As the sun’s rays warm up, we’re reminded that the sizzling days of summer are just a whisper away. With that comes the need for a well-functioning air conditioner to keep our homes and offices cool. However, like any other machine, air conditioners are not immune to wear and tear, and there may come a time when your trusty cooling partner may need some repair. Here are seven tell-tale signs that your air conditioning unit might need a professional touch:
1. Insufficient Airflow
Experiencing inadequate airflow often indicates that your air conditioner may not operate optimally, or obstruction might hinder air circulation through your home’s duct system. The culprit could be many issues, ranging from a congested air filter or a malfunctioning motor to more severe problems.
If you frequently encounter the problem of poor airflow in your residence, an energy-recovery ventilator could be a worthwhile investment. This device aids in enhancing your air conditioner’s performance by replacing stale indoor air with fresh outdoor air during each cycle of your system.
Implementing zoning systems could be beneficial for your air conditioner. These systems can guarantee appropriate airflow and cooling capacity precisely where it’s needed the most in your home.
2. High Levels of Humidity
While spring and summer naturally bring about humid weather conditions outside, it’s not something you’d want to endure within the confines of your home. Your air conditioner is designed to regulate these humidity levels for comfort automatically.
When the AC is functioning properly, it maintains an optimal level of humidity, providing comfort and preventing problems related to excessive moisture, such as mold growth or wood warping. If the humidity levels are consistently high, it may indicate a problem with the AC’s dehumidification process. This could be due to issues such as a malfunctioning evaporator coil, clogged drain lines, or a refrigerant leak, all of which reduce the AC’s ability to remove moisture from the air effectively.
However, if your air conditioning system cannot maintain a comfortable moisture level, this could be a sign that it requires repair. A quick diagnosis from a professional can help determine whether your air conditioner just needs a minor adjustment or recalibration or if it’s time to consider installing a whole-house dehumidifier for better indoor climate control.
3. Strange Noises
A certain level of noise is expected from your air conditioner during the start-up and shut-down process. However, if you begin to notice noises that are loud, abrupt, or out of the ordinary, this could be a red flag indicating potential issues with your cooling system.
Sounds such as rattling or buzzing may suggest a part has become loose within the system, whereas whistling or grinding noises could indicate a more serious problem. These types of issues are unlikely to resolve themselves and warrant professional attention.
4. Rising Energy Costs
If you’ve been using the same air conditioner for an extended period, you may have observed a gradual increase in energy expenses. In that case, it may be time to consider repairs or a replacement.
An air conditioner in good working condition is more energy-efficient and less expensive to run than a malfunctioning one, resulting in immediate savings on your energy bills. If your air conditioner persistently uses more energy than expected, investing in a new unit might be more cost-effective before the current one fails entirely.
5. The Appliance is Older than Ten Years
Your air conditioner works tirelessly, especially during the peak of summer, to maintain a comfortable environment within your home. This continuous operation, however, means that air conditioners have a finite life expectancy. While a well-looked-after air conditioner can serve you for up to 15 years, if your unit is a decade old or more, it might be time to consider a replacement.
You can take measures to prolong the life of your AC unit, such as changing the filter routinely and scheduling annual services. But, eventually, it will reach its operational limit. Most units typically last around 10 to 15 years before they need air conditioning service. You can maximize your AC unit’s lifespan before investing in a new one by ensuring regular maintenance and prompt repairs when necessary.
6. Need for Constant Temperature Setting Changes
A telltale sign that your air conditioning unit might require professional repair is the constant need to fiddle with the temperature settings. While making minor alterations occasionally is usual, the persistent need for adjustments indicates an underlying issue.
For example, if you’ve set your air conditioner to 75 degrees, yet the room persistently feels hotter or colder, it could signal to seek the expertise of a professional repair service. Various factors, including a clogged filter or insufficient refrigerant levels, could contribute to this issue. A certified technician can accurately identify the root cause and carry out the necessary repairs.
In the interim, you may experiment with gradually increasing or decreasing the temperature setting to see if it brings about any change. Seek professional advice to understand your options better. A fully operational air conditioner ensures consistent room temperatures and enhances energy efficiency.
7. Unpleasant Smells
When your HVAC system emits foul smells, it’s a signal that you should take immediate action before the issue escalates and becomes more pungent. Luckily, a swift assessment can reveal if your air conditioner requires maintenance and a thorough cleanup or if a more advanced solution is needed.
UV lamps are highly effective in eradicating stubborn microbial growth within your air conditioning unit, which could be a potential source of unpleasant odors. Cleaning your ductwork can help resolve any scent-related problems built up over time in the duct system. This proactive approach ensures your air conditioner continues to function optimally, providing not just cool air but also clean and fresh-smelling air.
Endnote
Know when to call for repairs to ensure your air conditioner keeps your space comfortable and cool. If you notice any of the signs listed above, don’t delay getting assistance from a professional air conditioner service, it could save you thousands in costly repairs in the future. Air conditioner repair may seem inconvenient, but it can help keep your home or business comfortable all summer. Don’t put off having your air conditioner system checked out, call a certified expert today and they’ll inspect and maintain your system for maximum efficiency all summer.
