During the summer heat, you rely on a functioning air conditioning system to keep your home cool and comfortable. When something starts to go wrong, you will want to get it repaired as soon as possible. Recognizing the signs that your AC needs a visit from a technician can help prevent small issues from turning into costly repairs or complete system failures. Here are some of the most common indicators that your AC system might need professional attention.
Insufficient Cooling
Problems with the cooling are one of the biggest indicators that something could be wrong. If your AC is running but taking a long time to get your home to the desired temperature, it could be due to several underlying issues. While you might be worried, there could be a simple answer to this issue. You might just have a dirty filter. A clogged or dirty air filter restricts airflow. In turn, that causes the system to work harder and reduce its cooling efficiency.
Many times, these systems could have a refrigerant leak. This substance absorbs heat from your home and releases it outside. When there is a leak, your AC will struggle to cool the air. Another problem could be with the compressor. This component is responsible for circulating refrigerant throughout the system. When it malfunctions, the AC might blow warm air instead of cold.
Sometimes, the problem is not with the AC but with the thermostat. If the thermostat is not reading the temperature correctly or not working at all, it could prevent the system from cooling your home.
Weak Airflow
Reduced airflow is another sign that your AC may need a repair. If the air coming from the vents does not have a strong flow, there could be several reasons. This could also be caused by a dirty air filter, so remember to change it at least every three months. It could also be caused by a blocked intake vent or blocked registers. Make sure these are all free of obstructions. If these solutions do not fix the problem, you might have issues with the blower motor. This part pushes air through the ducts and into your home. When it fails, you may notice weak airflow.
Strange Noises
While an AC system will occasionally hum, you should never hear unusual noises like grinding, squealing, or banging. If that is the case, it is time to call a professional. Grinding sounds could indicate an issue with the motor bearings or other internal components. You could have a problem with a misaligned or worn-out fan belt if you hear a squeal or squeak. Clunking noises could indicate something is broken, such as a piston or connecting rod.
Strange Smells
Your AC should not emit any odors. If you notice strange or foul smells when your system is running, there is something wrong with your unit. A musty smell often suggests the presence of mold or mildew in the system. This can happen when there is a clogged drain line or excess moisture.
Burning smells are always a concern. You might have electrical issues, such as a wiring problem or an overheated motor, which requires immediate attention.
High Humidity Levels
An air conditioner not only cools the air but also removes humidity from the home. If your house feels more humid than usual, even when the AC is running, it could indicate a problem. In some cases, it might be an issue with the refrigerant. Any leaks can affect the system’s ability to remove moisture from the air.
You might have drainage issues. The system’s condensate drain could be clogged, preventing the proper removal of humidity. Sometimes, you might not have the proper size unit for your home. If the AC unit is too big or small, it can have trouble removing the humidity.
Water Leaks
Refrigerant leaks are not the only problems that could develop with your AC unit. Water leaks are often a major sign that something is wrong. While a system produces condensation as part of its normal operation, it can safely drain it outside your home. If you notice water pooling, it could be a clogged drain line. Debris or other buildup can cause water to back up and overflow.
Another cause could be that your evaporator coil is frozen. When that happens, water can drip as the ice melts. This occurs when there are low refrigerant levels or poor airflow. If it is a new unit, your system might not have been installed correctly. As a result, the drainage system has developed leaks.
Frequent Cycling
Your AC should operate in cycles. A normal system will run for 10 to 20 minutes, two or three times an hour, depending on how hot it is outside. However, when you notice constant cycling, there might be an underlying problem. One issue could be a malfunctioning thermostat. If it is not reading the temperature correctly, that might cause the AC to turn on and off too frequently.
Another problem could be an oversized unit. When the AC unit is too large for your home, it will cool the space quickly and then shut off, only to turn on again shortly after. This can lead to increased wear and tear on the system. Along with that, your technician might want to check the refrigerant levels. Low fluid can cause the system to short cycle as it struggles to maintain the set temperature.
System Fails to Start
If your AC fails to start, you know something is wrong. However, don’t panic. These problems can sometimes be easy to fix. Sometimes, it is tied to thermostat issues. If the thermostat is malfunctioning or has dead batteries, that can prevent the system from turning on.
On the other hand, you could have a few serious issues. Many times, this can happen due to electrical problems. A blown fuse, tripped circuit breaker, or damaged wiring could prevent the AC from starting. Compressor failure is another concern. The compressor is the heart of your system. If it fails, the entire unit will not turn on.
High Energy Bills
A sudden spike in your energy bills could indicate a problem. In many cases, your AC could be the culprit. An inefficient or malfunctioning system will use more energy to achieve the same level of cooling, leading to higher costs.
The most common reason for this problem is a dirty filter or refrigerant leak. However, you could have worn-out parts. Aging components, such as the blower motor or compressor, might require more energy to operate as they wear out.
You will want a trained and skilled technician to inspect your system in all of these cases. While some problems are easy fixes, many require a professional’s help.
If you notice any of these signs or have another air conditioning problem, Evergreen Heating & Air LLC can help in the Mooresville, NC area. We have experience working with all types of air conditioners, including commercial HVAC units and mini splits. We also offer duct replacement, air purification services, and dryer vent cleaning. Contact our team at Evergreen Heating & Air LLC to schedule an appointment for AC repair.
