Does Your AC Need Repair? 5 Signs to Watch Out For

Many homeowners assume that their air conditioners are fine as long as they run. But, AC problems often go unnoticed and cause extensive damage that costs a lot of money to fix. Check out five signs that indicate the need for AC repair.

An AC in good working condition is among the most dependable household equipment. But, over time, you may notice your unit no longer cools your home as before, especially if the house has cold and hot spots.

The causes of insufficient cooling can be as simple as a dirty filter or an incorrectly set thermostat. A blocked condenser unit is another possible cause of uneven cooling. Check for debris in the exterior unit's coils, and rinse and vacuum any grass clippings and dirt to facilitate air movement. Other causes of uneven cooling, like refrigerant leaks from cracks in the AC's connections and joints, require the attention of an AC professional.

If you installed the AC yourself or consulted an untrained technician, you may have an undersized unit. In this case, an experienced AC specialist recommends the right AC size for your cooling needs.

Weak airflow from AC vents is often a cause for concern, as it can signal inefficiency or blockage. If you keep your AC on its highest setting, but the airflow is still poor, your cooling system likely needs professional service.

The problem may be dirty vents or ducts, which professional cleaning can quickly fix. In other cases, the issue is much more complex, such as leaky ducts or closed damper valves. Your AC expert can also help you design a zoning system to ensure cooling gets to where you require it.

Unusual sounds from your AC may indicate loose parts or another serious problem. You can ascertain the issue from the kind of noise that your unit produces. For example, whirring noises often signify mechanical problems with the condenser fan motor or a broken belt. Broken parts in the compressor typically make banging noises that can unsettle people in their home.

If you hear a buzzing noise, your AC technician will examine various AC components, including the outdoor fan motor, condenser coil, and fan blades. Out-of-balance and loose AC parts are often the leading cause of unusual AC sounds, and an AC professional quickly tightens and replaces worn-out components to restore your unit's proper function.

A persisting odor from your AC indicates your unit needs professional service. If you detect a musty smell, your system may have mildew and mold, which trigger respiratory problems among household members.

A burning smell is another cause of concern, as it can indicate an electrical wiring problem or a mechanical issue with the compressor or fan motor. If you can't find the source of an exhaust smell, let an AC expert check for leaking engine fluids or any other issue.

Many homeowners expect energy bills to increase over the summer. However, a sudden spike and soaring utility bills may indicate silent issues with your AC.

If your AC has malfunctioning parts, it works harder than usual to compensate and consumes more energy. Schedule professional AC services if you have already replaced the air filter and checked the outdoor condenser unit for clogs.

The additional strain also wears out your AC, and you may need to replace the unit earlier than you have to. A heating and cooling professional may also recommend a new, energy-efficient system to save you money in the long term.

AC problems often creep up on homeowners and interrupt summer activities. Thus, keep an eye out for the above AC issues that indicate the need for immediate service. Contact us today at A-1 Finchum Heating & Cooling for reliable solutions to AC problems.