It usually doesn’t take an expert to tell you something is wrong with your air conditioning system when you don’t feel cold air in your home. However, it will take a professional HVAC technician to diagnose the cause and provide reliable AC repair.
In some cases, top HVAC experts serving Houston, Texas can quickly get things back up and running right. But other times with an older air conditioning unit, you may be better off with an AC replacement. A trained HVAC specialist can help you decide what might be best in your situation. They will know what to look for and have all the necessary tools to make repairs that get things running right again.
Generally, air conditioner problems involve either a lack of proper cooling, limited air flow, or it simply won’t turn on at all. The graphic below shows what could be causing these air conditioning problems in your home.
Naturally, these air conditioning problems always seem to happen at the worst possible time. When it’s the hottest day of the year, you don’t want to be stuck sweating it out. But is it your imagination, or is something really wrong? Here are the signs your air conditioner needs repair to start cooling today. To see other energy saving infographics visit this link from energy.gov.
Your Air Conditioner Is Blowing Warm Air
Your AC system was installed in your home to keep you and your family cool and comfortable during humid and hot weather days. If it’s running but you feel warm air blowing out, you will first want to check your AC thermostat to make sure it hasn’t accidentally been set to heat. But if it’s on the cool setting, you will want to call an HVAC repair company for AC repair service.
Thermostat Is Not Working
The AC thermostat serves as the command center for your AC unit. The thermostat communicates with this machinery to let it know how much cold air to make while taking measurements of the temperatures.
If you notice that your air conditioning unit only runs for a short time before it shuts off, or it simply won’t turn on at all, it may be the thermostat. Regardless, you will want to have an HVAC technician examine the electrical components to determine the source of the problem.
Low Air Flow
With a working AC, you will enjoy cool air blowing out of your vents at the proper strength. Weak air flow is a warning sign that something is wrong with your HVAC system. It’s most likely the compressor or a problem with leaky ductwork.
Loud Noises Inside Your AC Unit
Unusual sounds such as grinding, scraping, or squealing are certainly a sign of an air conditioning problem. While air conditioners make some noise while they’re operating, they are mostly ambient. Strange sounds that clunk and bang are not normal, and are likely due to a belt being out of place.
Strange Odors When AC System Turns On
Air conditioners shouldn’t create unpleasant odors when they’re running. If your air conditioner is releasing a strong scent, there could be a burned out wire inside of it or burned out wire insulation.
If you notice a musty smell, it may be due to mold inside your air conditioner or the ducts. Have a professional immediately come out for AC repair service as a situation like this is extremely problematic.
Indoor Humidity Issues
Your AC system is designed so that the air maintains a low humidity climate inside your home. When not enough humidity is removed by your AC unit, it’s a sign something is wrong.
One of the reasons you have an air conditioner isn’t just to keep things cool. It controls the humidity inside your home. The ideal level of indoor humidity is between 30 to 50 percent. Anything higher than this can leave you feeling uncomfortable and encourage mold growth while too low humidity can irritate eyes and sinuses.
You Notice Water Leaking Around Your AC Unit
Moisture leaking around your air conditioner is a major situation you’ll want to have repaired immediately. What looks like water leaks could be a refrigerant leak. Because the refrigerant is harmful to your family’s health, don’t leave anything to chance if you think it could be a refrigerant leak.
Water leaks may also be a sign of a broken or blocked tube in the condensation line, or it could be from ice that has formed on your copper refrigerant lines located outside your compressor. Regardless, any type of water leaking around your air conditioner means it needs professional repair.
Problems With Your HVAC System Happen More Often
If your AC unit keeps needing repairs made several times over the course of a few months, it may simply be getting old. Blowing out hot air, electrical issues, duct leakage, and even when you hear grinding can chip away at your savings. It may be more prudent to get a new unit. Air conditioners generally last for a lifespan of about 10 years, so if your AC unit is approaching that age, it may be time for a new AC.
High Energy Bills
When your energy bill gets higher and you haven’t changed the way you use your air conditioning, take it as a warning sign. It could be something as simple as a clogged air filter, or it could indicate duct issues, thermostat problems, or the old age of your unit.
Recognize These AC Warning Signs to Avoid Unnecessary Costs
For air conditioning units that are approaching 10 years of age, you may be better off getting a replacement. If you’ve been noticing these signs and making lots of repairs, it’s time to start shopping around for a new air conditioner.
Remember, keeping up with your AC maintenance is the best way to make your air conditioning last and avoid making lots of repairs. Maintenance keeps it running efficiently too.
For maintenance, replacement, or air conditioner repair in Houston, TX, House Pro is the company to count on for all your AC needs. Call today if you need AC repairs and get back to feeling cool!
