Signs Your AC Needs Repairs

As we approach the summer months, it is time to start checking your air conditioning system. The summer brings unforgiving heat that can make life indoors miserable. Your air conditioner helps regulate the temperature indoors and makes it comfortable to be inside. Over time, your components can break down and get worn out, making it necessary to perform repairs. In this blog post, we will cover some signs that your air conditioning system is not performing optimally and may need repairs. 

Insufficient Cooling: The easiest way to know that your air conditioning system needs to be fixed is that your home or business is not getting cool enough. Your AC should be able to cool all areas of your property and reach the desired temperature. If it is not cooling enough, you have an issue. Contact your local HVAC service to schedule an inspection and repair appointment.

Weak Airflow: Restricted airflow is a common issue with air conditioning systems. Limited airflow prevents all areas from being cooled efficiently and increases your energy consumption. If you notice little airflow coming out of your vents, you likely have a filter or vent clog.

Strange Noises: All air conditioners make noise during operation. However, if you notice unusual noises like grinding or squealing, that’s a concern. You should have a professional inspection performed to determine the cause and get it repaired immediately.

Foul Odors: Always trust your sense of smell. If something smells strange, you should be concerned. If you smell a musty or moldy smell, you may have mold or mildew in your vents. A burning smell can indicate an electrical issue. Be sure to have any smells thoroughly investigated and addressed quickly.

Frequent Cycling On and Off: If your AC unit is constantly cycling on and off, it could be a sign of an underlying problem. This issue, known as short cycling, can be caused by a variety of factors, including a malfunctioning thermostat, a refrigerant leak, or an oversized AC unit. Short cycling not only compromises your comfort but also puts unnecessary strain on your system, potentially leading to increased energy consumption and premature wear and tear.

High Energy Bills: Of course your energy bills will increase with the increased usage in the summer heat. However, if you are experiencing huge spikes compared to previous summer bills, something is amiss. You have an issue that is causing your air conditioning to not run at peak levels and thus you’re wasting extra energy to cool your property.

Water Leaks or Moisture Buildup: Water leaks or excessive moisture around your AC unit are signs of a problem that requires attention. It could be due to a clogged condensate drain line, a refrigerant leak, or a malfunctioning component. Ignoring water leaks can lead to water damage, mold growth, and further damage to your AC system.

Age of the System: As your unit gets older, it will need more routine maintenance to perform optimally. If your air conditioning system is more than 10 years old, you should get it serviced at least once a year and consider replacement as they are not as efficient as they reach the 10–15-year range.

Lack of Maintenance: When a unit is not properly maintained, it puts added stress on the components which causes them to deteriorate more quickly. If you cannot remember the last time you had maintenance performed on your unit, you likely are need repairs. 

Uneven Cooling: If you notice significant temperature differences between rooms or areas of your home, it could indicate an issue with your AC system. Uneven cooling can be caused by ductwork problems, improper insulation, or a malfunctioning thermostat. A professional AC technician can assess your system and recommend the necessary repairs to ensure consistent and balanced cooling throughout your home.