Air conditioning malfunctions always seem to occur at the most inconvenient times. Too often, a faulty or old AC is pushed beyond its capabilities during a hot and balmy day. A properly working air conditioner is important to your family’s comfort and health. Having a working AC is easily handled with regular maintenance. You can avoid costly AC repairs by identifying the small issues early and before they become bigger problems. In other words, become familiar with the 10 signs your air conditioner needs repair or replacement.
1. The System is Blowing Warm Air
Nobody purchases an AC unit for it to sit and do nothing. An air conditioner has a specific job; to keep your family comfortable during the hot and muggy summer months. During the sweltering months of the year, you need your air conditioner to function properly. One sign that it is not working at its best is if it blows out warm air instead of cold air. You’ll need to call an HVAC specialist for assistance when this occurs.
2. AC Thermostat is Not Working
Your air conditioner’s thermostat is the control center of the system. The thermostat communicates with the unit to let it know the amount of cold air it must produce. The thermostat also takes measurements to ensure the AC is doing its job. If your air conditioning unit runs for small periods before shutting itself off, or if it doesn’t turn on, this can indicate that the thermostat is not measuring the system’s output temperatures correctly. A trained HVAC specialist should come and examine the unit due to the complex electrical components involved.
3. A Little Air Blows Out of the Vents
While you may feel cool air when you turn your air conditioner on, it will have difficulty circulating throughout the room if it’s coming out weakly. In many cases, weak airflow indicates a failing compressor but can also be a problem with the ducts. Due to the uncertainty of this issue, it is best to contact an HVAC technician for a tune-up.
4. Loud Noise Inside the Unit
If you hear grinding, squealing, or scraping while the AC is on, there could be a problem with a belt moving out of place inside the unit. Contact an HVAC expert as soon as possible to avoid costly damage to the remainder of the unit.
5. Strange Odors When Turned On
An air conditioner should never smell bad. If it does, there is a problem. A strong smell indicates a burned-out wire inside the unit, while a musty smell indicates mold somewhere inside the unit. A professional must diagnose this problem ASAP because both instances can cause you and your family to get sick.
6. Humidity Still in Your Home
Aside from keeping your home cool and comfortable, an air conditioner should also reduce the humidity inside your house. The unit likely needs repairs if you notice humidity inside your home while the air conditioner is running.
7. AC Problems Occurring More Often
If your unit needs AC repair service at least 3 or 4 times within a few months, it is time to purchase a replacement AC unit.
8. Freon or Water Leaks
Any moisture leaking in or around your AC system is a problem. Moisture around the unit typically means there is a refrigerant leak. Contact a professional immediately if it is a refrigerant leak because Freon is poisonous. In less serious cases, this moisture might be water from a broken or blocked drain line that typically disposes of condensation. Sometimes, you will notice water leaking out of the HVAC system; other times, ice may develop inside your AC unit on the copper refrigerant lines. Whether it is water or refrigerant leaking, a leak is never good.
9. Rising or High Electric Bill
Another indication that your AC system needs replacement or repair is an energy bill that quickly rises without extra usage. The cause of this problem may be one of many, including a broken thermostat switch, leaks in your system’s ductwork, or the age of the air conditioning unit. If you’re spending more than usual on energy, it’s time to consider a replacement.
10. AC’s Lifespan is Over
If your air conditioning unit is at least ten years old, it is time to shop for a new one. Air conditioners generally do not last more than a decade.
Replacing Your AC with Atlas HVAC Inc.
Keeping your home at a comfortable temperature during summer takes many properly functioning mechanics within your AC unit. Being aware of these 10 signs helps you quickly recognize a problem with your unit to avoid spending an unnecessary amount on repairs. If you experience these 10 signs, contact Atlas HVAC Inc. Trying to handle the repairs yourself can lead to unnecessary costs if anything goes wrong. Our highly skilled technicians can ensure your replacement goes with a hitch. Call us at (877) 452-8527 or visit our website for a free quote.
