Homeowners rely on their air conditioners to provide them with comfort during the hot summer months. Scheduling annual tune-ups for your system helps it to operate optimally. However, problems may occur from time to time. A professional technician should check these problems because if a unit continues running, it will run into further problems, which can be costly to repair. The lifespan of the unit can also be significantly reduced. That is why it is important to schedule an appointment with a licensed technician if you suspect that your AC has run into some problems. The following are some signs to look out for that will indicate your unit needs AC repair services.
1. Bizarre Noises
Many ACs make low-level noises when starting up or shutting down. They may also make some noise during operation because of the compressor. However, loud or unusual noises can indicate problems with your AC. You should be mindful of any strange noises your AC makes. These noises could indicate loose parts within the system, resulting in greater problems. If you hear humming, buzzing, or clicking sounds, ensure you get the system checked immediately. A humming sound, for example, could mean that your fan motor could be having an issue. A loud buzzing noise can indicate loose wiring or a malfunctioning compressor. Keep in mind that this can be a fire hazard and should not be taken lightly. Clicking sounds may indicate a failing thermostat, which requires either recalibration or a replacement.
2. Warm Air
The most important task of your air conditioner is keeping your home cool. If it fails to do that, there is probably an underlying problem. If your AC blows warm air from the vents, it means there is an issue with the compressor or a low refrigerant level. The refrigerant is a chemical compound that absorbs the heat and humidity from your indoor air and expels it outside. Low levels of refrigerant mean that very little heat will be absorbed, making the AC inefficient. Additionally, restricted airflow may contribute to warm air being blown by your AC. Dirty air filters are responsible for restricted airflow. Ensure you clean or replace your air filters at least once every 90 days.
3. Unpleasant Odors
Your AC should not be responsible for any foul odors inside your home. It should clean the air and make it breathable. Therefore, if you smell foul odors and suspect they are coming from your AC unit, consider dealing with the problem before it becomes worse. A burning or foul smell emanating from your AC vents may mean that the wire insulation inside your unit has burned out. A musty smell from the vents may also indicate mold growth inside your unit. Luckily, a quick, professional diagnosis can determine the source of these problems. An experienced technician will then give you a solution to this problem. Sometimes, a technician may recommend placing an ultraviolet lamp inside your unit, which can effectively eliminate microbial growth inside your unit.
4. Increased Utility Bills
Many AC complications are bound to make your unit work harder to maintain a cozy and comfortable environment in your home. This ultimately leads to higher energy bills. Thus, an electricity bill that shoots up without a corresponding increase in how often you run your system may strongly indicate that your unit requires repair. A broken thermostat switch, ductwork leaks, and the system’s age can be some of the contributing factors to higher energy bills. If your unit is older than 15 years, it has a higher chance of being energy inefficient and could be costing you more money. You should closely monitor your power bills to know if something is wrong.
5. Poor Airflow
Cold air might still be blowing from the vents, but you may feel that it is insufficient. This is one of the most common signs that your unit is not working efficiently and that something is blocking airflow inside the ductwork. It could be a sign that the components of your unit are malfunctioning or are wearing out. On the other hand, a clogged filter may be to blame. Because of the uncertainty here, you will need to hire a licensed technician to check the issue.
6. Frequent Cycles
Your AC goes through relatively routine cooling cycles, regardless of the weather. However, if you notice that your unit is shutting off for a few moments and coming right back on, it means there is an underlying issue. While you may expect it to turn on more frequently in the hot summer days, it should not do so constantly. A quick AC tune-up service can help resolve the problem. However, frequent cycles may also signal that you need to replace your system.
7. High Humidity Levels
As mentioned above, the refrigerant inside an AC can absorb humidity from the air and keep the levels optimal. The AC should be able to do this even when there is high humidity outdoors. The ideal relative humidity inside your home should be 30-50%. If it is higher than that, your home may feel stuffy and can encourage mold growth. Because the system should be able to moderate the humidity automatically, you should seek immediate professional assistance if you notice your home has unusually high humidity.
8. The Thermostat Is Not Working
The thermostat acts as the command central for your air conditioner. It dictates to the system how much cool air to generate and takes the measurements to ensure nothing is going wrong. However, if you feel that the reading on the thermostat is higher or lower than the actual temperature in the room, then there is a problem. Furthermore, if your AC fails to turn on or turns on and runs for a short period before shutting off, it may indicate that your thermostat is broken.
9. Water Leaks
Your air conditioner depends on the refrigerant to cool your home, producing condensation as it operates. This liquid should not accumulate or leak into your home. If you find pooled water or an active leak around your AC, it most likely requires repair services. Water leaks can damage your property quickly and result in serious structural problems.
Final Thoughts
The above signs can be a helpful reminder of how to spot issues quickly. If you spot a problem early, you can help prevent an AC replacement altogether. If you notice one or several of the above issues, it is not recommended to try DIY repairs. Leave the work for professionals as a lot can go wrong.
Our Services
If you are a resident of Norcross or the surrounding areas and need an AC repair, call us at Bardi Heating, Cooling & Plumbing and schedule an appointment today. We are a team of experts dedicated to ensuring that your AC runs optimally and gives you comfort. We are also experts in other HVAC-related services, including installations and maintenance. Call us today if you need help with your indoor air quality.
