning unit maintains steady humidity levels too.
A properly working AC moderates moisture levels. This will keep you in that Goldilocks zone and avoid that swamp-like feeling inside of your house and keep humidity at a comfortable level.
So although you know how humid Georgia summers can be, inside is a safe haven for cool and lower humidity. This is where AC maintenance becomes a must.
Water Leaks are Not Safe for Air Conditioners
Water around your AC isn’t a good sign. Condensation is normal, but active leaks? That’s an urgent problem, even moisture leaking from your AC system can turn into a big problem and could be linked to a refrigerant leak.
Ignoring water leaks can result in water damage to walls or ceilings depending on the placement of your AC system. Moreover, continuously leaking water out of your AC unit can lead to major damage in the future.
Rising Energy Bills, a Subtle Signal Air Conditioning Can Give You
Keep an eye on your energy bills. Spikes in your electric bill often indicate an AC unit is working harder than usual. So increasing energy bills may mean repair, and you may want unit replacement options. Also, be sure that you are not experiencing insufficient airflow.
Look for sudden increases even when usage habits are unchanged. This could come from old age as air conditioners become less efficient as time passes. Therefore, seek assistance when in doubt and get the problem fixed.
Consider System Age When Thinking about Signs Your Air Conditioning System Needs Repair
Age can have consequences for even the best cooling systems. Most units only last around a decade, so replacement may make sense to do and it is important to note signs your air conditioning system needs repair with an older system.
The Downside of Old AC Units
Energy Star suggests if your air conditioner is more than 10 years old it may be time to look at AC replacement. Also, be extra attentive for conditioning unit concerns if they are past the age of 15.
Why? Newer air conditioners offer better energy efficiency which gives homes an increased resale value and reduces the load you may carry to save you money for a maintenance service.
Below is a table you can use to compare what unit works best for you.
| Feature | Old AC Unit | New AC Unit |
| Energy Efficiency | Lower | Higher |
| Repair Frequency | More Frequent | Less Frequent |
| Cost of Operation | Higher | Lower |
| Environmental Impact | Higher | Lower |
| Home Resale Value | Lower | Higher |
Boost Your Health With AC System Improvements
A good AC is an air purification and comfort system all rolled into one device. The benefits can often extend beyond just maintaining a pleasant temperature.
Air Quality
Malfunctioning HVAC systems can increase indoor air pollution. This is very dangerous for adults, and little ones with weaker immune systems too.
With allergies impacting about 50 million people in the US, regular HVAC maintenance to prevent mold growth should be top priority.
Poor air quality mixed with mold problems, leads to another health problem. Approximately 24 million suffer from Asthma. Therefore, improve fresh air access inside with a properly functioning AC unit.
Dangers of Overheating
Protecting from heat exhaustion can also improve your overall health. Hyperthermia should not be taken lightly in times such as this, so ensure you have a comfortable temperature maintained. Experts from the University of Missouri advocate keeping your thermostat to 78° F or above in the summer months.
The dangers of overheating are as follows:
- Heat Stroke
- Dehydration
- Organ Failure
- Death
Contact Conditioned Air Systems Today.
Address air problem? Schedule that AC Repair today. Whether it be electrical or mold in a current and broken motor of an AC system. Be sure to address insufficient airflow too, as well as make sure your clogged air filter is fresh.
FAQ
Here are some frequently asked questions regarding air conditioners and their repair services:
- How often should I service my AC unit?
It’s generally recommended to have your AC unit serviced at least once a year. Regular maintenance service can help identify potential issues early and extend the lifespan of your unit. - What are the signs of a refrigerant leak?
Signs of a refrigerant leak include warm air blowing from the vents, hissing or bubbling noises, ice buildup on the coils, and a sudden increase in energy bills. A refrigerant leak needs immediate attention from a professional HVAC technician. - Can I replace the air filter myself?
Yes, replacing the air filter is a simple task that homeowners can do themselves. It’s recommended to replace the air filter every 1-3 months, depending on usage and air quality. - Why is my AC unit making strange noises?
Strange noises such as banging, grinding, or screeching can indicate mechanical issues within the AC unit. These noises should be inspected by a professional to prevent further damage and costly repairs. - What should I do if my AC unit is blowing warm air?
If your AC unit is blowing warm air, first check the thermostat settings and air filter. If the issue persists, it could be due to a refrigerant leak, compressor problem, or other mechanical failure. Contact a trained HVAC technician for diagnosis and repair. - How long does an AC unit typically last?
With proper maintenance, an AC unit can last anywhere from 10 to 15 years. Regular servicing, timely repairs, and efficient usage can help extend the lifespan of your AC unit. - Is it worth repairing an old AC unit, or should I replace it?
The decision to repair or replace an old AC unit depends on factors such as the unit’s age, repair costs, and energy efficiency. If the unit is more than 10 years old and requires frequent repairs, it may be more cost-effective to replace it with a new, energy-efficient model.
Stay Ahead of AC Problems
Staying cool and comfortable during the summer starts with paying attention to the warning signs your air conditioner might need repairs. Catching small issues early can help you avoid major breakdowns, costly repairs, or even a full system replacement. By recognizing the common signs of trouble and scheduling timely maintenance, you can extend the life of your unit, improve efficiency, and stay ahead of the heat.
