During the hot summer months, air conditioning is essential for modern life. However, like any other mechanical system, AC units can be prone to malfunctioning. It is important to know the signs of potential AC problems early on. Here are the most common signs that AC repair is required.
Unusual Noises
It’s not uncommon for an AC or heating unit to make strange noises when you switch from one to the other. However, grinding, squeaking, rattling, or humming noises can indicate various issues with the system. Grinding noises might indicate that the bearings within the motor are worn and need to be replaced, while a rattling sound could mean you have a loose part in your system. If you hear a high-pitched humming noise, the fan belt may have become loose or worn and needs to be replaced.
Rising Electric Bills
An unusually high energy bill can indicate that your AC unit needs repair. An aging system or one that has not been maintained properly can result in inefficient operation. It could be leaking conditioned air, or the system might not be heating or cooling like it should, causing the fan to run longer to maintain the proper temperature. It could also indicate a faulty thermostat that is causing the system to heat or cool more than desired.
If you notice a significant increase in energy bills not related to seasonal or other changes, having your AC unit inspected and serviced is a good idea. Prompt service and routine maintenance can save you money in the long run.
Moisture in or Around the AC
While an AC unit can create condensation, seeing more water around the unit could indicate a problem. You might notice water stains on the ceiling or walls near the unit or pools of water forming on the ground nearby. If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to call a professional AC repair technician right away before further damage occurs.
Humidity in the Home
High humidity can make your home feel warmer in the summer and colder in the winter. Additionally, high humidity can cause mold growth that could damage your home and belongings. Air conditioners help regulate the level of moisture in the air. If you are experiencing high humidity when the AC is running, it’s best to get it checked out.
Insufficient Airflow
If your home or office feels stuffy and stagnant, it may be because your AC unit isn’t circulating air properly. Various factors, including dirty air filters, failing fans, or problems with the motor can cause this.
If you suspect that your AC unit isn’t providing enough airflow, you should check the air filters. If they’re dirty, replace them with clean ones. Also, check all the vents in your home or office to ensure they’re not blocked. If a vent is covered, clear the area around it so air can flow freely.
If you’ve checked the air filters and vents and there is no problem, the issue may lie with the AC unit itself. In this case, it’s best to give Cool Power LLC a call. Our technicians will be able to diagnose the problem and get your AC unit back up and running smoothly.
Unit Is Frequently Turning On and Off
If your AC unit is frequently turning on and off, which is called short cycling, it could indicate that repair is needed. This can be caused by factors such as an improperly sized unit or a problem with the thermostat. Our technicians can quickly diagnose the problem and provide you with a solution.
Uneven Cooling
Several factors can cause uneven cooling, including a dirty air filter, blockages in the ductwork, problems with the blowers or fans, or a problem with the evaporator coil. If you notice that some rooms in your home are cooler than others or that your AC unit is constantly running without adequately cooling your home, it’s time to call a professional for repair.
Unpleasant Odors
Unpleasant odors coming from an AC unit itself or the vents can occur for many reasons. When dirt or grime builds up in the ducts, it can cause unpleasant odors. When moisture builds up, mold and mildew can grow in the unit or ductwork. A refrigerant leak, which will have a chemical smell, is another common cause of unpleasant odors. It is important to address these issues as soon as possible to ensure that these problems do not continue to get worse and damage the system or your health.
Warm Air From the Vents
It is not uncommon for the air released from the vents to be slightly warm when your air conditioner first turns on. However, it should quickly transition to cool air. If the air coming through the vents is still warm, it is likely due to a refrigerant leak, one of the most common causes of an air conditioner not cooling the air effectively. The refrigerant absorbs the heat from the air that flows over the evaporator coil and then transports it outside.
If your air conditioner is not cooling the air to the desired temperature, it could also be due to a malfunctioning thermostat. The thermostat is responsible for detecting the temperature inside your home and sending signals to the AC unit to turn on or off. When the thermostat is not working correctly, it could send erroneous signals to your AC, resulting in the unit blowing out warm air.
A malfunctioning compressor could also cause this problem. The compressor is responsible for moving the refrigerant through the system. If it fails to do its job, the air will not cool efficiently.
A clogged air filter can also impede your AC’s ability to cool the air. Keeping the air filter clean is essential to ensure your AC runs properly.
Aging AC Components
The average lifespan of an air conditioning unit is between 10 and 15 years. If your air conditioning unit is older than this, it is much more likely to require frequent repairs. Keep in mind that how quickly it ages can be affected by several factors. Lack of proper maintenance is the primary cause of a shortened lifespan.
As your air conditioner gets older, it also becomes less energy efficient. You may find that it is not cooling your home as efficiently as it used to or needs to run longer. Even if your AC is still functioning, you may want to consider upgrading to a more efficient model that may save you money on your electric bills.
At Cool Power LLC Ronkonkoma, NY, we are dedicated to keeping your home at a comfortable temperature. We offer HVAC services for heating and cooling systems, including installation, maintenance, and repair. Our experienced technicians are available to identify and solve any AC-related issues. To make sure that your AC and heating system runs great year-round, we offer a no-hassle maintenance agreement. We’re available 24/7 for emergency repairs and can offer installation financing on approved credit when it comes time for a new system. Call us at Cool Power LLC today to schedule an appointment or learn more about our services.
