A properly working air conditioning system is vital to your family’s health and comfort. Regular maintenance and air condition repair is the best way to keep your AC working no matter how hot the temperature gets outside. Don’t ignore the warning signs. Delaying minor repairs now could lead to more costly breakdowns in the future.
Signs You Need AC Repair
The AC Blows Warm Air
If you notice the air conditioner is blowing warm air into the house, check the thermostat. Make sure it is in cooling mode with the temperature set lower than the temperature inside the house.
If the thermostat isn’t the problem, warm air could be a sign of a compressor failure or that the airflow is restricted for some reason. Causes of inadequate airflow are typically either a clogged duct system or dirty air filters.
Constant Cycling
The thermostat control in your home and the thermostat inside your AC unit communicate with one another to regulate the temperature. If one or both of the thermostats are malfunctioning, it can cause the air conditioner to cycle off or on regardless of the setting. This type of problem could be a warning of a potentially hazardous electrical issue caused by damaged wires.
High Humidity
An air conditioner doesn’t just cool the air, it also lowers the humidity. Too much humidity can lead to mold and mildew growth inside the home. If you’ve noticed moisture on the walls or signs of mold/mildew growth, your air conditioner could be the problem.
Strange Odors
Musty or moldy smells point to problems in the ductwork. A buildup of dust and other pollutants in the ducting doesn’t just smell bad, it also lowers the indoor air quality as all those irritants are blown through the vents. Moldy smells indicate growth of mold or mildew somewhere in the ductwork or inside the AC unit itself. Both of these issues can lead to health problems and should be repaired as soon as possible.
If there is a burning smell when the AC is on, it might be caused by a burned-out wire. This could present a fire hazard or be a warning of a more serious system breakdown if it’s not addressed.
Loud Noises
Every air conditioner makes a little noise as it cycles on or off. But unusual noises such as grinding, squealing, banging, or scraping, it’s time to call an AC technician. Loud or strange noises may indicate a loose or misaligned belt inside the unit.
Increased Utility Bills
An air conditioner that isn’t performing efficiently uses more energy to do the same job. More energy consumption means bigger utility bills. If you’ve noticed an increase in your energy usage you can’t explain, call an AC contractor to inspect your HVAC system for possible repairs.
The Value of Regular Air Condition Repair
Professional AC contractors recommend having your air conditioner inspected and maintained once a year. Regular maintenance helps to catch problems early and keep your system performing as it should. However, don’t wait for a yearly checkup if you notice any of the listed warning signs of repair. Getting repairs done quickly can save you money and inconvenience in the long run.
